Phenol peeling is a skin cleansing procedure with carbolic acid (synonyms: phenol, hydroxybenzene, Carbolic acid). Phenol is an aggressive volatile substance with a strong persistent odor, which, when it comes into contact with the skin, causes skin burns, stimulating the synthesis of protein fibers. When performing phenol peeling, a composition is used that, in addition to carbolic acid, includes: glycerin, propylene glycol, oil (accelerates the absorption of carbolic acid by the skin) and distilled water.
Experts consider carbolic acid to be a poisonous substance with exceptional absorption ability. It is known that when it comes into contact with the skin, after a few minutes it appears in the brain tissues and disrupts the central nervous system (up to clouding of consciousness), irritation of the mucous membranes, spasm of the respiratory tract, convulsions and discoloration of the skin. Carbolic acid is utilized in the liver, where it decomposes into safe water-soluble components that enter the kidneys and are then excreted from the body along with urine. For all their aggressiveness, phenol does not have carcinogenic properties and does not accumulate in the body. It is known that carbolic acid is a natural substance for humans, because phenolic compounds are produced in small amounts in the body.
Types of phenol peeling
- 3% carbolic acid contain preparations for cleansing the skin;
- 25% carbolic acid contain preparations for median cleansing of the skin;
- over 35% carbolic acid contain preparations designed to cleanse the skin. They affect all layers of the epidermis (even the papillary). According to reviews, deep phenol peeling is a very traumatic procedure, the recovery period after which can take up to a year. This, dermatosurgical procedure, is performed only after examination of the liver, kidneys and cardiovascular system. Deep phenol peeling is done in a hospital under general anesthesia and with mandatory cardiac monitoring. Experts advise resorting to this radical method of skin rejuvenation only in cases where it is not possible to use laser resurfacing, ultrasonic or mechanical. Peeling with compositions containing more than 35% carbolic acid is most often performed in the form of applications on problem areas.
Phenol peeling: indications
- Skin defects associated with photoaging (wrinkles, age spots, decreased turgor);
- deep static wrinkles and folds;
- age-related hyperpigmentation of the skin;
- scarring;
- fine-wrinkled skin aging;
- scars after surgical interventions;
- aging, flabby skin;
- skin defects associated with severe acne and demodicosis.
Phenol peeling: features of the procedure
It has been proven that the degree of toxic effect of the active component depends on its concentration in the working composition, the area of the treated surface and the rate of application of the drug. If a composition containing 35% carbolic acid is applied slowly to small areas of the skin, then it is absorbed into the bloodstream and enters the liver (where it immediately begins to decompose) in limited portions. Schematically, it looks like this: at the time of absorption of the next dose of phenol, the previously absorbed has already decomposed into safe components, which means that the risk of intoxication is minimized. For comparison: if the entire surface of the body is quickly treated with a composition containing only 2% carboxylic acid, a person can die.
The question may arise: “Is it worth the risk and use of a toxic substance?” Reviews of phenol peeling prove that the risk in this case is fully justified. Phenol peeling provides the most pronounced anti-aging effect compared to any other peels, while the result after a single skin treatment lasts up to 10 years! The skin, recovered after treatment with carbolic acid, looks smooth, toned and fresh. Phenol peeling improves the overall tone of the skin, reliably eliminates fine wrinkles and age spots.
The procedure has serious disadvantages. First of all, this a large list of contraindications and a very long (up to a year!) rehabilitation period. In addition, before deciding on a phenol peel, you should make sure that your own kidneys, liver and cardiovascular system are in excellent condition, that is, undergo a complete medical examination. In addition, phenol peeling is one of the most painful cosmetic procedures that requires serious anesthesia. To a greater extent, all of the above applies to deep phenol peeling and partly to the median. Superficial phenol peeling is no more dangerous than any other superficial chemical peel.
Deep phenol peeling: how is the procedure
Preparation for deep and medium phenol peeling. You should start preparing for phenol peeling 5-7 weeks in advance (having previously passed a general examination), treating the skin with weak acid solutions in order to even out skin color. If you apply a phenol-containing composition to unprepared skin, then there is a risk of hyperpigmentation due to damage to the skin to different depths. At this time, it is recommended to take antioxidants and drugs that reduce the permeability of the walls of blood vessels.. For six months, you should stop taking retinoids (externally and internally) so as not to provoke increased peeling (loosening) of the skin, which can lead to burns and hyperpigmentation. When preparing the skin for the procedure, it should not be subjected to mechanical cleaning, shaving and epilation (approximately ten days before). After tanning, at least three months should pass, and after laser procedures and medium cleansing, at least six.
Procedure for deep cleansing of the skin with compounds containing phenol
- Because of the strong odor phenol peeling is carried out in well-ventilated areas equipped with hoods. The procedure, depending on the characteristics of the patient's skin and the tasks facing the beautician, lasts from 40 minutes to two hours.
- The cosmetologist outlines the areas where deep phenolic peeling will be performed, and makes applications of the composition to the places where wrinkles, stretch marks, and scars accumulate. In other areas, median peeling is done. Phenol peeling is not done on the arms, chest, neck and other places where the likelihood of keloid scars is high.
- Intravenous anesthesia is performed (if deep exfoliation is to be done) or local anesthesia is done (2% lidocaine) in case of median or superficial peels.
- The skin is cleaned with a brush, dried thoroughly and degreased with alcohol.
- Uniform and smooth movements apply a preparation containing phenol, trying to maintain a five-minute interval between treatments of individual zones.
