A popular procedure that is requested for Dr. Patt is a treatment known as a "chemical peel". A chemical peel can greatly boost the appearance of the skin on the face, hands and neck. This treatment essentially causes damage to the skin in a controlled manner. An expert applies a chemical solution to the skin. This solution then causes the skin to blister and then peel off. Typically, the new skin that emerges is less wrinkled and much smoother than the old skin.
Every skin type needs exfoliation as this helps in keeping the skin functioning normally. In addition, it stops dullness that results from a buildup of dead skin cells. However, it is important to note that there are different kinds of exfoliation that benefit different skin types.
An individual who has dry skin may see better results from microdermabrasion. Someone with a skin type that is oily and more prone to acne would benefit from a chemical peel that contains salicylic.
What Does a Chemical Peel Entail?
Only the epidermal layers of your skin would be affected by a chemical peel. The level of exfoliation that is involved in this procedure is deeper than what can be achieved at home. However, the technique is not so aggressive that it would force any significant downtime after it is done. The peel will get rid of excess oils, dead skin cells and impurities; this will leave the skin looking brighter and feeling smoother.
Preparing for a Chemical Peel
- Between 3 and 5 days before a chemical peel, you will be required to stop the use of any type of exfoliant. This includes any acids, scrubs, retinols or enzymes. This is essential to make sure that there will not be too much sensitivity of the skin on the day the treatment will be done. If the dead skin cells have already been exfoliated away, the peel will not have much of anything to work on. When this happens, the chemical will attack the healthy cells. This could result in skin irritation or even more severe damage.
- Over exposure to the sun can be quite damaging to the skin. The skin should be protected from the sun on a daily basis. However, it is even more important to do so and avoid direct exposure to the sun before doing a peel. It is even more important to avoid sun exposure after the peel. Your skin should be at its healthiest before the peel. This will ensure that it will not be sensitive because if it is, the chemicals could cause skin irritation and further damage.
After the unwanted layers of dead skin cells have been removed, your skin will be at its freshest and in a more natural state. This provides the perfect opportunity to begin a new regime of skin care. Without the barrier of dead skin cells, the product will be able to more easily penetrate the skin. This will allow the products to work more effectively.
A chemical peel could be ideal if skin is in need of rejuvenation. However, it is important to know what the procedure entails and the steps needed to take before getting the peel done.
To schedule a consultation to see if any of our many options for chemical peel treatment are the right option to provide the healthiest, smoothest skin, contact Dr. Patt's Houston office today and get the skin that you deserve!
