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Chemical PeelThe regenerated skin should be less wrinkled and show less signs of aging, thus achieving the desired anti aging effect. There are several types of chemical peels, including Alpha hydroxy acids, trichloacetic acids, and phenol peels. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), such as glycolic acid, are one of the most popular over-the-counter peels for home use (in mild concentrations). Some manufacturer's studies (on AHA and related Beta Hydroxy Acids) suggest that as long as 6 months treatment may be required for significant anti aging effects to occur (for the lesser concentrations). Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is used as an intermediate to deep peeling agent, and the application of such peeling agents should be administered by a doctor. It should be noticed that many do not recommend administration of concentrations higher than 35% because of the high risk of scarring from such usage. Finally, Phenol is the strongest of the chemical solutions and produces a deep skin peel. Effects of a phenol chemical peel are usually long lasting and improvements in the patient’s skin can be quite dramatic. However, Phenol peels, being a quite dramatic procedure, also carry significant risks. These risks include the fact that Phenol peels may pose a risk for patients with heart problems, may permanently remove facial freckles, may cause permanent skin lightening by reducing the ability to produce pigment, and may require increased protection from the sun for life. On the last point, all chemical peels require very strong SPF sun protection for the healing duration after the procedure, and as noted on the stronger peels, may even require increased sun protection for life. Chemical Peel - StudiesStudy of Phenol-based Chemical Peeling. Vijay Sharma, MD. International Journal of Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Dermatology. Dec 2002, Vol. 4, No. 4 : 299 -304. Comparison of the laser and phenol chemical peel in facial skin resurfacing. Langsdon PR, Milburn M, and Yarber R. Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2000 Oct;126(10):1195-9. Histologic study of dermabrasion and chemical peel in an animal model after pretreatment with Retin-A. Francine L. Vagotis and Scott R. Brundage. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Volume 19, Number 3 / May, 1995, pages 243-246. Butler, Peter E. M. (2001) Quantitative and Qualitative Effects of Chemical Peeling on Photo-Aged Skin: An Experimental Study. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
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