Sunday, July 20, 2014

Everything About Chemical Peels San Diego Patients Need To Know

By Coleen Torres


Most people feel self-conscious as their face begins to show the signs of age. Some will choose to undergo cosmetic surgery to "lift" and tighten the skin, while others prefer a less invasive approach. Chemical peels are one such method that can effectively make one appear younger, reducing fine lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. If they are considering chemical peels San Diego clients should first find out what it involves so they can decide if it's for them or not.

This procedure involves applying a solution to the skin which causes it to blister and peel away, revealing fresh, new skin underneath. It is offered in varying levels of intensity, according to the particular formulation of the peeling agent used. Some penetrate deeper than others, it all depends on the area being treated.

A chemical peel can be used on the neck and hands as well as on the face to give them a refreshed look. Besides reducing the appearance of wrinkles, it will also make some scars, age spots, freckles, and other pigmented areas less visible. The skin will look more supple afterwards, however it will be more sensitive to the sun's UV rays, so a broad spectrum sunscreen must be used.

Those with fair complexions are typically the best candidates for this procedure, although people with darker skin can also get good results. It will not however repair structural issues like deep wrinkles or sagging skin, these must be addressed by other means such as a surgical lift or injectable fillers.

Before the peel, the healthcare provider will discuss with the patient what his or her concerns and goals are for the treatment. The doctor will determine the most appropriate depth of the peel, and may prescribe the use of Retin-A or glycolic acid to prepare the skin. An antibiotic may also be prescribed to prevent infection. Patients who have recurring cold sores, or scar easily may be advised against undergoing this treatment.

Peels are performed as an outpatient procedure. The skin will first be cleansed thoroughly to prepare it, and then the peeling agent will be applied. These solutions are acidic in nature, and either one or a combination of them may be used. Since the upper layer of skin is chemically "burned" away, the patient will experience a stinging sensation for several minutes, but this will not last and can be treated with cold compresses and analgesics.

Following the peel, the skin will be tender, reddened, and eventually it will scale, much like the process that occurs after getting a sunburn. Healing times range from three to fourteen days, depending on the solution used. The skin can be protected with bandages at this time. A light peel can be repeated if desired in one to four weeks time, but a deeper one, not only six months to a year later.

Before undergoing a chemical peel, patients must be aware that a certain amount of "down time" will be needed to heal, and at first they may not like what they see in the mirror. Rarely, those who are susceptible to hyper-pigmentation from genetic or hormonal influences may find their skin tone to be a different shade, but this does not happen often.




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