4 points to know about powerful resurfacing with the deep phenol peel

Chemical peels are highly versatile, ranging from light to deep. For severe skin concerns and dramatic results, a deep phenol peel is often needed. Because of the risks involved, it’s crucial to choose the right provider when searching for “deep chemical peel services near me in MetroWest, Massachusetts.” At Essential Dermatology in Natick, Marlborough, and Needham, Massachusetts, you can trust the expertise of our Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michael Krathen. Below, we highlight key points about this advanced form of skin resurfacing.

No. 1: Deep resurfacing, defined

All chemical peels generally “work” similarly; they involve applying medical-grade formulations to aged and sun-damaged skin. Light or superficial peels gently exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin. Medium-depth peels penetrate both the outer and middle layers of the skin. The deep peel is the most aggressive option. It affects the deepest layers of the skin (to the dermis), and due to how deeply it penetrates, we can support positive changes in the building blocks of the skin. We can rebuild the skin’s structure by triggering the production of collagen.

No. 2: Phenol, defined

Each type of peel contains different active ingredients. Phenol, also known as carbolic acid, is the powerhouse behind deep peels. It removes the outer layers of the skin. Due to the nature of phenol and how it is absorbed into the skin, it is imperative to partner with a qualified and experienced professional. Dr. Krathen thoroughly screens each patient and reviews their medical history to ensure that phenol is an appropriate and safe option for resurfacing.

Actual Patient Results

30 year old female with dyschromia (sun spots) and mid face volume loss.
Sculptra injected to help restore facial volume. TCA peel performed to unify skin tone and texture.

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No. 3: Good candidates

You may be well-suited to a deep phenol peel if you have severe signs of sun damage, such as deep furrows, stubborn hyperpigmentation, or brown discoloration. The deep peel may also be right for you if you have scarring or precancerous growths (AKs) and other deep lesions that cannot be treated adequately or quickly with less aggressive or alternative treatments. You should be generally healthy, with no history of underlying heart problems. It’s also important to commit to pre-treatment and after-care instructions and have reasonable expectations about your results.

No. 4: The process

You may be prescribed medications to minimize the risk of post-inflammatory discoloration following treatment. You may also be asked to discontinue taking products with certain ingredients. Be vigilant about sun protection/avoidance in the weeks leading up to your appointment. We use the acid in sections, and your vitals will be monitored throughout treatment. You should only feel tingling or heat as the outermost layer of skin is removed. Take any pain medications and apply ointments, gauze, and other products as Essential Dermatology directs.

With good skincare, the redness should fade in around three months, when you can see the full and truly transformative results from treatment! While you must follow after-care instructions precisely and exercise some patience, the results can last for years. To find out if a deep peel is right for you, schedule a consultation at our office at (508) 545-9713 (Natick, MA) or (508) 545-9611 (Marlborough) or (508) 484-8292 today.

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