CHEMICAL PEELS

WHAT ARE CHEMICAL PEELS

Chemical peels are one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures, as Americans undergo millions of them every year. Dr. English performs many types of chemical peels, and is considered a subject matter expert in the Little Rock area. These days, people have an increased interest in slowing down the aging process and maintaining brilliant, glowing skin, which is why chemical peels are becoming increasingly popular. The fact that enhanced results are now possible, thanks to advanced laser or light-based rejuvenation techniques, have made them the go-to choice for a number of people. Before having a chemical peel, allow Dr. English to perform a thorough evaluation and help you choose the treatment plan that is perfect for you.

​

WHAT RESULTS ARE POSSIBLE WITH A CHEMICAL PEEL

A chemical peel may be used to diminish fine lines, particularly those smoker’s lines that appear around the mouth. It may also smooth or decrease wrinkles that are caused by aging, heredity or sun damage. However, severe wrinkles, sagging skin, and bulges are all issues that are not easily resolved through a chemical peel, and should therefore be dealt with through other procedures. Dr. English will discuss chemical peels and any other cosmetic treatments that might be appropriate for you during your one-on-one consultation.

​

Mild scarring and certain types of acne may also be treated with chemical peels. In addition, pigmentation of the skin in the form of sun spots, age spots, liver spots, freckles, blotches, and skin that is dull in texture and color may be improved with chemical peeling.

​

JESSNER PEELS

The Jessner peel is a superior treatment designed to remove superficial layers of skin. It’s one of the most effective light cosmetic peels available. A Jessner peel consists of a mild peeling agent that can be used to lighten areas of hyperpigmentation and to treat aged undamaged skin. The Jessner peel is excellent for all skin types. It smooths and rejuvenates skin, producing beautiful results, and it treats mild to severe acne, discoloration, moderate wrinkling, and sun damage. Peeling the face, neck, hands, and upper chest is also quite effective. 

​

Those with thick, oily, or acne-prone skin fare well with a Jessner peel. Its ability to open clogged sebaceous follicles and decrease oil production allows many people with chronic acne to notice significant healing. A Jessner peel contains salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resorcinol, three ingredients that penetrate deeper layers of the skin while also providing superb exfoliating benefits. This dynamic exfoliation will result in some flaking and/or peeling within three to four days, followed by the appearance of fresher, healthier looking skin in about a week. A Jessner chemical peel can be done in conjunction with a microdermabrasion treatment to get the most out of the peel.

​

PUMPKIN PEEL

Head to Toe Natural Pumpkin and 30% Multi-Fruit Complex Peel, What is does: A 30% formulation of glycolic and lactic acid with an approx. pH 3.2. Formulated to provide deep exfoliation for facial area, allowing acids to effortlessly penetrate clogged pores and assist in cell proliferation. This leaves an immediate glow to your skin.

​

HOW ARE CHEMICAL PEELS PERFORMED?

During chemical peeling, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, causing it to separate, peel off, and allow new skin to regenerate. The new skin is smoother and far less wrinkled than the old skin, and may also be more even in color.

​

Dr. English may perform a superficial, medium, or deep chemical peel on your face, hands, chest, neck, legs, or arms. With a deeper peel, your results will be more dramatic, but your recovery time will be extended as well. 

​

You will receive preparation instructions prior to treatment. These instructions may include halting certain medications or the use of special cleansing creams. Prior to your peel, your skin will be thoroughly cleansed to remove excess dirt and oils. After covering your eyes, a nurse will apply the chemical solution, which may contain salicylic acid, lactic acid, carbolic acid, glycolic acid, or trichloroacetic. The type of damage you are trying to correct will largely determine the formula.

​

During the chemical peel, you may feel slightly warm or hot feelings on your skin. This typically lasts between five and 10 minutes, and is followed by a light stinging sensation. You are more likely to experience intense sensations if you are having a deep peel, in which case medication could be needed to ease your discomfort.

​

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER TREATMENT?

Your skin may feel as though you have just experienced a sunburn. As with a sunburn, you might also experience superficial peeling that can be accompanied by redness and scaling. After a medium or deep peel, you could have blisters on your face or swollen skin. Those blisters may break open, crust over, and peel off in the next one to two weeks. In some cases, surgical tape will be placed on all or part of your treated skin. Your skin will also be more sensitive to sunlight, so you should avoid sun exposure until after you have fully healed. Dr. English might also prescribe other measures as part of your follow-up treatment.