Editor's Note: The Skin Source is your source for information on the body's largest and most conspicuous organ — your skin. Dr. A. Geronimo Jones, who recently completed his training as a dermatologist at St. John's Institute of Dermatology in London, is here regularly to answer your questions and provide information that will enhance your skin, beauty and general health. This week Dr. Jones talks about the use of chemical peels to improve appearance.
Chemical Peeling is exactly what it says: peeling of the skin using a chemical solution. All chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to remove the outer layers of skin so that a smoother, more evenly pigmented and glowing layer of skin can appear. There are three basic categories of chemical peels: light, medium and deep. The stronger the chemical, the deeper the peel penetrates, and the more impressive the results. However, the deeper the peel, the more likely the possibility of pain and post-peel complications. In addition, the deeper the peel, the longer the recovery time.
Chemical peels should be performed by a dermatologist. Weeks prior to treatment, the skin should be prepared with pre-conditioning creams, sun block and total sun avoidance. The skin is then thoroughly cleansed with an agent that removes excess oils to allow an even peel. The eyes and hair are then protected. During the chemical peel, the physician applies the chemical solution to the entire face. These applications produce separation and eventually peel off the desired layers of skin, enabling healthier and younger skin to appear.
During the procedure, most patients experience a warm to hot sensation that may last 5 to 10 minutes, followed by a stinging sensation. The effect of the peel is then stopped with a neutralizing spray, and the patient is given a moisturizer to apply to the face.
It is important to avoid overexposure to the sun immediately after a chemical peel, since the new skin is fragile and more susceptible to injury. Your dermatologist should prescribe appropriate follow-up care to help the skin heal.
Complications following face peels are rare and usually minor. Scarring is possible, but with the newer techniques and more superficial peels, this is extremely rare. With good postoperative care, infections are also rare. Pigment changes to the skin are the most common complication. However, these problems are more common in dark-skinned individuals.
Editor's note: Dr. A. Geronimo Jones is a graduate of Morehouse College, Atlanta, Ga. With family roots in Montserrat and the U.S.Virgin Islands, he received his medical degree from the University of the West Indies School of Medicine. Jones has recently completed his training as a dermatologist at St. John's Institute of Dermatology, London. He plans to practice general and cosmetic dermatology at Eureka Medical Center, Tortola, British Virgin Islands. Dr. Jones is happy to answer any question from readers. If you have a question, simply e-mail it to source@viaccess.net.
Editor's note: Dr. Jones is presently seeing patients at Eureka Medical Clinic, on Tortola, BVI.