- After the end of the exposure time, a special mask-film and a neutralizing composition are applied to the skin. The film mask is removed on the second day after the procedure.
- At the end of the procedure, sunscreen is applied to the skin of the face.
Skin care after phenol peeling. Immediately after treatment, patients feel a burning sensation in the treated areas. The sensations can be so painful that you have to take painkillers. On the first day, it is very important to avoid getting water on the skin, which can enhance the penetration of phenol, which is fraught with unnecessary burns. It is recommended to drink through a straw and not brush your teeth. On the second day after the procedure, the mask-film with the destroyed particles of the skin adhered to it is removed. The skin at this moment is bright red - a “living wound”, it cannot be wetted. Further, a tightening superficial crust is formed on the skin, which is cared for using cosmetics with panthenol. Gradually formed on the skin scabs (crusts of dying tissues), which in no case should be removed forcibly. If this is allowed, then foci of hyperpigmentation and scarring may occur in the treated area.
After superficial phenol peeling, the skin recovers in an average of two weeks. After deep phenol peeling, the process of skin restoration is completed 7-12 months after the procedure, and painful redness lasts for 2 months. During the entire recovery period, you can not sunbathe. Typically, the doctor will create a restorative care program, which includes cosmetics with panthenol, whitening formulations, moisturizers based on hyaluronic acid and sunscreen with SPF 50+. At the same time, internal use of vitamin complexes is recommended.
Phenol peeling - price. The cost of different types of phenol peeling
The price of phenol peeling in Moscow reaches 25,000 rubles. To obtain the desired result, only one procedure is required, the effect of which lasts up to 10 years. You should know that only a cosmetologist can do deep phenol peeling in a cosmetology clinic.
Phenol peeling: contraindications
- Pregnancy and lactation;
- fresh burns, scratches and other skin lesions;
- exacerbation of herpes;
- eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, fungal diseases;
- oncological diseases;
- diabetes;
- cardiovascular diseases;
- mental illness;
- pathology of the thyroid gland;
- any infectious, inflammatory and chronic diseases (during an exacerbation);
- fresh tan;
- allergy to peeling components;
- menstruation;
- elevated body temperature (for any reason);
- hypertrichosis, skin sensitivity disorders, numerous nevi;
- tendency to form keloid scars;
- violation of skin sensitivity.
Attention: phenol peeling has age restrictions, the procedure is not recommended for patients under 18 years of age and over 60 years of age. It is impossible to combine the procedure and taking medications that can increase the toxicity of carbolic acid and decompose in the liver with the same enzymes as phenol - this will slow down the decomposition of carbolic acid, and a long stay of this substance in the body will inevitably lead to poisoning.
All of us can be very conditionally divided into two large groups. The first group will include those who diligently “do not notice” the existing health problems, and go to the doctor only when they are completely “baked”. Such stoics endure a severe cold on their feet, with pressure over 200 they participate in the next emergency at work, and a chronic ulcer is “treated” with vodka or maalox. Representatives of the second category can be called alarmists rather conditionally. A minor headache that arose strictly after a sudden change in weather conditions? Go to the doctor immediately, it's definitely oncology! Temperature 37.1 (note for clarity, after 2 packs of ice cream eaten in a draft)? It's bird flu! A little sick and no appetite (and after all, the day before they celebrated the birthday of their beloved mother-in-law)? It looks like severe poisoning. But, unfortunately, there are those in our area who are accustomed to solving medical problems with "Stakhanov" methods. Such people do not tolerate half measures and have accustomed themselves to the fact that the most effective by default will be the best. And to somehow illustrate this idea, consider phenol peeling as an example.
Customer reviews: I did the procedure in the salon, the sensations are ambivalent. On the one hand, I am satisfied with the result (the skin of the face has literally changed), and only memories remain from the network of wrinkles around the eyes. On the other hand, after the session I felt pain and recovered for a very long time. And yes, I spent a lot of money. Maria, 38 years old.
Phenol peeling: what is it?
We rarely start a discussion with such a negative introduction, but in this case, such an approach seems completely justified. No one argues that phenol peeling is one of the most effective procedures for deep cleansing of the face, the healing effect of which is almost guaranteed. But most potential clients are unaware of how dangerous this procedure is. Moreover, the majority of cosmetologists are sure that phenol peeling is, in fact, a local surgical intervention, performed, by the way, under general (!) anesthesia.
Another undoubted "advantage" of this procedure is a rather high price. It ranges from 3 to 100 thousand rubles, and this amount often does not include additional costs for subsequent rehabilitation. It is also extremely important to understand that even a median phenol peel (not to mention a deep one) is strictly forbidden to be done at home, and the corresponding recipes that can be found on the Internet speak exclusively of the professional failure of their authors.
The main component of the composition used is carbolic acid (phenol). In addition to it, the working mixture includes glycerin, specially selected oil and distilled water. Phenol peeling can be of three types, differing in the concentration of the main component and, as a result, the depth of exposure:
- surface: no more than 3% carbolic acid;
- median: from 3 to 25%;
- deep: more than 35%.
It is strongly not recommended to ignore the advice of a doctor regarding the rehabilitation of facial skin after the procedure. And if the cosmetologist insists on inpatient treatment, it is better to agree: not everything can be done on an outpatient basis or at home.
Advantages and disadvantages
In addition to its exceptionally high efficiency, phenol peeling has other undoubted advantages, but you should not focus on them alone. Arguments "against" also abound.
