Saturday 26 July 2014

Everything About Chemical Peels San Diego Patients Need To Know

By Coleen Torres


Just about everyone feels unhappy as they start to show signs of aging, especially in the face. Some people opt to undergo a facelift, but not everyone requires such an extreme approach. A chemical peel is a less invasive technique which is often used to minimize fine wrinkles around the mouth, forehead, and eyes in particular. When interested in chemical peels San Diego patients must find out if they are a good candidate for this procedure and what is involved in it.

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.

Besides the face, this technique may also be applied on the neck or hands as well. It not only minimizes fine lines, but it can also improve the appearance of minor scars, freckles, age spots, or other areas of darker pigmentation. The skin will be softer and more youthful looking after the procedure, however a broad spectrum sunscreen must be used as sensitivity to UV rays increases afterwards.

People with lighter colored skin usually obtain the best results from this procedure, although many with a darker complexion have also been pleased with the outcome. Deep creases and sagging cannot be remedied by a chemical peel and will require a different approach such as injectable fillers or a surgical lift.

During the initial consultation, the doctor and patient will discuss what the goals are for the treatment and the most suitable depth for the peel will be determined. Antibiotics may be prescribed prior to the procedure to prevent infection, and in some cases Retin-A or glycolic acid products may be prescribed to help prepare the skin. Patients who suffer from recurring cold sores, or tend to scar easily may be advised not to undergo a peel.

This procedure is done on an outpatient basis at the physician's office The skin will first be thoroughly cleansed, then the peeling agent will be applied. Sometimes one solution will suffice, other times a combination of acid solution are employed. Patients can expect to feel some discomfort, namely a "burning" sensation as the old layer of skin is chemically dissolved to make way for the new one. This stinging feeling can normally be controlled using cold compresses and analgesics.

Following the peel, the skin will look sunburned, and in fact it will respond this way too. Healing times vary depending on the depth of the treatment, but most range between three and fourteen days. Bandages are used to protect the skin. A superficial peel can safely be repeated if desired in one to four weeks, whereas a deeper one cannot be repeated until six to twelve months.

Before deciding to undergo a peel, patients must expect that their initial appearance may be startling, and that it is a procedure that requires a few days of "down time", but in the end, most are quite happy with the results. Rarely, someone will experience a change in skin tone or hyper-pigmentation, but this is usually due to hormonal or genetic predisposition and is not common.




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