New Generation of Chemical Peels Offers Solutions to Treat Aging Skin
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New Generation of Chemical Peels Offers Solutions to Treat Aging Skin
(press release from AAD)
NEW YORK (July 30, 2004) If looking your age doesn?t sound appealing to you, a chemical peel could be your secret weapon in erasing the tell-tale signs that go hand in hand with growing older. Whether you opt for a superficial chemical peel or a deep peel that penetrates several layers of the skin, the introduction of newer peeling agents are giving dermatologists more options than ever to treat fine lines, sun damage, mild scarring, and even some forms of acne and pigmentation disorders safely and effectively.
Speaking at ACADEMY 04, the American Academy of Dermatology?s summer scientific session in New York, dermatologist Neil S. Sadick, M.D., a clinical professor of dermatology at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University in New York, N.Y., addressed the benefits of chemical peels in rejuvenating the skin.
A chemical peel is a treatment that consists of the application of a chemical exfoliating solution to the skin, which causes the aged or damaged skin to "peel off" and allows new skin to regenerate in its place. Depending on the severity of the skin damage, the chemical solutions are applied in varying concentrations to alter the superficial, medium or deep layers of the skin.
"Superficial chemical peels, often referred to as lunchtime peels, remain the cornerstone of any skin rejuvenation program because they require virtually no downtime and produce good results for early signs of aging," said Dr. Sadick. "Patients
in their 20s and 30s with fine lines or some mild areas of uneven skin pigmentation caused by sun damage are ideal candidates for this procedure."
The newer generation of alpha hydroxyl acids used as chemical peeling agents, including beta and polyhydroxy acids, have been shown to help in the treatment of acne
by reducing the amount of sebum or oil trapped in the tiny hair follicles of the skin that produce acne. While some darker-skinned individuals have experienced a temporary loss of pigmentation after a superficial chemical peel, these new chemical solutions appear to reduce the occurrence of this common side effect.
If a patient has more noticeable wrinkles or dispersed areas of irregular pigmentation, dermatologists may opt to use an intermediate or medium depth peel to penetrate beyond the outermost layer of the skin. A peeling agent with a higher concentration, such as trichloroacetic acid or a combination of solutions, produces more noticeable results. In addition to softening wrinkles and improving the skin's overall texture, Dr. Sadick noted that these peels can tighten the skin, reduce pore size and also diminish mild acne scarring. Side effects are temporary and include post-peel hypopigmentation (or loss of skin pigment) and redness.
For more severe skin damage, deeper peeling agents are used and applied either openly to the skin or sealed under surgical bandages to further strengthen the effect. While deeper chemical peels produce the most dramatic results, the procedure can be painful due to the higher concentration of peeling agents used and require a longer healing period than other peels usually two to three weeks. Occasionally, patients experience serious side effects, such as persistent post-peel hypopigmentation.
Dr. Sadick emphasized that the new approaches to chemical peeling using a combination of peeling solutions maximizes results while minimizing side effects. In addition, chemical peeling agents are currently being used to rejuvenate areas other than the face, such as the neck, chest and hands with much success.
"Chemical peels are versatile skin rejuvenators that can enhance the results of other cosmetic procedures," explained Dr. Sadick. "Currently, we are studying a combination approach to treating melasma, otherwise known as the ?mask of pregnancy, in which darker patches of skin appear on the face during pregnancy and can be difficult to treat. We are finding that using a series of microdermabrasion treatments, in conjunction with beta salicylic acid peels, evens skin pigmentation gently with minimal risk to the patient."
Before considering any cosmetic procedure, the American Academy of Dermatology advises patients to talk to their dermatologist about his or her credentials and experience with the procedure, ask to see before and after photos of previous patients, and discuss the risks and expected results of the procedure.
"Dermatologists perform millions of chemical peels safely and effectively every year," said Dr. Sadick. "The key is to find a dermatologist who understands your expectations and explains to you the pros and cons of each type of chemical peel before undergoing the procedure."
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology, founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 14,000 dermatologists worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the AAD at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
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