A chemical peel is a non-invasive technique for restoring wrinkled, blemished, unevenly pigmented, or sundamaged skin, using a chemical solution to peel away the skin’s top layers. The new cells that form during the healing process produce a smoother, tighter, younger-looking skin surface.
Skin Dimensions Day Spa specializes in treatments using a specific Alpha Hydroxy Acid, known as “Glycolic Acid.” Additional chemical peels used at Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C., are: TCA Peels and Phenol Acid Peels.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids – Glycolic Peels
Cleopatra bathed with sour milk to keep her skin soft. Ladies of the French Court used aged wine compresses to keep their skin smooth and blemish-free. Modern science has determined that the fruit acid known as “alpha hydroxyl acid” (AHA) was the key element responsible for benefiting their skin. The AHA in the sour milk is called lactic acid and in the grapes is tartaric acid. After decades of research, scientists have found that the glycolic AHA, which is extracted from sugar cane is actually the most effective AHA for cosmetic skin treatment.
Exfoliation of dead skin cells, nature’s own rejuvenation process, slows with age which may result in fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. Glycolic products can be used for all parts of the body to exfoliate and soften dry skin, smooth the texture and minimize wrinkles. Skin Dimensions provides professional Glycolic Treatments in strengths of 40%, 70% and 99%. To help rejuvenate sundamaged, wrinkled or roughened skin of the forehead, cheeks, nose or other areas of the body, or to help reduce acne, a series of six glycolic treatments at the higher concentrations can be prescribed and received at Skin Dimensions. These treatments area also used in conjunction with acne treatments, chemical resurfacing, laser resurfacing, and cosmetic plastic surgery. Having professional glycolic treatments before and after any resurfacing procedure will help maintain the improvements achieved with the procedure. Skin Dimensions provides professional Glycolic Treatments in strengths of 40%, 70%, and 99% or our advanced non-buffered glycolic peels 30%, 50%, and 70%.
Trichloroacetic acid has been used to perform skin peels for over 30 years. Unlike some other types of peels, TCA peels have the additional advantage of creating a fresh natural appearing complexion while preserving the normal skin color.
Our physicians apply a solution containing TCA to your skin. This is usually associated with 2-3 minutes of an intense stinging sensation. The top layer of damaged skin peels off over a period of several days and exposes a new layer of undamaged skin with a smoother texture and more even color.
TCA peels can be performed on most skin types, but not everyone is a candidate as with any procedure. Risks, though rare, may include scarring. Excellent results can usually be obtained with one peel, although a second TCA peel may be necessary for some skin problems.
Phenol is the strongest of the chemical solutions and produces a deep peel. It is used mainly to treat patients with coarse facial wrinkles, areas of blotchy or damaged skin caused by sun exposure, or pre-cancerous growths. Phenol Peels are performed in our Peoria Ambulatory Surgery Center by our Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.
Results of chemical peels help aid in the reduction of sundamaged skin, natural aging signs, age spots, fine lines and wrinkles.
All cosmetic procedures carry the possibility of risk and uncertainty. Side effects and possible risks of a Phenol or TCA peel include: infection, scarring, tingling, swelling, stubborn redness, inflammation to the area, lighter or darker pigmentation, and breakout of fever blisters or cold sores. It is important to discuss your medical history during your initial consultation. A thorough discussion with your physician and/or esthetician of risks and benefits as well as your expectations will be completed prior to your procedure.
All treatments require an initial consultation. For a consultation appointment with one of our physicians, please call (309)674-7546.
A home care regimen is essential in maintaining optimal results following your chemical peel. Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C. is proud to exclusively offer Skin Dimensions SB line of glycolic products formulated with ultra pure Pharmaceutical Grade, non-buffered glycolic acid to provide maximum efficacy with minimum irritation. This upscale line contains Vitamins A,C,E, Green Tea Extract and Co-Q10 to assist in minimizing free radical skin damage.
These products can be purchased at Skin Dimensions Day Spa, Soderstrom Dermatology Centers, S.C., or through our online store.
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