Classic treatments like chemical peels were eclipsed by new skin-resurfacing lasers at the turn of the century, however, they have made a come-back now, and more and more people are preferring them, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. In fact, according to reports, nearly 1.4 million chemical peels were done in the United States in the year 2017.
The reason why top Skin specialist in Karachi prefer these classic treatments for their patients is that these can deliver even better skin benefits than the high tech devices like laser. If the results of laser and chemical peels are observed side by side, then chemical peels give more impressive results in just one sitting, with almost one-third the cost of laser therapy.
According to assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC, Jeannette Graf, the goal of chemical peels now is to infuse the skin with enriching ingredients that work on diminishing the fine lines, and building collagen, rather than leaving the skin raw. In contrast, chemical peels of the 90s left the skin raw and were a tad painful.
Precautions of a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is best done at the hands of an expert. Results of a chemical peel are varied and dependent on the technique of the handler. If done improperly, it can end up doing more harm than good.
Before the chemical peel, you doctor will take a thorough medical history, and examine your skin. Your healthcare provider will then determine what peel will work best for your skin, according to its thickness, tone and concerns. For further details
Additionally, your doctor might prescribe antiviral medication before the treatment to ward off any subsequent viral infection. To help with the healing, your doctor might also recommend that you start using a retinoid cream. Similarly, a bleaching agent would be recommended either before or after the procedure to reduce the risk of side effects.
What is the Procedure?
A chemical peel is done at the office of the healthcare provider as an outpatient procedure. Before the peeling process stats, the face is cleaned and the eyes and hair covered with ointment, tape or goggles. Pain medications are not usually given unless it’s a deep peel, for which a sedative is given along with a numbing cream.
During a light peel, chemical solution, typically salicylic or glycolic acid is applied to the skin using gauze, cotton ball or a brush. While the solution is on your skin, it will begin to whiten and there will be a mild stinging sensation. Thereafter, the chemical is washed off with a neutralizing solution.
During a medium peel, trichloroacetic acid is sometimes combined with glycolic acid to increase its potency. After application on the skin, the doctor will apply cool compresses on the skin to soothe it. There is no need of a neutralizing solution.
For a deep peel, its better to go to the best Skin specialist in Karachi, as it should be done by an experienced practitioner. During this procedure an IV is attached to your arm, and you are given fluids and your heart rate is monitored. Carbolic acid is then applied to your skin; the treated skin turns gray or white. This procedure is completed in 15-minutes intervals to limit the exposure to carbolic acid. The entire procedure takes about 90 minutes.
