Chemical Peel (Facial Rejuvination)
A chemical peel involves using a special chemical solution to improve the texture of the skin, tighten it and improve fine lines and wrinkles, giving the impression of a brighter, more youthful appearance. Facial peels also improve the complexion by removing fine red and brown marks (sun spots).
Who would benefit from a Chemical Peel?
Most women would benefit from a chemical peel, which may be used on their own or in conjunction with a face lift or eyelid surgery to improve the final result.
What kind of Chemical Peels are there?
The strength of a chemical peel is dependent upon the solution used and its concentration. Light peels are often used by beauticians and nurses to improve the skin texture, however, these peels do little more than exfoliate the skin and do not achieve the reduction of wrinkles seen with deeper peels.
Our Lead Consultant, Vivek, prefers to use a Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel to achieve a safe and long lasting improvement in facial skin quality. TCA can be used in many concentrations, but it is most commonly used for medium-depth peeling. Fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems are commonly treated with TCA.
What is involved?
Patients are given a pain killer to reduce the sting of the peel, before 2-3 coats of the peel are applied: this will sting for a few minutes, however after the treatment you may go home.
There is a peeling of the skin after 5-7 days, much like a sunburn, and after this the skin may appear reddened for 2-3 weeks. However, once the redness has faded the results of the peel will continue to improve for the next few weeks.
Your new facial skin
After your facial peel your skin will look brighter, softer and more even. Make-up will be easier to apply, and time will not have to be spent masking blemishes here. However, your new skin needs protecting, and it is advisable to wear a SPF daily or the results of your peel will gradually fade.
Are Chemical peels safe?
Chemical peels should only be carried out by a doctor trained to use the acids involved: as a Consultant Plastic Surgeon, Vivek has many years of experience in this area and often also uses them in his NHS practice to improve facial acne scarring.
Complications following chemical peels are rare, and normally involve a slight lightening or darkening of the facial skin. Scarring after chemical peel carried out by a trained practitioner is extremely rare.
For more information, please contact us or book a consultation with Vivek from Elanic Cosmetic Surgery in Glasgow.