A chemical peel uses a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of facial skin by removing damaged outer layers. It can be beneficial for those with facial blemishes, wrinkles, and uneven skin pigmentation. Dr. Donald R Collins offers several types of chemical peels in Houston, including:

• Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)
• Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)
• Phenol

The precise formula used is customized to meet each patient's individual needs. While chemical peels may be performed alongside other procedures like facelifts, they are not a substitute for surgery and will not prevent the aging process.

Benefits of Chemical Peels

Chemical peels can:

• Enhance appearance and boost self-confidence
• Remove pre-cancerous skin growths
• Soften acne facial scars
• Help control acne
• Improve skin texture and tone
• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
• Correct pigmentation issues

Types of Chemical Peels

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

AHAs like glycolic, lactic, or fruit acids produce light peels. They can improve skin texture, treat fine wrinkles, dryness, uneven pigmentation and acne. Multiple treatments may be needed for best results.

Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)

TCA peels provide medium-depth peeling to treat fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems. Results are less dramatic than phenol peels but recovery time is shorter.

Phenol

Phenol produces the deepest peel and is used to treat coarse facial wrinkles, sun damage, and pre-cancerous growths. It provides the most dramatic, long-lasting results but also has the longest recovery time.

The Chemical Peel Procedure

During your consultation, Dr. Collins will examine your skin and recommend the most appropriate type of peel. The procedure involves:

1. Cleansing the skin
2. Carefully applying the peel solution
3. Allowing it to work for the prescribed time
4. Neutralizing or removing the solution
5. Applying post-peel skincare

Depending on the type of peel, the process can take anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour. Multiple treatments may be recommended for optimal results.

Recovery After a Chemical Peel

Recovery time varies based on peel depth:

• AHA peels: Minimal downtime, some flaking/redness
• TCA peels: 7-10 days of healing, moderate discomfort
• Phenol peels: 2+ weeks of recovery, significant redness/swelling

Dr. Collins provides detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and optimal results. Protecting the skin from sun exposure is crucial after any chemical peel treatment.

Schedule Your Chemical Peel Consultation

To learn more about chemical peels and find out which treatment is right for you, contact Dr. Donald R Collins' office in Houston today to schedule a consultation.