How a chemical peel can improve facial appearance for Washington area patients

Chemical facial peels are becoming increasingly popular for patients in and around the Washington area. This treatment, which may be referred to as dermal peeling or chemical exfoliation, improves the appearance of the skin by encouraging new skin cell turnover. This is done by removing the damaged outer layers of the skin and allowing newer, healthier skin to come forth.

Chemical peels can be used for many medical and cosmetic issues, which may include:

• Sun-damaged skin
• Age spots, liver spots or sun spots
• Acne or acne scarring
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Freckles
• Rough and scaly skin
• Uneven skin pigmentation
• Scarring
• Overall texture and tone

Chemical peels vary in strength. Light chemical peels, medium chemical peels and deep chemical peels may be used depending on the needs of a patient. Dr. Burgess of the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery in the Washington area may recommend chemical peels for patients who want to rejuvenate their face and enjoy vibrant, glowing skin.

The process is rather simple. After patients have been deemed appropriate candidates for a chemical peel and they have decided on the strength, the mixture is made and applied to the skin after the face has been cleansed. Depending on the aggressiveness of the chemical peel, the chemicals are left on the face for a specific period, no longer than about ten minutes. Then, it is washed off and neutralized.

After chemical peels are done, patients will experience some redness, flaking and peeling. The more aggressive peels may require patients to have approximately one week of downtime, while the lighter peels will allow patients to go about their day with little to no recovery. Most redness can be covered with cosmetics. Sunscreen should be used to protect the sensitive skin from the sun’s UV rays and moisturizer may be applied as well.

Patients who visit the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery are advised of post-procedure aftercare to ensure the protection of the new skin and the avoidance of infection or other problems that can occur due to poor management.