Advantages
- Possibility of control of depth of active influence.
- The therapeutic effect persists for at least 7 years.
- Visible result after one (and to be more precise, the only) procedure.
- Facial skin rejuvenation for 10-15 years.
- Complete elimination of age spots, scars and deep wrinkles.
- Effective stimulation of the body at the neuronal, microcirculatory and humoral levels.
- Increasing the tone of the skin of the face.
- Excellent refreshing, brightening and smoothing effect.
disadvantages
- A very large list of contraindications.
- The need for an exhaustive medical examination and serious preliminary preparation.
- High load on the cardiovascular system.
- The use of anesthesia (local or intravenous, depending on the depth of exposure).
- High risk of complications (even if all the rules for preparing and conducting the procedure are observed).
- Long rehabilitation period (from 2 weeks to 1 year).
- Very high cost.
- The procedure can be very painful.
- Mandatory presence of a cardiologist.
- Extremely high toxicity.
Indications and contraindications
Phenol peeling is considered the "gold standard" of cosmetology, but we should not forget that this procedure is, in a certain sense, the last line of defense. In other words, it makes sense to resort to it only when other methods have already been tried and proven to be ineffective. Therefore, the list below should not be taken as an unconditional guide to action.
Indications
- Significant age-related changes in the skin of the face.
- Extensive areas of hyperpigmentation.
- Recovery after major reconstructive surgery.
- Loose skin.
- Acne disease in severe form.
- Severe photoaging.
- Large scars and scars.
- Strong demodicosis.
Contraindications
- Age (phenol peeling is not done for teenagers under 18 and older people over 60).
- Unhealed burns.
- Pregnancy and lactation.
- Pathologies of the cardiovascular system.
- Individual intolerance to one of the components.
- Good and malignant neoplasms.
- Days of menstruation.
- Any infectious disease.
- Increased weather sensitivity.
- Any violation of the integrity of the skin of the face.
- Liver, kidney or thyroid disease.
- Hypertrichosis.
- Tendency to form keloid scars.
- Herpes in the acute stage.
- Diabetes.
- Any skin diseases (psoriasis, eczema, atopic dermatitis).
- Increased body temperature (regardless of the causes of its occurrence).
- Mental pathologies.
- Intense insolation.
- Fungal diseases.
- Numerous nevi.
- IV, V and VI skin phototypes.
- Taking certain medications (eg, isotretinoin).
How often can a phenol peel be done? If in the cabin, then once or twice in a lifetime. At home, agreeing to such a procedure is not only irresponsible, but also extremely dangerous.
Skin care after phenol peel
And where is the description of the preparatory activities and the procedure itself, you ask? We deliberately omitted this point, since you should receive such information from your doctor. After all, only in this case it is possible to a certain extent "insure" against an unfavorable outcome. But in a nutshell, it would be useful to describe the restoration measures.
- drinking through a straw, refusal to brush your teeth - 1-2 days;
- panthenol (spray) - 2 months;
- mild bleaching agents;
- sunscreen (SPF at least 50);
- moisturizing formulations with hyaluronic acid;
- antioxidants;
- multivitamin complexes.
Visiting the solarium, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, baths and saunas - a complete ban for a period of at least 8-12 months.
Beautician review
Phenol peeling is a very dangerous procedure, so I recommend it to my clients only in exceptional cases. Does it pay off the risk? If there is even the slightest alternative, then definitely not. For some women, facial rehabilitation (restoring salon procedures and proper skin care at home) after such peeling takes several years, and in some cases the patient is forced to be treated in a hospital. Perhaps knowing this will make many women wonder how much they need a phenol peel.
There are various anti-aging cosmetic procedures. Most of them combine two directions of action: external exfoliation, which will smooth out irregularities and wrinkles on the skin, as well as internal activation of metabolic processes, the production of elastin and collagen, that is, an increase in turgor.
These functions are performed by various peels. The effect of pronounced rejuvenation can be given by those that belong to the category of median and deep ones, since they have a more intense effect on the dermis than superficial ones. One of the most effective in the fight against signs of aging is phenol peeling, which has existed for a long time, but, despite high competition, is still very popular, although it involves a serious interference in the body's activities.
The essence of peeling
Phenol (carbolic acid) was previously used in medicine, for example, it was used by doctors to treat hands before operations. But later, the irreparable harm that this substance causes to the body was proven. It very quickly penetrates the skin into the body and, in case of an overdose, can even lead to death.
But it is carbolic acid that is still used in cosmetology as one of the alternatives for pronounced rejuvenation without surgical intervention. The dose of the substance, as well as its correct application, allows you to avoid harmful effects on internal organs, but to carry out a controlled burn of the epidermis, which will completely renew the top layer of the skin.
Phenol is distinguished by the ability of almost instantaneous absorption, as well as by its aggressive effect: passing through the skin tissues, it dissolves everything that comes in its path, including collagen fibers, after which the cells begin to rapidly regenerate, creating a new, healthy and elastic layer.
In general, depending on the concentration of the drug, peeling can be both deep, medium and superficial. Most often, it is used in the first two options, but both of them are very serious procedures that require both special pre-peeling preparation and special skills on the part of a specialist.
Indications, contraindications
This procedure differs from other chemical peelings in that it is essentially a last resort, that is, it is used in cases where the client’s age is no longer suitable for more gentle procedures (over 40 years) or there are contraindications for other types of deep exposure, for example, laser resurfacing.
