Chemical peeling is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin. A chemical solution is applied to the skin which causes it to separate, peel off, and allows new skin to regenerate. The new skin is smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin, and may also be more even in color. There are three basic categories of chemical peels. Each type works differently, and produces different results. Your doctor may choose from the following three types of chemical peel, or he/she may tailor the treatment to the needs of your skin. In general, the stronger the chemical, the deeper the peel, and the more impressive the results. However, the deeper the peel, the more discomfort you're likely to experience and the longer the recovery time will be.

• Light Peels
• Medium Peels
• Deep Peels

Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), Betahydroxy acids (BHAs) are considered light peels or "lunch hour" peels and is the mildest chemical peel procedure available. These peels include glycolic, lactic, and fruit acid peels (AHA) or Salicylic Acid (BHA). They burn off only the outer layers of the skin to smooth out fine wrinkles and/or rough, dry skin. AHA and Beta lift peels may also be used to improve the texture of sun-damaged skin, balance out skin pigmentation, or diminish some types of acne scars. These peels are often repeated to achieve the desired results.

The application of AHA and Beta lift peels are relatively fast and simple. These peels are generally performed in the doctor’s office. No sedation or anesthesia is required, since the patient only experiences a slight stinging when the solution is applied. The treatment usually takes about 15-20 minutes, however, concentration of the chemical solution or the length of treatment time may vary depending upon patient.

We begin by thoroughly cleansing the area to be treated. Next, we will apply the AHA solution, wait up to 15 minutes, and then remove it. After the procedure, no ointments or salves will be necessary to cover the treated area. Monthly or weekly repetition is common.

Trichloroacetic acids (TCA) A TCA solution is used for medium depth peels. This is generally used to treat skin with moderate sun damage, surface wrinkles, and/or uneven tone or pigment abnormalities. Full-face TCA peels take approximately 15 minutes. Generally, TCA peels are performed in the doctor's office or in a surgery center as an outpatient procedure.

Before applying the chemical solution, a member of the Azura Medical Spa team will thoroughly cleanse the area to be treated. A sedative may be given, but TCA peels often do not require anesthesia because the solution itself has a numbing effect on the skin. At first, the patient may feel a warm or burning sensation, followed by stinging. Sometimes two or more TCA peel treatments, at intervals of one to two months, are necessary to achieve the desired results. The TCA peels can be used in varying concentrations, the higher concentrations may require oral or liquid anesthesia medication.

Azura Medical Spa does not offer Deep Peels. Laser & Light based therapy have replaced most deep peels.

To schedule a chemical peel appointment call Azura Medical Spa 980-297-7733 or contact us.