Acid peels for the face - how can I treat wrinkles?

Although acid peels and chemical peels refer to the same wrinkle reduction treatment, the term 'acid peel' is often used to describe the deeper therapies, like Jessner's peels and Beta-hydroxy peels.

Here these two wrinkle reducers are compared and contrasted. Please note, the information below is only intended as a summary of the various ant-wrinkle options open to you. Please ensure you get advice from a fully qualified dermatologist or skin therapist before proceeding with any course of treatment.

Jessner's Peels for treating wrinkles

This therapy was named after its creator is one of the deepest wrinkle reduction peels you can get. It contains a number of different acid chemicals, namely lactic acid (an acid derived from milk), salicylic acid (which is also used to produce aspirin) and resorcinol (a colorless crystal that is also used in dyes and tanning products).

How long does the treatment last? 30-60 minutes.

Number of treatments needed: depends on individual and depth and severity of wrinkles; however the peel can be used numerous times for continuous reduction of wrinkles.

Immediate effects: whitening of the face (known as frosting) may occur immediately; however this should disappear after a couple of hours. Many patients have some pinkness or redness for two to three days following the treatment.

Possible risks and complications: there is a risk of short-term pigmentation changes and in some cases this can be permanent. Some patients also complain of a stinging sensation during the treatment.

Wrinkle reduction success: After a week or so, flaking should start to occur making way for the appearance of new, younger-looking skin.

Beta Hydroxy Peels

This peel is more of a wrinkle reducer than a wrinkle remover, and can also be used to treat certain skin disorders like acne. Many people with badly sun-damaged skin opt for this type of chemical peel as it is slightly stronger than other treatments like glycolic acid peels but not as strong as the Jessner peel.

How long does the treatment last? About an hour.

Number of treatments needed: Results will be noticeable after just one session, however further peels can be carried out to enhance them.

Immediate effects: Patients often notice a slight 'scaling' of the skin, as well as some blotchiness. Both these should die away within two to three days.

Possible risks and complications: there is a slight chance of permanent skin discoloration if exposed to sunlight. Spots, acne and cold sores may become temporarily inflamed. Some stinging may occur.

Wrinkle reduction success: These peels have a good track record of reducing wrinkles and fine lines and will be more effective at treating deep wrinkles than glycolic and lactic acid peels.

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2008 - Acid Peels

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