Medical Spa 411: Which Clients Are Best Suited for a Phenol Chemical Peel

Chemical peels have many benefits for clients. Most of them will opt for the alpha hydroxyl or light chemical peels which make the client’s skin younger looking, free of blemishes and winkles and even acne. Some need the medium depth chemical peel or trichloracetic acid peel which can remove thin facial lines, birth marks and other skin flaws and improve pigmentation. Others however need deep chemical peels or phenol peels.

A phenol peel will improve blemishes, remove deeper skin lines, remove birthmarks, eliminate pre-cancerous growths, correct acne scars and control acne, provide good long lasting effects and probably can do all of this with just one treatment.

Remember that all chemical peels have a certain risk and complication factor. Of course when performed by qualified clinicians the risks are minimal, but they should be kept in mind. Alphahydroxy can cause skin redness, burning and irritation. Medium peels can cause discoloration of the skin. Phenol peels are the most serious.  Those considering phenol peels should be aware that the skin will be lighter in color after the procedure. The client will no longer be able to tan since the skin will no longer produce pigmentation.  Phenol treatment can cause skin discoloration with some areas lighter and some areas darker. Also those clients who have heart problems should avoid phenol treatments. Also those who have naturally dark skin should avoid phenol. For this reason those of African descent and many of Middle Eastern descent should avoid phenol peels. It has a longer recovery period which can last up to two months, and those who have the procedure will always need to wear sun block.

Who should have a phenol chemical peel? Those clients who are in otherwise good health but have lesions, precancerous growths or other abnormalities of the skin and wish to remove them, and who have been approved by a physician to undergo the procedure. The client must be light skinned and must be aware of both the benefits and the risks associated with phenol chemical peels. The person must be prepared to live with the consequences including always wearing sun block and avoiding the sun for prolonged periods of time, and must have time for the recovery. If you believe one of your clients would benefit from a phenol chemical peel, consult a plastic surgeon or other professional and determine if it is truly right for her.