Phenol Chemical Peel

Chemical peels are solutions used to reinvigorate your skin's appearance by removing the damaged outer layer to reveal the inner layer, which is newer and uniform in texture. There are different types of chemical peels composed of different formulations that were designed to address varying levels of skin abnormalities.

When people talk about "deep" chemical peels, they are referring to phenol chemical peels. Phenol, also known as carbolic acid, is the strongest chemical peel solution available on the market. Phenol skin peels target individuals with:

• Coarse wrinkles
• Sun damage leading to severe skin blotchiness
• Pre-cancerous growth (keratoses)
• Deep acne scars

Because phenol is a relatively toxic chemical, with exposure to high concentrations leading to considerable health risks, such as corrosion of the mucus membranes, an experienced doctor should use it carefully under a controlled environment. Unlike the other chemical skin peels, phenol requires mild sedation and local anesthetic, and proper cardiac monitoring during the procedure. Generally, phenol peels are performed at a surgery center as an outpatient procedure. The procedure takes approximately one hour, although peels can be performed on isolated areas such as the upper lip. Also, a longer post-operative recuperation (normally 2 weeks) is necessary.

Because of the comparatively high strength of phenol chemical peels compared to other chemical peels, the results are unquestionably superior to the other peels. On the flip side, because of its strength, phenol chemical peels present a greater risk of complications, and inherently more noticeable side effects.

The most consistent side effect of phenol chemical peels is permanent lightening of the skin. Because of this, the procedure is not suggested for individuals with dark skin tones. Other serious side effects are possible including scarring and discomfort, with increased sun sensitivity.

New skin forms within three weeks of treatment, and the skin will be tight and red, with gradual fading to white over the following months. There is no smooth transition from peeled to non-peeled skin, so a clear line of demarcation will exist. Other disadvantages include that your skin will never tan after a deep chemical peel. If you choose to tan the remainder of your body, an even greater discrepancy will exist between your previously peeled and non-peeled skin.

Overall, chemical peeling is generally considered to be a safe procedure in expert hands. The golden rule for chemical peeling is that the greater degree of success comes with a greater depth of peeling. Results of phenol chemical peels can last for decades, and no special care is needed to maintain skin improvements from phenol chemical peels, unlike the regimens required after most other peel methods. The long-term result is ultimately satisfactory and successful.

More information on phenol chemical peels is available through plastic surgeons who use this treatment. Patients interested in receiving a phenol chemical peel should consult a doctor or dermatologist to determine if this course of treatment is appropriate.