Thus, serious age-related changes that cannot be eliminated in another way can be considered indications for phenol peeling, namely:
- pronounced wrinkles;
- strong pigmentation;
- sagging of the skin;
- the presence of obvious scars, including postoperative;
- other defects that spoil the appearance of the skin.
Once in the body, carbolic acid is excreted from it through the kidneys and liver, poisoning them. But in small doses, these organs are able to neutralize the negative impact, but this will happen only when they are fully functional. That is why before carrying out phenol peeling, it is necessary to undergo a complete examination of the body.
The reason why phenol peeling, being such a risky and complex procedure, is still popular today is because of the amazing results. Very rarely, women are dissatisfied with the peeling. In other cases, a pronounced lifting effect, getting rid of pigmentation and wrinkle nets are especially noted.
This determines the presence of an extensive list of contraindications, including:
- various chronic diseases of the liver and kidneys;
- problems associated with the nervous system;
- malfunctions of the thyroid gland;
- age up to 18 years (in practice, as already mentioned, such a procedure is carried out only in adulthood, the number of exceptions is very small);
- a large number of moles on the face;
- diabetes;
- pregnancy and lactation;
- oncological diseases;
- individual intolerance to peeling components and much more.
In this case, a doctor's consultation is obligatory, since only a complete picture of the state of health will help to draw a conclusion about the admissibility of peeling with carbolic acid.
At the same time, one should also take into account the fact that the time period during which such peeling can be done has not only a lower (35–40 years), but also an upper limit (60–65 years), since with age the ability of the liver to remove harmful substances from the body.
Description of the procedure
So why, despite the riskiness of this procedure, does it still continue to be popular? There are several reasons, actually.
Firstly, the results after it are really amazing. The changes are noticeable to the naked eye, even deep wrinkles are smoothed out, the oval of the face is tightened, and age pigmentation disappears.
Secondly, the procedure has a prolonged effect. It can last up to 10 years, sometimes even longer, but it depends on the individual characteristics of the dermis.
Thirdly, unlike many other peels, this type involves a one-time repetition, and not a course, that is, you do not have to do it many times to achieve a full-fledged result.
Deep phenol peeling should be carried out exclusively by a competent specialist and under the supervision of doctors, including an anesthesiologist
At the same time, there are moments that can be called negative features of phenol peeling:
- it is painful;
- requires long-term rehabilitation;
- has a very high cost (up to 100 thousand);
- the full result will not be noticeable immediately, but only about a year after the session;
- the procedure forever excludes the possibility of sunbathing;
- may lead to unpredictable consequences.
It is important to note that deep and medium phenol peeling cannot be done at home. And among the surface there are safer and more effective options.
Let's talk about the peeling process itself, as it differs from all other acid procedures and has many nuances.
There is a preliminary stage, which begins on average 7-10 days before the actual peeling. Usually, experts advise at this time to start taking acyclovir, as it helps to avoid herpes, which can appear during the rehabilitation stage.
You must also follow the following rules:
- do not sunbathe for at least 3 months before the procedure;
- do not do medium and deep peels, skin resurfacing for six months;
- do not take vitamin A orally for six months;
- refuse any injury to the epidermis (cleansing, waxing, etc. for 10 days).
Directly at the peeling session, the cosmetologist prepares the skin for further exposure, treating it with a hard sponge and a special soapy solution to provide a surface that is uniform in thickness and cleanliness for further controlled burns.
Then anesthesia is applied. And it can be different. Sensations from median peeling, when the percentage of acid is not too high, are tolerable, and lidocaine (in ointment or spray) will help to transfer them. But the deep version requires the presence of an anesthesiologist and devices that control the heartbeat and breathing, as it is performed under general anesthesia.
The peculiarity of carbolic acid is that in large quantities it seriously harms the body, and in small quantities it can be successfully excreted by the liver and kidneys. That is why the composition is not applied to the entire face at once. First, one zone is treated, after about 5–7 minutes, the next one, etc. Often, specialists do not apply the product to the entire face, but only to problem areas in order to reduce the effect of phenol on the body.
After the phenol is distributed over the skin, it is covered on top with a special mask-film, and that, in turn, with a neutralizer. At this stage, held in the cabin, ends.
Before you decide on such a serious procedure, you need to carefully study all the information and think about the rehabilitation period, which can last up to a year, and during all this time the skin will not look its best.
The mask remains on the face for the next day. At this time, it is necessary to exclude any contact of the skin with water, even minimal, so you will have to drink not from cups, but exclusively through a straw. At the moment, most often pain persists, which can be reduced with the help of painkillers.
A day later, the mask is removed from the face, and with it - keratinized particles. As a result, only a burn remains, that is, red, slightly swollen skin, which then begins to crust and peel off. The process will last up to two weeks, during which it is better to stay at home. All this time, it is necessary to follow the skin care regimen drawn up by the beautician. It usually includes the application of healing agents.
In no case should peelings be torn off. When they stop completely, the redness will still be present. It lasts on average up to two months from the moment of phenol peeling. Full restoration of normal appearance can take from 6 months to a year. At this time, the skin will be more loose, thin, transparent, the pores may be enlarged.
Of the positive changes:
- powerful lifting effect;
- smoothing wrinkles;
- getting rid of acne;
- elimination of pigmentation.
That is, there is a complete anti-aging transformation of the skin, accompanied by the removal of all associated imperfections.
