How a Blue Peel is Performed

A Blue Peel is an effective cosmetic procedure that is used to reduce age spots or acne and give the skin a younger appearance. The blue chemical peel is typically applied on the face, but may also be used for the cleavage, neck, back, arms or hands.

Types of Face Peel

The Blue Peel technique was invented by a doctor Obagi in the U.S. There were several variations of chemical peel techniques available before the appearance of the blue peel. However, these techniques may cause decreased levels of pigmentation. The blue peel technique employing the trichloracetic acid will not cause skin discoloration.

The TCA Blue Peel Procedure

The blue peel is a non surgical procedure that employs the chemical known as trichloracetic acid (TCA) to peel off dead and damaged skin cells. A 20% to 30% TCA acid is recommended and this will be mixed with a blue ionic base. The solution has a green-bluish shade. Given that the coats applied on the skin contain acids, you might feel a burning sensation on the skin during and after the application of the solution. To reduce the discomfort, the plastic surgeon may administrate a light anesthetic. TCA is a self neutralizing solution, but it takes 3 to 5 minutes for it to neutralize and during this time, you may feel discomfort. The TCA will be applied in a few different coats. The aesthetician will use some cosmetic applicators. The solution must be applied evenly on the entire face. If certain areas have more scaring, the aesthetician will insist on these areas. Typically, the aesthetician will apply 1 to 4 coats of blue peel solution. The coats will be left on for 15 to 20 minutes and then they will be gently removed along with the dead skin cells. The aesthetician will use a cleanser to remove the remains of the solution, but the skin will still have a bluish hue due to the blue ionic base.

How Long Does the Procedure Last?

The blue peel procedure lasts on average 30 to 45 minutes. The blue peel is an out patient treatment and typically, you should feel no pain after (only a bit of swelling).

Blue Peel Effects

The blue peel is a chemical procedure that will reduce and even erase the age spots, acne or sun damage. The after pictures will reveal a much younger skin and a fresher appearance. The TCA acid stimulates the skin to produce collagen, which gives elasticity to the skin.

After the Procedure

Your skin will have a sun burnt aspect for 7 to 10 days after the procedure. You may also have a blue cast to the skin, 2 to 3 days after the peel. Due to the irritations and to prevent the infection of the skin, you should avoid wearing makeup for 10 to 14 days following the procedure, or until the skin is healed. Special care must be paid if you go out in the sun; sunscreen is imperative to avoid possible sun burns, which can be more serious immediately after a blue peel. Also, there might be minor swelling.