Men are more likely to complain about their skin than ask for a cosmetic treatment. Are you ready to man up and ask for a peel?
Chemical peels for men remove damaged skin cells on the outer layers of the skin. By removing these damaged cells it makes the skin smoother, reduces scars and eliminates blemishes.
A chemical peel for men removes the dead skin and stimulate new skin cell production so skin gets tighter, wrinkles are reduced and overall looks more youthful.
There are three types of peels that range from mild to strong: alphahydroxy acid, trichloroacetic acid and phenol peels. The strength and type of each peel is determined by the patient.
The trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel is a good choice for men due to its flexibility, effectiveness and safety. The procedure is usually done in the office and no numbing aging is needed.
How Do TCA Chemical Peels for Men Work?
All peels work by removing a layer of damaged skin. Mild peels remove the top layer of sun damage while stronger peels remove cells at a deeper level.
TCA Chemical Peel for men can treat damage cells ranging from shallow levels to deeper.
Light – done in a series of three-to-six peels
Medium – done once a year
Strong – saved for severe acne scaring and tightening skin on lower lids
What Areas Can Be Treated?
The most popular areas to be treated with the TCA chemical peel for men are the face, neck, chest, arms and legs.
How Fast Will I See Results?
You will see results as soon as the skin is done peeling! For a medium peel that can be about seven days.
You will continue to see your face improve for the next two to three months.
It’s a Chemical Right…Does It Hurt?
The sensation felt by patients depends on the type of peel you get:
- Light peels are a slight tingle in the skin
- Medium and deeps peels produce a slight burning while the peel is being applied but only lasts a few minutes.
What Is the Process?
The TCA chemical peel for men is applied using a brush and “painted” on the skin. Several passes are made until the desired depth is reached.
It is at this time that some irritation may be felt but a small fan will be provided to cool and soothe the skin.
An antibiotic ointment will be applied to protect the skin and promote healing.
What Are the Side Effects?
Side effects range in severity depending on the strength and depth:
- Pain
- Redness
- Wound Healing.
- Swelling
- Scarring
- Sun sensitivity
What Will My Skin Look Like After the Peel?
At first your skin will look “frosty” white. After a few minutes it will turn dark like you have been out in the sun and gotten a tan.
After two-to-three days the peeling process will begin and can take four to five days.
During this period your face may be red or pink. After the seventh day the you should see your younger rejuvenated looking skin
How Should I Take Care of My Skin After?
Your provider will give you written instructions for care after your peel.
Generally you need to avoid direct sunlight for the first few days after your peel and wear sunscreen to protect your healing skin.