Chemical Peels
You love the sun. And who doesn’t? But after years of sun exposure – intentional or not – your face may be left with rough, dull skin and splotchy, uneven color and tone. These are hallmark and easily recognizable signs of aging. We understand that the countless options available for treating these types of skin concerns can by dizzying, so it’s best to consult with an accredited professional to help educate you on when and why various facial treatments are recommended.
DeFatta Facial Plastics offers several options to help restore your skin, giving you back that fresh, youthful glow. Depending on the condition of your skin and the degree of damage, as well as your desired results, chemical peels and microdermabrasion are effective, minimally invasive ways to do some heavy lifting with your skin rejuvenate. At your consultation appointment, Dr. Robert DeFatta will assess your concerns, perform a detailed examination of your skin, and help you choose the most appropriate option for your age, skin type, and desired results.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
Despite the intimidating name, chemical peels are actually derived from naturally occurring acids found in milk, fruit and other common compounds. They have been a trusted skin restoration technique for years and yield consistent results in the appropriately chosen patient. Chemical peels work by removing the outer layers of damaged skin, allowing the fresh, healthy skin beneath to grow to the surface. Peels are available in several strengths – from light to deep and have increasing depth of penetration into your skin as higher concentrations are used. Dr. DeFatta can individualize the strength of the peel to effectively address your particular skin condition.
What Skin Problems Can a Chemical Peel Address?
Chemical peels can address a variety of skin concerns, including:
- Acne scars
- Age spots
- Aging skin
- Crow’s feet
- Hyperpigmentation/dark spots
- Scars
- Sun-damaged skin
- Wrinkles
Patients with a fairer skin tone are generally better candidates for chemical peels and tend to have less risk for residual dark spots and uneven skin tone after healing. Patients with a history of scarring, recurring cold sores or skin sensitivities from certain medications may not be ideal candidates for a chemical peel. Dr. DeFatta will take a thorough medical history to ensure all the factors are taken into consideration to ensure safe and beautiful results.
What Is Involved with the Procedure and Recovery?
Depending on the depth of the chemical peel planned, the procedure can be performed in our office with minimal discomfort or in a surgery center setting where various types of anesthesia can be administered. The procedure can take ten minutes to an hour to complete. Before your procedure, your face will be thoroughly cleansed to remove naturally occurring oils; this will ensure that the solution penetrates as evenly as possible. The chemical peel is then applied to your face. As the peel begins to work, you may experience a slight stinging sensation.
The recovery after a chemical peel will depend upon its strength and can take between two to fourteen days. Dr. Robert will counsel you on more detailed expectations based on your particular case. An expected and necessary stage in the healing process will take place about two to three days after the procedure when your old, damaged skin begins to flake and peel. This can take between seven to fourteen days. This process must be left alone to take its course and picking can cause scarring. Once complete, your newly rejuvenated skin will be sensitive to the sun for at least two months, so it is recommended that you apply sunscreen and avoid sun exposure as much as possible. Dr. DeFatta will recommend a sunscreen from our customized DeFatta line. He worked for three years with formulators and chemists to construct this skin care line from the purest ingredient forms available. They are all free of fillers and non-active ingredients.
