Fall is here, which means winter is near. That also means cold winds and a snowy forecast is just around the corner. While you might be shopping around for your new winter coat, keep in mind your face needs attention too! We have a solution – chemical peels! Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin on the face to smooth texture, reduce scarring, and remove blemishes to produce healthy, glowing skin.
There are three types of chemical peels, ranging from mild to strong. Peels can be combined with other procedures such as facelifts for a more youthful look. They may be covered by insurance if they are performed for medical rather than cosmetic reasons.
AHAs are the gentlest of the three types of chemical peel. They smooth and brighten skin by treating fine wrinkles, dryness, uneven pigmentation and acne. AHAs are typically applied once a week, or may be mixed in a milder concentration with a cream or cleanser to be used daily; treatment takes 10 minutes or less.
TCAs are commonly used for medium-depth peeling (though depth is adjustable) to treat fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems, sometimes in combination with AHAs. TCAs are the preferred chemical solution for darker-skinned patients and may be used on the neck and other areas of the body. Multiple treatments may be required, but treatments only last 10-15 minutes and recovery time is short.
Phenol, the strongest chemical peel, treats deeper skin problems such as coarse facial wrinkles, pre-cancerous growths, and areas of blotchy or damaged skin caused by sun exposure, aging or birth-control pills. Phenol is used only on the face. Full-facial treatment can last an hour or two and recovery can take a few months, with possible skin lightening and removal of freckles.
If you are interested in learning more about the types of chemical peels we offer, or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us today: 631-364-0333
