Chemical peels

Chemical peels

What is it

(Peel - exfoliate) They consist in removing pathological and cosmetic changes located in the epidermis and dermis. Depending on the depth of action, peels can be divided into: superficial - cosmetic exfoliation (e.g. mandelic acid) and those performed by doctors, medium-deep and deep.

Types of peels

Mechanical - MICRODERMABRASION, chemical - ACIDS, physical - CRYOTHERAPY and mixed.

Indications

Symptoms of sun-damaged skin aging: freckles, keratosis, discoloration, spots, wrinkles and seborrhea, dull skin, acne-prone skin, acne scars, shallow wrinkles, stretch marks, burn scars.

Types of acids

They are chemical compounds with various degrees of exfoliating properties. Their action depends on the concentration, pH and time of exposure to the skin.

  • Alpha-hydroxy acids: glycolic, lactic
  • Beta-hydroxy acids; salicylic acid
  • TCA trichloroacetic acid
  • Carbolic (phenol)
  • Vitamin A (retinol)
  • Resorcinol
  • Jessner's solution

How it works

Acids with a higher concentration, used in a doctor's office, have the ability to loosen the connections between skin cells, facilitating water retention, which results in better hydration. The thickness of the stratum corneum is reduced and the skin becomes smoothed. In addition, in the dermis, substances responsible for maintaining the proper tension and density of the skin are activated, including elastin and collagen.

Procedure

Acid in the form of a liquid or gel is applied to washed and dried skin. The application time depends on the type of acid selected and is under the control of a doctor. The doctor then neutralizes the acid and may apply a regenerating cream or moisturizing mask. Depending on the concentration of the acid used, there is a different degree of controlled exfoliation of the epidermis and layers of the dermis. The production of new epidermis and dermis cells takes place "from below", covering the gradually removed tissues (unlike in microdermabrasion), new collagen fibers are formed. The process takes 4-14 days.

Effects

The seborrhea and the level of lubrication of the skin are visibly reduced, and the pores are significantly narrowed. The treatment has a smoothing and tightening effect. It reduces fine lines, lightens discolorations, reduces scars and improves skin tone. The effect lasts long after the treatment.

Are acid peels painful?

Acids in high concentrations cause a strong burning sensation during the treatment, which can be alleviated by turning on a cold air flow. Burning lasts for several minutes.

How often is the procedure performed

In order to achieve the optimal effect, it is recommended to perform a minimum of 3 treatments at intervals of about 2-3 weeks. The procedure takes from 0.5 to 1 hour. The number of treatments and their frequency per full treatment depends on the type of acid used and the effect we want to achieve.

Recommendations after procedure

Immediately after the treatment, you can use creams that accelerate the regeneration of the epidermis. You should also not apply makeup. Keep at least a 2-week interval between the next aesthetic or cosmetic procedure. It is strictly forbidden to sunbathe (sun, solarium) for a period of at least 1 month, as this may lead to discoloration. The basic rule after the treatment is to use protective creams with high sunscreen (UV30,40,50) and moisturize the skin. You should also remember to drink min. 2 liters of fluids daily.

Side Effects

It is a safe procedure with a very low percentage of side effects, which include discoloration and erythema. They are primarily caused by the lack of sunscreen. In addition, immediately after the treatment there is a burning sensation, warmth and "pinching" of the skin, which gradually disappear.

Contraindications

Pregnancy, herpes skin infections, purulent inflammatory lesions, flat warts. Treatment with isotretinoin preparations within the last 6 months. Recurrent streptococcal infections (angina, rheumatism), the presence of fresh scars, treatment with UV rays recently. Burns, keloid tendency. In addition, severe cardiac arrhythmias, epilepsy, porphyria and taking medications that inhibit liver metabolism.