After peeling with carbolic acid, the beautician can also prescribe a special lifelong facial treatment, which includes:
- constant use of creams with SPF;
- the use of products with retinoids and vitamin C;
- application or injection of hyaluronic acid.
Possible Complications
The correct technology for applying phenol eliminates its harmful effects of the substance on the body, but, however, in essence, the procedure burns the surface layer of the skin. And further recovery will depend only on the individual characteristics of the body. Certain complications may occur, such as:
- the appearance of areas in which there is no pigment;
- the occurrence of allergic reactions;
- heart, liver or kidney failure;
- increased sensitivity of the epidermis;
- exacerbation of dermatological diseases;
- hyperpigmentation;
- atrophy of the skin;
- herpes, etc.
And it is impossible to predict the likelihood of a particular reaction. And they may not appear immediately, so not everyone is aware that any phenomenon was the result of phenol peeling. That is why it is extremely important to undergo a preliminary examination of the body. But, unfortunately, even this is not a guarantee.
Thus, phenol peeling is the most complicated cosmetic procedure, which is performed under anesthesia and requires special training of a cosmetologist. It is done once and exclusively in adulthood, it has a powerful lifting effect. But such rejuvenation, although really very effective, is very dangerous, so you need to carefully weigh the pros and cons before deciding on such a manipulation.
Phenol is the simplest member of the phenol class. Previously, phenol was obtained from coal tar, now the cumene method is more commonly used. Phenol and acetone are obtained from cumene by oxidation with atmospheric oxygen. In terms of production, phenol ranks 33rd among all substances produced by the chemical industry and 17th among organic substances. It has a specific smell of gouache, as gouache contains phenol. Widely used in industry, agriculture, medicine and other industries.
Phenol is a part of many antioxidants, preservatives, deodorants, antiseptics, medicines (aspirin). Aspirin has the same detoxification pathway as phenol and can also cause methemoglobinemia. Therefore, when conducting phenol peeling, it is imperative to carefully collect an anamnesis from patients, specifying which drugs they are taking. A solution of 1.4% phenol is used in medicine (oracept) as an anesthetic and antiseptic. This property of phenol is very successfully used today by manufacturers in modern chemical peel formulas. Phenol is added to the TCA peel formula to make the procedure more comfortable for patients. The concentration of phenol in this case is minimal and non-toxic, and the protocol of the procedure is no different from the protocol of superficial median peeling TCA 15%, however, the procedure becomes more comfortable for the patient.
Traditionally, in aesthetic medicine, phenol is used as a deep peeling. It is important to understand that the application of undiluted 88% phenol to the skin causes rapid and complete coagulation of epidermal proteins, as a result of which its further penetration is prevented.
Thus, pure phenol is classified as a medium depth peel, and due to the presence of non-toxic variants of the medium peel, such as TCA, phenol peels as medium peels are very rarely used. However, TCA is dangerous for deep peeling procedures, as concentrations of more than 50% often cause scarring. Phenol, on the contrary, in comparison with other components, is the safest. And the main task of the specialists was the search and use in combination with phenol of substances that contribute to its deeper penetration.
The indications for this procedure are quite definite, namely 3-4 type of aging according to Glogau, scars. Deep peeling damages the papillary dermis, the outer part of the reticular dermis, and can affect up to the middle area of the reticular layer, depending on the concentration. A narrow circle of patients agrees to this procedure due to the difficult rehabilitation period. After deep phenol peeling, the restoration of the damaged epithelium occurs within three weeks and is usually accompanied by the manifestation of significant edema. That is why often, when a patient has indications for a circular facelift and deep peeling at the same time, the doctor can combine these two procedures into one, provided that the impact zones do not overlap, so that the rehabilitation periods after each of these procedures proceed parallel. If the zones intersect, then plastic surgery is performed first, and then, not earlier than after 6 months, deep phenol peeling.
However, there are cases when phenol can be prescribed to patients for health reasons, for example, malignant lentigo. In this case, phenol can become the drug and method of choice for the doctor, as it shows better results in the long-term period compared to other methods of treatment, and compared to surgical excision, it is much easier to perform and aesthetically pleasing.
An important advantage of phenol peeling is that, unlike the median, and especially superficial peeling, the rejuvenating effect of this procedure lasts up to 10 years.
Despite good results in the treatment of most cosmetic imperfections and a long-lasting effect, deep phenol peeling is used infrequently, primarily because this method can lead to serious post-peel complications, such as delayed healing, infection and pigmentation disorders. When performing the classic phenol peeling procedure, monitoring is necessary using an electrocardiogram and biochemical blood tests. These circumstances determine the need for the procedure in a hospital setting. Success in the procedure depends on many factors, such as a correctly collected history and detection of diseases or dysfunctions of internal organs (heart, kidney, liver failure), medication (aspirin-containing drugs), patient preparation, physicochemical properties of phenol peeling, correct selection of the required formula and concentration.
The Baker-Gordon formula became the standard for phenol peeling for many years. And all further research was aimed at finding ways to prevent the undesirable effects of phenol toxicity and to achieve more precise control of the depth of penetration of the peel. Contraindications to this procedure are: pregnancy, oncological diseases of any etiology, chronic skin diseases, acne, eczema, psoriasis.
