Chemical Peels
Allentown, PA
 As you get older, your skin begins to change. In addition to natural changes in your skin, environmental factors, including the sun, hard winds, and cold temperatures, can also contribute to the aging process. These factors can accelerate it, causing you to appear many years older than you are. At Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we can help to restore a more youthful appearance to your skin, and your facial appearance, with a chemical peel.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is exactly what it sounds like. Chemicals are used to peel away layers of skin to eliminate skin imperfections. They are a specifically formulated solution that is applied to the skin that aids in the rapid regeneration of skin cells. Shedding dead skin cells, removing the top layers, not only removes imperfections but also helps to increase the production of collagen and elastin in your skin. The results are softer, smoother, more radiant, younger-looking skin.
What Types of Chemical Peels Are There?
There are a few different types of chemical peels available. Different types help to achieve different results. Before undergoing your procedure, a consultation will allow us to determine the best type of chemical peel for you. Types of chemical peels include:| • |
Mild. This is the most common type of chemical peel and often uses glycolic acid. It is a natural chemical peel that comes from sugar cane. Glycolic acid is applied to the skin and left on for a predetermined amount of time. It penetrates the skin to break the bonds that hold the layers together. Because the treatment is so mild, several treatments may be needed to achieve the desired results.
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Medium. Medium chemical peels typically involve the use of AHA or alpha-hydroxy acids. These are also known as fruit acids. AHA peels are applied to the skin and left on for a specified amount of time before being neutralized with water. These treatments are effective for smoothing skin and evening tone.
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Deep. Deep peels are incredibly strong. Phenol peels are one of the most common types of deep peel. They provide the most drastic results but also require the longest recovery time. However, the results often last the longest. |
What Can a Chemical Peel Correct?
Chemical peels can be used to correct some different issues including:| • |
Sun damage.
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Uneven skin tone.
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Uneven texture.
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Acne scars.
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Age spots.
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Fine lines and wrinkles. |
Issues Chemical Peels Cannot Fix
While chemical peels can correct some different issues, there are also some issues that it cannot fix, including:| • |
Deep lines and wrinkles.
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Loose, sagging skin.
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Broken capillaries.
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Large pores.
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Deep scars. |
Is There Downtime With Chemical Peels?
There is some downtime associated with chemical peels. The downtime you can expect depends upon the type of chemical peel that you receive. Mild chemical peels often have a downtime of a few days to a week. Mild chemical peels often require ten days to two weeks. Deep chemical peels require the longest downtime, which can last as long as three months. During your downtime, you can expect redness and shedding. As you heal, healthier, more beautiful skin begins to appear.
If you are interested in learning more about chemical peels, and finding out if a chemical peel is right for you, call Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at (610) 435-6161 today. |
