The second tier of chemical peel is the middle level. Also known as Trichloroacetic acid peels, this type of chemical peel is stronger than the first tier of chemical peel. Depending the concentration of Trichloroacetic acid, deeper exfoliation will occur with a higher concentration. Of course too much will permanently damage skin so this chemical peel should be performed by a qualified Pennsylvania Cosmetic Surgeon.

Usually this method is used to fix fine lines and wrinkles and fix blemishes. Like the alpha hydroxy chemical peels, reapplication may be necessary to maintain the new look. Because this acid is a bit more harsh, a few days may be needed to recover from the procedure.

The new skin that is revealed will be very sensitive to the sun so liberal use of sunblock is absolutely necessary.

The third tier of chemical peel is known as a Phenol Peel and the results are evident for a long time. Typically only one treatment is necessary. However, anesthesia is usually required. Because this treatment is the harshest of the three tiers it is also quite painful, carries the most risks, and gives the best looking results. Recovery after the chemical peel can be as long as one month. This procedure is often used to correct more substantial blemishes like deeper wrinkles and skin damage.

The Phenol Peel itself is made up of phenol and croton oil. This oil is said to be the key ingredient in this chemical peel.

While the results of the tier three chemical peel are dramatic – and very tempting, persons with pre-existing medical conditions carry some risks. Pennsylvania Cosmetic Surgery stresses the importance of reviewing your entire medical history with your Pennsylvania Plastic Surgeon and make an educated decision.

In basic terms, a chemical peel is when a substance – in this case chemicals, are applied to the skin’s surface. These chemicals burn away the damaged outer layer of skin and reveal the new, fresher layer of skin underneath.

The procedure of chemical peel has three tiers.

The first tier is the easiest on your skin and involves chemicals known as alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids. Included in this category are lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid to name a few. You have probably heard these terms as these acids are common ingredients in common drugstore acne treatments. And in fact, this type of chemical peel is used to control acne, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, correct uneven skin pigmentation, fix areas of dryness, and help with sun damage.

The downside of alpha and beta hydroxy chemical peel is minor. There may be some level of discomfort such as burning or stinging. Anything containing acid will be irritating to your skin and this is no exception. You may experience some reddened skin, which will most likely be temporary, while your skin heals. Your skin may also be dry.

Because the alpha and beta hydroxy chemical peel is relatively mild, the procedure may need to be repeated a few times before you see the results that you were aiming for.

Should you opt for an alpha hydroxy peel or a beta hydroxy peel? Some tests have shown that beta hydroxy chemical peel penetrates the pore better but the jury is still out on that difference.

Of course, it is best to consult a qualified Pennsylvania cosmetic surgeon before making a decision.

In Pennsylvania Cosmetic Surgery: Chemical Peel Part II we will discuss the next tier of chemical peel.