Composition of phenolic peels
Phenol peels of the past
When reviewing publications on the topic of phenol peels, a huge variety of different formulas opens up. Phenol was first used as an antiseptic in March 1865 by Lord Lister. At the very beginning of the 20th century, Mankuat in a scientific work on pharmacology described in detail phenol as an anesthetic and antiseptic at a concentration of about 5% in an aqueous, oily and alcohol solution. After that, other formulas began to appear in medical publications. This reflects the constant search for the ideal formula and explanation of the mechanisms of action that lie behind the excellent results of phenol peels.
In 1961, Baker and Gordon proposed an original deep peeling emulsion formulation that included 88% phenol, distilled water, septizol, and croton oil:
- Croton oil: 3 drops
- Liquid hexachlorophene: 8 drops
- Distilled water: 2 ml
- Phenol 88%: 3 ml
Each component of phenol peeling serves specific purposes: phenol causes keratolysis and coagulation of proteins due to the destruction of sulfide bonds; septizol surfactant enhances the penetration of phenol; croton oil also serves this purpose, causing epidermolysis. The ingredients of the peeling composition are mixed in a clean glass container immediately before the procedure.
After applying the phenol peel, the skin is covered with a sticky film, which is left in place for 24 hours. Despite the fact that the film increases the penetration of the peeling composition, it also contributes to hypopigmentation, as a result of which the skin acquires an "alabaster" color.
Ahronson introduced the glycerin formula of phenol: 88% liquid phenol dissolved in anhydrous glycerol and a few drops of alcohol. This highly concentrated formula, used without occlusion, was not as deep on application as a Baker-Gordon peel.
Ayres achieved a medium peel by mixing phenol and trichloroacetic acid. These two peels are not currently in use, as median peels can be performed with other substances, such as TCA, which are potentially non-toxic.
Brown and Kaplan introduced a more complex formula of phenol (from 60% to 95%) blended with saponin cresol in oil up to 10%. Peeling included a test selection of the desired concentration individually for each patient in the parotid region behind the auricle. Peeling was recommended to be applied on the zones with a 2-hour interval, so the procedure took 2 days.
McCollough suggested the use of Baker's phenol peel without occlusion, achieving similarly good results, but without the discomfort and side effects associated with this type of occlusion peel.
Modern phenolic peels
In modern aesthetic medicine, when evaluating new techniques, the safety of the procedure is put first, and then its therapeutic properties, so the evolution of phenol peels is in the direction of reducing toxicity while maintaining excellent results.
Yoram Fintsy was one of the catalysts for the modern success of phenol peeling with his Exoderm formula. According to Fintsy, the Exoderm formula was produced in 1986 and improved in 1990. Since then Fintsy in Israel and Bengamo in France have improved the formula. One after the other, 3 main formulas appeared:
#1 liquid phenol, crystallized phenol, distilled water, alcohol, olive oil, sesame oil, glycerol, croton oil, resorcinol, septizol, TCA 30%.
#2 liquid phenol, crystallized phenol, distilled water, alcohol, olive oil, sesame oil, glycerol, croton oil, resorcinol, septizol, salicylic acid, buffer.
#3 liquid phenol, crystallized phenol, distilled water, alcohol, olive oil, sesame oil, glycerol, croton oil, resorcinol, saponins, citric acid, buffer.
The first two formulas use septizol, while the third, which is still in use today, uses saponins. The first formula uses TCA, the second uses salicylic acid, and the third uses citric acid. The last two formulas are buffered to stabilize the pH. Fintsy described his modern Exoderm formula as a phenol-containing peel with improved safety properties.
Hatter's formulas are based on a simple change in the concentration of croton oil. Thanks to this, four formulas stand out: very light, medium light, medium and heavy phenol peeling.
Changing the concentration of croton oil is indeed one way to change the strength of a phenol peel, but this is not the only method, and a deep phenol peel can be done without croton oil at all. And you can also change the depth of exposure to phenol peeling without changing the concentration of croton oil.
Lip & Eyelid formula by Philippe Despres was first proposed to work safely and without any occlusion in the sensitive skin of the periorbital zone. Then the same formula began to be applied to the perioral region and the entire face, but with occlusion for 24 hours. This oily solution of phenol with a concentration of more than 60%. 4 different types of oils are used at different stages of the preparation of the solution. The purpose of the oily solution is to slow down the penetration of the solution into the skin and prevent maceration of the epidermis and dermis. It also limits the toxicity of phenol due to slower penetration.
Phenolic peeling Lip & Eyelid formula for the whole face in combination with botulinum toxin in the forehead, between the eyebrows, periorbital area and upper lip. Source: Text-book of Chemical Peels. Superficial, medium and deep peels in cosmetic practice. Philip Deprez.
Multipeel phenol catalisado - a deep peeling kit that includes a preparation for pre-peeling preparation for 30 days, the peeling solution itself, which is concentrated phenol (300 mg / g) in combination with lactic (120 mg / g) and salicylic acids (90 mg / g). Then the second layer is applied - a gel, which includes phenol and lactic acid, but in a lower concentration (100 mg / g each component). After the gel dries, they proceed to the application of the third preparation of the Multiped Geloleo system, which is a silicone-based gel, which includes phenol (60 mg/g) and tocopherol (100 mg/g). The task of the third layer is to create a breathable protective layer on the surface of the skin, which contributes to the penetration of phenol to the middle part of the reticular layer of the dermis within 48 hours.
Peeling Neopeel Plus and Neopeel Master contain phenol in a lower concentration compared to Multipeel (30 and 50 mg/g, respectively). In addition to phenol, the composition includes lactic acid (40 mg / g), which contributes to the exfoliation of corneocytes and positively affects the synthesis of ceramides, which are part of the lipid barrier of the stratum corneum.
