ANSWERS TO MOST COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT CHEMICAL PEELS

1. WHAT IS A CHEMICAL PEEL?
ANSWER: A chemical peel is the process of placing a low strength acid on the skin which results in peeling of the skin over the next several days. A chemical peel can be used to treat sun related changes of the skin that result in premature aging including fine wrinkles, blemishes, dark spots and pre-cancers. After the peel, the skin in the area treated looks more youthful and “refreshed”. 

2. WILL IT HURT?
ANSWER: Most patients report a stinging or burning sensation soon after the chemical is placed on the skin. This is temporary and may last for 5-10 minutes. Once the procedure is complete you will be given ice packs to place over the treated area that will quickly decrease the burning. If necessary, it is possible to apply a topical anesthetic to the skin prior to the procedure in order to minimize the discomfort from the stinging sensation. Most patients tolerate the procedure well even without the topical anesthetic. 

3. WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF A CHEMICAL PEEL?
ANSWER: Some patients may get temporary darkening of the skin in the areas treated. This is more common in patients with darker skin tones. This risk is minimized by the use of retin-A and a bleaching cream after the procedure. If you are someone who gets cold sores or fever blisters, you may be at risk for a viral infection in the area treated with the chemical peel. This risk is minimized with the use of anti-viral medication before and after the chemical peel. It is very important that these medications are used correctly because if not, a viral infection could result in significant scarring. 

4. WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER THE CHEMICAL PEEL?
ANSWER: When you leave the office after the peel, the area treated will be red with a slight whitish “frost”. You will have a thick layer of ointment covering the area treated as well. Over the next several days your skin will peel like you have had a bad sunburn. Once the peeling has stopped the area treated will remain slightly pink for several more weeks. Usually by three weeks after the procedure the skin in the area treated looks normal.

5. WILL I HAVE TO CARE FOR MY SKIN AT HOME AFTER THE CHEMICAL PEEL?
ANSWER: Yes. You will be given wound care instructions that consist of daily cleansing of the area treated with a non-soaped based cleanser followed by a layer of Vaseline petroleum jelly. This will be continued until your skin stops peeling.

6. IS THE TREATMENT VERY EXPENSIVE, AND WILL MY INSURANCE PAY FOR THE TREATMENT?
ANSWER: The cost of treatment varies per person, and depends on the area being treated and the concentration of the chemical used. This treatment is considered a cosmetic treatment, and is generally not accepted by insurance companies. Therefore, payment by the patient is expected at the time of service.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR TO ARRANGE A CONSULTATION VISIT WITH DR. BAUCOM OR DR, PHARIS, PLEASE CALL 404-943-1996