Alphahydroxy Peels to Remove Unwanted Lines and Wrinkles

When looking in the mirror, seeing fine lines and wrinkles staring back at you can cause some folks distress. They see it as an aging process that they would sooner not have to accept. There are many procedures that can be taken to remove these lines, some pretty drastic and some less so. One of the less drastic measures would be to consider an AHA (Alphahydroxy acid) peel which has often been referred to as a 'lunchtime peel'. Alphahydroxy peels can also aid those suffering with blemishes caused through acne, dry skin or uneven skin pigmentation.

As I am sure you have already gleaned by the name an Alphahydroxy peel is a chemical peel and can be used to treat blemishes on the face, neck, chest, hands, arms and legs. This procedure is used most often for cosmetic purposes to enhance appearance and self-confidence. It may be used along with a face-lift but is no substitute for a facelift and will not slow down the aging process.

Alphahydroxy peels are usually given in the Doctors office and rarely take longer than 10 minutes, hence the name 'lunchtime peel', but be sure to choose your Doctor with care. Check his/her credentials and be confident that the physician of your choice has had adequate training and experience with this procedure.

It is unlikely that anesthesia will be required and you should only feel a slight stinging sensation when the peel is applied but you could also find that you suffer redness, irritation, crusting, flaking or scaling and dryness. And as with most medical procedures there can be some complications of which you should be aware:

1. There could be a temporary or even permanent change of skin color. There are some factors that could increase the likelihood of this occurring such as taking birth control pills, pregnancy, or even a family history of brownish discoloration to the face.

2. There is the possibility of scarring but should this occur it can usually be treated.

3. For those who are susceptible to cold sores or Herpes simplex infections they may find that they have a reaction of cold sores or fever blisters after having a chemical peel.