The formula and concentration of peeling is chosen by the doctor depending on the thickness of the skin, the patient's phototype, the area of peeling and the type of damage (post-acne scars, photoaging, etc.)
Indications for the phenol peeling procedure
Indications for phenol peels are defined and limited to cases that cannot be treated with other types of peels. If a skin problem can be corrected with AHA or TCA peels, then, without a doubt, these types of peels will be the priority of choice, and not phenol.
The main indication for phenol peeling is acute photoaging. Not all wrinkles, folds and furrows respond equally well to the effects of phenol.
Age-related changes caused by photoaging respond much better to the effects of phenol than mimic wrinkles or folds due to excess skin. Expression wrinkles are also a good indication, provided that they are carried out approximately 8 days before peeling. Without this effective combination of treatments, kinetic wrinkles will certainly go away for a few weeks after phenol exposure, but will soon return again.
Wrinkles of the position, which are formed mainly during sleep, are the most difficult to correct, and are most often used for this, however, the method that consists in changing habits during sleep remains the most effective. Deep wrinkles and furrows are not the best indication for phenol. They arise from true chronoaging and can sometimes be filled with a filler before a phenol peel. It is not necessary to maintain a long interval between the filler and peeling procedures, these procedures can be carried out at the same time if: wrinkles and furrows are filled immediately before the peeling procedure.
Theoretically, the specialist thinks that an acute inflammatory reaction can adversely affect the implant in time, but the clinical results from the combination of these two procedures are in their favor. Deep wrinkles and furrows can also be filled after the phenol peeling procedure, after the inflammatory erythema has passed. Injections given too soon after peeling, during the erythematous phase, easily bruise. Other good indications for topical application of phenol are lower eyelid wrinkles, upper eyelid excess skin, and loss of elasticity.
It should be noted that the classic phenol peel formula is constantly being improved in order to improve the reproducibility of the method and minimize side effects.
Women use different methods to transform their appearance. Phenol peeling is one of the non-surgical cleansing methods. This procedure is complex and painful, but an excellent lasting effect will definitely please. According to cosmetologists, there is no more stable chemical peel yet. More details about the procedure are described in the article.
general information
Phenol peeling is an effective way to chemically cleanse the skin. With the help of this procedure, it will be possible not only to transform the face, eliminate deep wrinkles and scars, but also to ensure the stability of the effect for 5-10 years. The essence of the session is associated with cauterization of problem areas of the epidermis with phenol. This leads to the removal of dead cells, smoothing the skin and regeneration over the entire surface.
Phenol or carbolic acid is a chemical compound that became known in 1863. It began to be used in medicine as a disinfectant to eliminate acne. And only in the 1990s of the twentieth century, carboxylic acid began to be used for peeling. According to reviews, now this procedure is performed in many salons.
Phenol peeling is a dangerous and painful method, but also effective. The procedure has a stable result. Judging by the reviews, the opinions of cosmetologists about this treatment are different. Some believe that it should not be used on the skin, while others claim its effectiveness in the fight against aging and age-related problems.
In fact, both opinions are correct. It was found that phenol leads to the death of the patient, if its norm in the blood is more than 0.23 mg / ml, in a smaller amount the component causes arrhythmia. For phenol peeling, phenol is used with a minimum of toxic substances, so it does not cause a lethal outcome. In addition, the composition is applied slowly to protect against the accumulation of a potent component in the blood. Positive feedback from patients and specialists confirms that for about 10 years after the procedure, the skin remains elastic, toned and young.
Composition
Phenol peeling of the face is carried out using a special tool. The main active ingredient is phenol. The concentration of the component can be in the range of 3-35%, it all depends on the level of the epidermis problem that should be eliminated.
The addition of oil can accelerate the absorption of phenol by the skin. An additional component of the agent used may be liquid glycerin, propylene glycol and distilled water.
Kinds
There are 3 types of procedures:
- Mid-surface. The concentration of the active ingredient is 3%.
- Median phenol peeling. The concentration of carbolic acid can reach up to 25%.
- Deep phenolic peel. This procedure is performed very rarely. The composition contains 35% phenol, which allows for a strong phenolic peel. Deep peeling of the face is prescribed only after a deep medical examination of the patient.
The procedure is considered painful and is performed under anesthesia. It is necessary to notify the cosmetologist about the presence of an allergy to drugs that are used for anesthesia or for peeling.
When are they performed?
Phenol peeling will help to cleanse and rejuvenate the skin. Peeling is carried out using the chemical effect of the composition on the skin. The procedure is necessary for:
- Disadvantages of facial relief - deep wrinkles, stretch marks, scars.
- Strong fading of the skin, loss of turgor, tone.
- Symptoms of photoaging of the epidermis.
- Hyperpigmentation on the face, traces of sunburn.
- Consequences of acne, demodicosis.
- Dermatological ailments.
According to reviews, phenol facial peeling quickly brings positive results. The procedure allows you to renew the skin, make it soft and supple. The face becomes smooth and toned. Active synthesis of collagen and elastin also starts, so the effect will be noticeable for ten years.
results
Photo before and after phenol peeling allows you to verify the excellent result of the procedure. And it comes on quickly. Peeling has a positive effect on the cells of the skin, leads to the stimulation of internal processes, including the production of collagen. Reviews serve as confirmation of the excellent transformation after the procedure.
After performing this rejuvenation, the following changes are observed:
- Accelerates cell renewal.
