Chemical peeling is a cosmetic technique used to improve the appearance of the skin which is typically performed on the face, neck or hands. In this cosmetic treatment, a chemical solution is applied to the skin that causes it to “slightly blister” and will eventually peel off. The new, regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin after a chemical peel. The new skin is also temporarily more sensitive to exposure of the sun. The dermatologists at Jeffrey Klein M.D. & Associates in San Juan Capistrano, use various peeling agents to improve the appearance of our patients skin and are experts in performing multiple types of chemical peels. A thorough evaluation by one of our medical skin care professionals is imperative before embarking upon a chemical peel.
What Can a Chemical Peel Do for You?
Chemical peeling is often used to treat fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth. Wrinkles caused by sun damage, aging and hereditary factors can often be reduced or even eliminated with this cosmetic procedure. However, sags, bulges, and more severe wrinkles do not respond well to peeling and may require other kinds of cosmetic dermatology procedures such as a laser skin treatment, or an injectable cosmetic filler.
Mild scarring and certain types of acne can also be treated with chemical peels. In addition, pigmentation of the skin in the form of sun spots, age spots, liver spots, freckles, splotching due to other conditions, and skin that is dull in texture and color may be improved with chemical peels.
Chemical peels may be combined with laser skin treatment, dermabrasion or cosmetic fillers to achieve effective skin rejuvenation customized to the needs of the individual patient. Areas of sun-damaged, precancerous keratoses or scaling patches of skin may improve after a chemical peel. Following a chemical peel treatment, new skin lesions or patches are less likely to appear. Generally, fair skinned and light haired patients are ideal candidates for chemical peels. Darker skin types may also experience good results from chemical peels, depending upon the type of skin problem encountered.
