Facial peels treat skin complaints such as ageing, acne, skin discolouration and coarse texture. Facial peels resurface the skin giving softer, smoother texture, decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, stimulate collagen and elastin, and reduce depth of scarring. This procedure particularly appeals to the patient who wants to improve the appearance of their skin but prefers to continue with their usual activities without a recovery period.
Glycolic Acid Peels
The Alpha Hydroxy Acid "Glycolic Peel" is derived from sugar cane and has the smallest molecular structure of the AHA family, and can therefore penetrate into the skin much more effectively than other Alpha Hydroxy Acids. It is not absorbed into the body and will not cause any systemic side effects like chemicals used in other peels.
A gentle glycolic acid peel can be performed with varying percentages of glycolic acid. Glycolic acid loosens the "glue-like" attachments of cellular cement that is characteristic of many skin conditions. After just a few weeks your skin looks brighter, clearer and dry skin become hydrated and smooth. The depth of the resurfacing facial peel is controlled by three factors; the concentration of the solution, the length of time it is applied and the preparation of the skin. It is recommended you commence the Home Care Programme in preparation for a 40% peel, progressing to a 70% peel according to individual requirements. These are only administered by trained medical staff.
Each treatment takes about 30 minutes and costs £75.
Home Care Programme
It is important to appreciate that all individuals who wish to undergo glycolic peels must be on a home care programme, using glycolic acid based products for at least two weeks prior to the first peel and also during the course of peels.
The Home Care Programme will introduce your skin to glycolic acid at much lower percentages than the peels and is an important aspect of the element of success.
The Treatment
- No make up should be applied on the day of the peel. No jewellery should be worn around the neck or ears on the day of the peel.
- Glycolic acid home care products should cease the day prior to and after the peel.
- The skin is cleansed with the appropriate cleansing solution.
- On application of the glycolic acid peel you may experience a mild stinging sensation which normally disappears within one minute.
- The acid peel is left in place for a period of time that will be assessed by your practitioner. This is also dependent on how your skin has reacted to the home care programme and to the amount of peels you have experienced.
Aftercare
- The face may become pink after the solution is applied. There may also be a faint whitish discolouration in some areas. Some individuals may experience more stinging than others - this is normal and will resolve once the peel is washed off. In some instances you may experience some flaking of the skin after your peel - this is normal. Any redness or dehydration, if present, will subside during the first few days post peel.
- Under no circumstances should you pick off any dead skin. To do so may cause pain and possible bleeding.
- Do not use a sun bed or sunbathe for at least a week after the treatment.
Trichloroacetic Acid Peels
The purpose of a TCA facial peel is to cause the even, controlled shedding of several layers of damaged skin cells leaving a new fresh layer of skin with improved texture and colour. The peel consists of the application of one or several layers of medication to your skin to create a controlled chemical burn. For most skin types two peels are needed with a six week interval. Eac.h patients peel programme is tailored to the individual's'skin type and problem. Each treatment takes about 30 minutes and costs £125.
Home Care Programme
All individuals undergoing a TCA peel must prepare their facial skin for at least two weeks prior to the procedure. The twice daily application of alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) will reduce healing time, allow uniform penetration of the peel and decrease the risk of pos~ inflammatory changes.
The Treatment
- Home care products should cease the day prior to and after the peel.
- No make up should be applied on the day of the peel. No jewellery should be worn around the neck or ears on the day of the peel
- Apart from mild stinging there is little or no discomfort
Aftercare
- Immediately following the peel do not wash the treated area for twenty four hours.
- Do not wear jewellery in contact with the face. Do not wear make-up. Avoid, exercise and sweating, and minimise facial expression.
- Over the following four to six days your skin darkens, tightens and then peels leaving a fresh new layer.
- Use Diprobase ointment and reapply everyone to two hours to reduce excessive dryness and possible premature peeling. Do not rub or pick your skins whilst it sheds. Wash with a mild soap-free cleanser mixed to a lather in hands and gently patted over the face. Dry very gently with a soft towel. Reapply Diprobase. Do not swim or use overhead shower on face and avoid hair washing.
- Try to sleep on your back.
- Avoid sun exposure. After the peeling is complete (usually one week), sun protection must be used.
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