Chemical Peel

Chemical peels have been designed to help rejuvenate the skin by removing facial blemishes, acne scars, wrinkles and uneven skin pigmentation. During a chemical peel, doctors will use a chemical solution to remove the outer layers of skin, leaving the face soft, fresh and vibrant.

Chemical peels are often done in conjunction with other facial cosmetic procedures such as a facelift. While they are used to rejuvenate the skin, they will not slow or prevent the effects of aging.

If you are considering a chemical peel, you should contact Dr. Stokes for more information. It is important to discuss your desired goals with your doctor before moving forward, as chemical peels consist of different formulas depending on patient’s individual needs.

There are three main types of chemical peels; depending on your goals, your plastic surgeon will help you decide which type is best for you.

AHA Peels are the most mild form of chemical peels. They use Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic, lactic or fruit acids to brighten the skin through light peels. They are designed to minimize the appearance of fine wrinkles, dryness, acne and uneven pigmentation. For minor skin damage, doctors will mix low concentrations of the AHA acid with a facial wash or cream to be used as part of a daily skin-care regimen to improve the over all texture of the skin.

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is mainly used for medium-depth peels, targeting fine surface wrinkles and more severe skin discoloration. Depending on the goals of the patient, the surgeon may recommend scheduling more than one TCA peel.

Phenol peels are the strongest forms of chemical peels. Phenol acid solutions are used only for deep peels and are designed to treat coarse facial wrinkles, pre-cancerous growths and blotchy, sun-damaged areas.

As with any procedure, there are risks involved with chemical peels that you should discuss with your surgeon before making a decision. Patients will typically experience some degree of redness, irritation and burning after a chemical peel. Patients who undergo TCA peels are advised to stay out of the sun for several months after the procedure.

Phenol peels often result in the loss of the skin’s ability to produce pigment and will, therefore, leave the skin lighter. Patients who have phenol peels are advised not to go in the sun at all as the skin will be much more sensitive. It is important to discuss any history of heart complications with your surgeon prior to the procedure as phenol acid may pose a risk for patients with heart disease.

If you have been thinking about getting a chemical peel to restore a youthful, vibrant look, contact Dr. Stokes to schedule a private consultation. Because there are different types of chemical peels with varying concentration levels, it is important to have a qualified plastic surgeon who is experienced in chemical peels perform the procedure. Dr. Stokes is skilled in chemical peels and will design an individualized plan to obtain your desired goals.