Chemical peels may be the perfect solution if you are looking for a minimally invasive treatment to make your skin smoother and more youthful. Chemical peels are medical-grade treatments that can help reduce wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, acne scars, sun damage, and other signs of aging. At In My Own Skin, we offer various chemical peel options tailored to meet your individual needs. Read on to learn more about our chemical peels in Lake Oswego, OR.
How Does a Chemical Peel Work?
Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin to make skin smoother, reduce scarring and remove blemishes. Ranging from mild to strong, there are three types of chemical peels: alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), trichloroacetic acid (TCA), and phenol. The strength of each peel is tailored to the patient. They can also be combined with other procedures, such as facelifts, for additional improvement to the skin. Chemical peels may be covered by insurance if they are performed for medical rather than cosmetic reasons.
Chemical Peel Procedure
During a TCA or phenol peel, the skin is cleansed, and a solution is applied, which may cause a brief stinging sensation. Once it has sat for the recommended amount of time, we will wipe off the solution and apply cooling pads to calm the skin. We finish off with a moisturizer, or, for a phenol peel, we may apply petroleum jelly or waterproof adhesive tape.
AHA peels are milder, so the treatment is a bit different. The skin is cleansed, and the solution is applied, but there is no need for post-peel ointment or covering.
Chemical peels are performed in a plastic surgeon or dermatologist's office or an outpatient surgical center. Anesthesia is not required because TCA and phenol have anesthetic properties, and AHA produces only a slight stinging.
What Is the Aftercare for a Chemical Peel?
After having a chemical peel, you may experience some redness or peeling, which is completely normal and should subside within a week. It is important to protect your skin after treatment by reducing sun exposure and applying sunscreen and lotion regularly. A chemical exposes new skin, and you want to be sure to take good care of it to prevent any damage and keep your skin as healthy as possible; this will help your results to last longer.
Are There Any Side Effects of Chemical Peels?
A phenol or TCA peel can result in tingling or throbbing, reddened skin, a crust or scab, and significant swelling that lasts about a week, depending on the strength of the peel used. With a phenol peel, eyes may be swollen shut at first, and the patient may be put on a liquid diet and advised to keep talking to a minimum. Any tape used is removed after a day or two. AHA peels can cause temporary stinging, redness, irritation, and flaking or crusting. After a chemical peel, the skin must be protected from the sun.
What Are the Benefits of Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels can improve the appearance of wrinkles, acne scarring, sun damage, and age spots. It produces smoother skin with a more even complexion, which can result in a more youthful, glowing appearance. Chemical peels also promote collagen production, which leads to firmer skin with fewer fine lines. Plus, they're minimally invasive procedures with little to no downtime, so you can return to your routine and begin enjoying your results as soon as possible. It can also increase the effectiveness of other skin care products by removing damaged top layers of skin.
Schedule A Consultation Today
For those who want to see visible results without major surgery or recovery time, chemical peels may be a great option. Our board-certified physician, Dr. Elissa Burgess, is experienced in performing aesthetic medical services that leave patients feeling confident in their skin. Contact In My Own Skin today at (503) 699-6464 or fill out our contact form online to learn more about our chemical peels in Lake Oswego, OR.
