When you're considering facial peels it's important to remember that there are many different types. Some peels are only very "light", removing the very superficial layers of skin. These "light" peels are excellent for freshening up your complexion and giving your skin that healthy glow without any downtime.
Deeper peels such as the "TCA" peel go much deeper into the skin and remove many more layers. These peels are designed to bring about more significant improvements in the skin but also carry approximately 1 week of downtime. Medium / deep peels should only be performed by an experienced Doctor.
light peels
- Removes dull layers of dead skin
- Mild improvement of pigmentation
- Creating a "glow" type appearance within the skin
- No downtime
- Very little risk of complications
What chemical is used for a light peel?
Light peels are usually performed with Alpha hydroxyl Acid (AHA), which are mild organic acids derived from various sources such as sugar cane, milk, and fruit. The most commonly used are glycolic and lactic acids, which dissolve the lipid bonds that bind together non living skin cells in the outer layer of the skin (stratum conreum). AHA’s also help the living layers of the skin thicken and retain water, thereby “plumping” the skin and decreasing fine wrinkling. A thinner stratum corneum also means improved clarity of the skin, and better absorption of other topical agents, such as “bleaching: creams, retinolds, antioxidants, ect.
Low concentrations of AHA’s are available in a variety of consumer skin care products. Products with a higher concentration (more acidity) are more effective, and are available only from licensed practitioners.
High concentrations of AHA are the basis for light, or “lunchtime” peels, and are often combined with herbal or fruit extracts (“pumpkin peel”, “blueberry peel”, ect.). As the concentration of AHA increases, so does the incidence of side effects such as redness, irritation, blistering and peeling, and increases the likelihood of sun damage and discoloration in patients who do not use sunscreen.
How does it work?
Light chemical peels remove the very superficial layers of skin. By removing these dead layers it will help improve uneven pigmentation and bring about a translucent glow to the skin.
what can you expect during the recovery period?
Although there is no downtime with a light chemical peel, patients can expect some mild flaking of the skin for up to a week following treatment.
HOw often do i need a light peel?
A typical exfoliation regimen for a new patient would consist of daily home use of an alpha-hydroxy lotion for 2 weeks, followed by a light peel or microdermabrasion. Results can be achieved more quickly by utilizing a series of microdermabrasions and/or light peels performed every 2 weeks for a total of 4-6 treatments, with occasional “maintenance” treatments as needed, usually every 3 months.
Are there any complications?
Light peels are a very safe procedure, the risk of any serious complication is extremely rare.
Medium depth peels
- Skin rejuvenation – creating tighter smoother skin with fewer wrinkles.
- Removal of pigmentation.
The procedure involves light sedation. It’s recommended to have a friend pick you up after the procedure.
You will need 5-7 days off work for the procedure to heal. During the time you’ll be required to apply an ointment to keep the skin moist. You’ll also need to sleep on your back and wash the face very gently to prevent premature removal of the scab.
Time – 1 hour
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