If you are would like a younger look and a softer, clearer skin, the blue peel procedure is highly recommended. The chemical blue peel can be used on the face, but in case you have age spots or acne on your back, arms, cleavage or neck, the procedure can be applied on these areas as well. You can prepare for the procedure by learning what the procedure involves and what to expect during the blue peel.
Before the Procedure
You will have to prepare your skin prior to the procedure, to prevent any possible risks of the blue peel procedure. Treat the skin with a Tretinoin, a prescription medication that contains Vitamin A, which acts as a skin thinner. Your doctor will prescribe you a suitable medication. In some cases, hydroquinone, a bleaching substance will also be mixed with the medication. This treatment may be needed for up to a month before the procedure.
Before the blue peel procedure, the cosmetic surgeon will take a look at your face and determine the problem areas. The problem areas are those that have multiple age spots or acne. The cosmetic surgeon will insist on these areas, applying several coats of chemical substance for a more thorough clearing.
It’s recommended that you come with no make up on; in case you have make up, this will be removed, as the skin must be clean so that the blue peel solution does not interfere with the make up or impurities on your skin.
The blue peel procedure employs a chemical substance known as the trichloracetic acid (TCA). A solution of 20% TCA will be used; this solution contains a blue ionic base also, which will determine the color of the mix.
Before the procedure you will also get a light anesthetic, which will reduce the discomfort during the surgery. The anesthetic will be administered 1 hour prior the surgery.
The Blue Peel Procedure
During the blue peel procedure the blue-green solution of TCA and ionic base will be applied on your skin. You will feel a burning sensation, as the solution contain acid and it takes about 3 to 5 minutes for the base to neutralize the acid.
In case you had a local anesthesia, you won’t feel the burning.
The blue peel solution will be applied in several coats (2 to 4) and the plastic surgeon may apply more coats in the problem areas. The solution will be held for 15 to 20 minutes, after which it will be removed.
The dead and damaged skin cells will be removed, leaving you with beautiful, younger looking skin.
Duration of the Procedure
The blue peel is an outpatient procedure that will last for 30 to 40 minutes; however, in case you need anesthesia, this should be administered prior to the surgery (up to 1 hour before) in order to be effective.
Healing Time
It’s also useful to know the healing time after the blue peel procedure, to be able to determine whether you need to take time off from your job and daily activities.
Immediately after the procedure, your skin will have a bluish hue due to the solution; this bluish hue may last for 2 to 3 days. The skin may be slightly swollen for 1 to 2 days.
The skin will be reddish for 7 to 10 days after the procedure. You should avoid make up until the skin is totally healed and make sure to wear sunscreen, as your skin is very sensitive.