- There is a restoration of elasticity, elasticity of skin fibers.
- active functioning of cells.
- Disappearance of age spots.
- Alignment of the shade of the skin, they become fresh and young.
- Smoothing the relief of the face, the disappearance of wrinkles, scars, post-acne.
- Tightening of the face contour.
- The severity of the lifting effect.
Due to such positive properties, many choose phenol peeling. Reviews of experts confirm that the excellent effect is associated with the complexity of the procedure.
When not to do?
The procedure with the use of phenol requires a serious approach, therefore, before it is carried out, the cosmetologist checks the client's health status. Peeling is not possible when:
- Diseases of the heart, blood vessels, failures in the liver and kidneys.
- Oncology, neoplasms.
- Intolerance to the components of the tool.
- Presence of damage in the affected area.
- Pregnancy.
- lactation.
- Risk of keloid scars.
- Herpes, cold sores.
- Taking medications - acetylsalicylic acid, aspirin. If this rule is violated, an overload of the liver and intoxication of the body is likely.
It is impossible to perform phenol peeling even with age restrictions. It should not be carried out before the age of 18 and after 60. In some situations with significant problems, this criterion is reviewed by a cosmetologist.
Removal of phenol from the body
Having agreed to perform a rejuvenation session, it should be borne in mind that the procedure is toxic and, if used incorrectly, can lead to poisoning and serious complications. Therefore, before this, a thorough examination of the person is carried out.
The body neutralizes and removes toxins on its own, no additional funds are required. Phenol with blood enters the liver, where neutralization occurs, and then eliminated naturally. The toxin cannot accumulate and is not a threat to human life. For maximum safety, phenolic acid is applied locally to the problem itself - wrinkles, scars, acne.
Training
How to get younger with phenol peeling? It is carried out in several stages, each of them is important. First you need preparation. In order for the procedure to pass without complications, the following rules must be observed:
- 6 months before peeling, it is necessary to stop the procedures in which the exposure to the laser beam occurs. It is important to avoid taking retinoid medications.
- 3 months before cleaning it is necessary to exclude sunburn, sunbathing.
- 1-1.5 months before this, bleaching agents prescribed by a doctor should be applied to the skin.
- Antioxidants should be taken for 2-3 weeks.
- A week before the session, you must finish the use of scrubs, mechanical cleansing of the face, shaving and epilation.
- For 7-10 days, remedies for herpes are prescribed.
- Before the session, you must undergo a medical examination.
Performing a procedure
How to do a phenol face peel? On the appointed date, after preparation, the beautician begins to perform phenol peeling:
- The skin is cleaned of cosmetics, dirt, secretions from sweat and fat. An alcohol solution is being processed.
- Local anesthesia of the treated area is performed.
- Then they start peeling from problem areas, gradually moving to sensitive areas. Usually, the forehead is treated first, and then the cheeks, the area around the mouth and eyes, nose, and chin. The agent is distributed, intermittently, to prevent the accumulation of phenol in the blood.
- Then the phenolic acid is neutralized. To do this, a film is applied to the involved part, and after a while, low-melting wax.
- Finally, a sunscreen is applied to the skin.
When choosing a clinic for peeling, the severity of the procedure should be taken into account. You should read the reviews of patients who have undergone such treatment. It is important to find out about the availability of certificates and permits for procedures. The health of patients depends on the skills of specialists.
Nuances
It is important to know what happens to the component when it enters the body and how is it excreted? As mentioned, phenol is a toxic component that breaks down into components, so it must be remembered that it should be neutralized and removed from the patient's body.
Initially, it enters the intestines and breaks down into 2 components, and then it is absorbed into the liver, where the body modifies it, turning it into a safe and water-soluble component. Then it is eliminated with the help of the kidneys. This process will not allow you to stay in the body for a long time and affect the functioning of internal organs. It turns out that the less phenol is used during the session, the less it penetrates into the body.
Area of treated skin
Since the component is absorbed into the human body through the skin. Its concentration depends on how much the solution is applied. The cultivated area is also important.
As evidenced by the reviews of experts, they advise performing superficial peeling, and deep peeling in exceptional cases. This is no coincidence. For example, the speed of processing with 2% phenol can be fatal, since a lot of the substance enters the body and the internal organs cannot cope with processing.
The performed studies confirm that the component should be applied slowly. It is also important that not the whole face should be treated, but problem areas. Then the phenol will not be toxic, so it will not be able to adversely affect the body.
Another important nuance that should be taken into account before performing mipiling is the characteristics of the body and the functioning of organs - the liver, kidneys, heart. Enzyme systems remove phenol from the body. And if the systems do not perform their functions well, they may not survive. Given the feedback from doctors, testing and passing by doctors is required to confirm that there is no great risk of the procedure for health.
Houses
In order not to bring the matter to negative consequences, safety measures and high sterility must be observed during the session. Therefore, phenol peeling at home is not allowed. This can cause severe burns, infection with staphylococci and intoxication of the body. Only a professional in a qualified center should carry out the procedure.
Recovery
After peeling, when the anesthesia wears off, an acid burn can lead to painful sensations, burning, so the cosmetologist prescribes painkillers. He also gives recommendations on the rules of rehabilitation:
- On the 1st day, skin contact with water should not be allowed. It is necessary to drink through a straw.
- On the 2nd day, the wax film can be removed. Together with it, dead cells, keratinized layers and wrinkles, scars are eliminated. There will be red skin under the film. