Chemical Peel – Deep

Chemical peels are one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedures performed to rejuvenate the appearance of the skin. Over time, factors such as sun damage, heredity, diet, and repetitive muscle movement contribute to the formation of lines and wrinkles in the face. Additionally, the development of pigmentation irregularities or acne scars can cause skin to lose its smooth, youthful appearance. Often performed on the face, neck, and hands, various types of chemical peels can reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles, scars, and uneven pigmentation, as well as treat pre- cancerous skin lesions.

 

Deep Peel Introduction

Chemical peels are one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedures performed to rejuvenate the appearance of the skin. Over time, factors such as sun damage, heredity, diet, and repetitive muscle movement contribute to the formation of lines and wrinkles in the face. Additionally, the development of pigmentation irregularities or acne scars can cause skin to lose its smooth, youthful appearance. Often performed on the face, neck, and hands, various types of chemical peels can reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles, scars, and uneven pigmentation, as well as treat pre-cancerous skin lesions.

 

Deep Peels

Deep peels generally produce the most dramatic results of any type of chemical peel. Deep peels are usually performed using phenol, which is also known as carbolic acid. Phenol is the strongest acid used to perform a chemical peel. While phenol can be used in its pure form, it may be mixed with water, soap, olive oil, or croton oil to increase the effectiveness of treatment.

 

Although deep peels produce the most dramatic results, the associated risks are generally higher. For example, if not used carefully, phenol can be toxic to the body. There is also an increased risk of scarring as well as sensitivity to the sun. Deep peels permanently lighten the skin; therefore they are not appropriate for individuals with dark complexions. As the strongest chemical peel available, deep peels are an effective method for treating deep, coarse lines, pigmentation abnormalities, deep acne scars, extensive sun damage, blotchiness of the skin, and precancerous skin lesions.

 

Overview of the Skin

The skin is composed of two layers known as the epidermis and dermis. The epidermis, or outer layer of the skin, acts as the skin's primary defense against the environment. As a result, these layers sustain the most damage. The dermis, or innermost layer, is responsible for providing structure and support to the skin.

 

What Causes Skin Damage?

The dermis is comprised primarily of connective tissue, which is made mostly of collagen and elastin fibers. These fibers form a network that provides the skin with structure, support, and elasticity. Over time, the aging process and sun damage cause a decrease in the amount of collagen and elastin fibers. As this network of fibers breaks down, the skin loses its elasticity and becomes more lax. Together, aging, sun damage, and additional factors contribute to wrinkle formation and other changes in appearance.

 

How Do Deep Peels Work?

During a deep peel, a chemical solution is applied to the face. The solution causes trauma, or injury, to the skin's layers. Deep peels penetrate the farthest distance into the skin and therefore cause the most injury. This injury may extend into the papillary or reticular dermis, which is why this type of peel causes the most dramatic results. Similar to exfoliating your skin, the damaged layers of skin will peel away. As part of the healing process, increased cell growth as well as collagen production and reorganization in the dermis will produce new, healthier skin layers, which give the face a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance.