Chemical Peel is a cosmetic non-surgical procedure that utilizes a chemical solution to improve and revitalize the texture of the skin. Chemical peel is helpful to revitalize lifeless skin, brighten complexion, eliminate fine wrinkles, fade brown spots and other discoloration, make pores appear smaller and smoothen the skin surface by peeling away the skin’s top layers. Chemical peel can be performed on the face, neck, chest, hands, back, arms and legs. Several chemical solutions may be used depending on the patient need. The doctor will work with the patient to determine the specific peel program. The chemical solution is applied to the entire cleaned face or a specific area. At the end of the peel, a thick layer of petroleum jelly is applied to the treated area or cool compresses are used. Before the procedure, the patient may be given a pain reliever and an oral sedative to reduce pain and anxiety. The procedure takes between 15-20 minutes to complete.

Cost of the Procedure

Risks of the Procedure

Chemical peel is normally a very safe non-surgical procedure, but like all medical procedures, there are risks involved. The risks of chemical peel, while rare, include scarring, infection or abnormal pigmentation. Chemical peel can create a leaching effect and the patient may need to wear make-up to match treated and untreated areas. Chemical peel can also activate latent cold sore infections.

Are travel and vacation activities compatible with surgery?

Chemical peel is performed on an outpatient basis and recovery time is very minimal. You can begin regular activities immediately, so your vacation will not be affected. You may experience puffiness and swelling in the face which will subside after several days. You may be given a mild pain medication to relieve any throbbing.

Preparing for the procedure

Several chemical solutions may be used depending on the patient need. The doctor will work with the patient to determine the specific peel program. The chemical solution is applied to the entire cleaned face or a specific area. At the end of the peel, a thick layer of petroleum jelly is applied to the treated area or cool compresses are used. Before the procedure, the patient may be given a pain reliever and an oral sedative to reduce pain and anxiety. The procedure takes between 15-20 minutes to complete.

Planning for my recovery

Recovery from a chemical peel depends greatly on the type of peel that is used. Your face will be very red at first, gradually fading to a pinkish color over the following weeks to months. During this time, it is especially important that you use a sunblock or blotchy, irregular skin coloring may result. Depending on the type of peel, anywhere from immediately to about two weeks after treatment, you may return to work and resume some of your normal activities. Your skin will be healed enough for you to wear makeup.