What You Need To Know About Deep Chemical Peels For Severe Skin Problems
Posted on: 17 March 2015
For people who are looking to treat serious sun damage, hide blemishes and even help erase severe wrinkles, then chemical peels might be the answer. While there are different types of chemical peels, the most advanced form is a deep chemical peel, which penetrates the skin the most and can have the most dramatic results. Here is what you need to know about deep chemical peels, their impact on the skin, and the potential risks involved.
Deep Chemical Peel Basics
Like all chemical peels, deep chemical peels actually work by destroying fine layers of the skin in a controlled manner in order to make room for new skin cells to grow. However, deep chemical peels destroy much more skin than other chemical peels. For most deep chemical peels, a chemical known as phenol is used to penetrate and break up the old skin. In fact, a deep chemical peel is the equivalent of a second-degree burn, which is why a highly experienced and qualified dermatologist has to perform this procedure in a safe surgical setting.
Before the Peel
It's important to review your skin type, your unique skin condition, and discuss the impact of a deep peel on your skin with your dermatologist before choosing a deep chemical peel. In many cases, it's recommended to do a test deep peel on one very small portion of your skin in order to see the results.
It's important to follow your dermatologist's instructions before undergoing a deep peel. This will usually mean washing your face twice a day for two to three weeks before the deep peel, proper moisturizing, and use of sunscreen. If you suffer from cold sores, be sure to take antiviral medication to ensure you don't have blemishes around your lips on the day of your deep peel surgery.
The Surgical Procedure
A deep chemical peel is a serious surgical procedure. You will likely be provided a pain reliever or provided with general anesthesia. Your dermatologist, like those at Advanced Dermatology Care, might also provide an IV during the surgery and monitor your heart to ensure your safety. The chemical agent will be allowed to penetrate your skin for as long as your dermatologist think it's necessary to treat your skin problems.
After Surgery
It will likely take three weeks for your skin to grow back, and you will need to take at least two weeks off from school or work to heal properly. Your skin may remain red for up to two months or more. You will need to apply healing lotions and ointments to your skin on a regular basis, check in regularly with your dermatologist, and avoid exposure to the sun. You may also need to take antibiotics to avoid infections of your skin.
After your skin is finished healing, you may have clearer skin with less wrinkles and sun damage.
The Risks Involved
Not everyone is suitable for a deep chemical peel. Deep chemical peels should not be used on those with darker skin, as they can cause changes in pigmenation. Even for people with fairer skin, there can also be a risk of bleaching, although it tends to be slighter.
All people who undergo a deep chemical peel are at risk for scarring, increased sensitivity to light, and redness of the skin that can last for many months. Since the chemical phenol can be toxic in high doses, it's also possible to suffer liver, kidney or heart failure in very rare cases. For most people, only one deep peel can be performed during a lifetime.
Ultimately, deep peels are not for everyone, but they can be of great benefit for those with severe skin problems. Speak with your dermatologist about the pros and cons of this treatment for you.
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