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What is a Facial Chemical Peel?
Chemical Peel
is a non-surgical procedure that uses a chemical solution to improve
and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged
outer layers. There are various types of chemicals that may be used
for this effect. Dr. Metwally prefers to use Glycolic acid which
belongs to the Alphahyroxy acids (AHAs) since it's a highly
tolerable chemical that carries almost no risk of uneven
pigmentation or blotching like other chemicals. It also requires
less healing time as apposed to stronger chemicals like phenol or
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA). Glycolic acid is helpful for those
individuals with facial blemishes, fine wrinkles, dry skin, active
acne, superficial acne traces and uneven skin pigmentation. In some
cases Dr. Metwally may choose for you a different peel program
according to your condition and goals.
Are You a Good Candidate for a Chemical Peel?
You
would be a good candidate for a chemical peel if you have facial
skin imperfections that don't go deep into your skin. You may have
uneven skin pigmentation, mild acne traces or blemishes. You may
also be interested in facial skin rejuvenation through removing some
fine lines and smoothing out rough skin caused by sun exposure
and/or age. Active acne is also decreased through your chemical peel
treatment. A chemical peel can be performed starting age 21.
Preparing for Your Session
Before your session, Dr. Metwally will perform a complete evaluation
with you. He will examine your facial imperfections and explain to
you the effect of a chemical peel in their treatment. He will tell
you if you are a good candidate for a chemical peel or not. Then if
you are, he will discuss with you your goals and expectations to
fill you in on how you could meet your expectations. If you have a
history of herpes, you should inform Dr. Metwally prior to the
procedure. If a chemical peel is not the appropriate procedure for
your case, Dr. Metwally may recommend to you another skin
refinishing procedure like Dermabrasion.
Duration of the Treatment
It
takes around 10 to 15 minutes for a complete chemical peel session.
In general you will need around 5 to 8 sessions to complete your
treatment according to the imperfections in your facial skin. This
will be decided during your initial consultation with Dr. Metwally
and as your treatment proceeds. The first 2 sessions are generally
performed on the same week, and then the remaining sessions are 1
week apart until the desired effect is reached.
Anesthesia Used
No
anesthesia is needed for AHA peels since they only cause a slight
stinging sensation during application.
During Your Session
During your session a cleansing solution is applied for 2 to 3
minutes. After that the glycolic acid is applied for 2 to 3 minutes.
The 3rd step is applying a neutralizing solution for 2 to 3 minutes.
The final step is the application of a moisturizing cream to
minimize dryness and scaling. Dr. Metwally may ask you to use the
moisturizing cream at home for a few days after your session.
After Your Session
After your session you may feel a stinging sensation. Some redness,
dryness and itch may occur during the first 3 days. In general as
your treatment proceeds these reactions will subside gradually.
According to your skin type and tone, your face will start to peel
usually by the 5th to 7th day and stop pealing by the 8th to 10th
day. You need to wear sun-block whenever exposed to sun.
Seeing Your Result
While seeing the result may vary from one person to the other
according to many factors like skin type and tone, generally the
result of your peel is seen from the 3rd session. You may detect a
healthier glow to your skin at first. And as your treatment
continues, you will start noticing an increasing improvement in the
texture and color of your skin. It is recommended that after you
reach your desired result that you have 1 maintenance session every
6 months to maintain your results. And do make a habit of always
wearing sun-block 20 minutes before sun exposure this will always
protect your skin against all the harms caused by sun exposure.
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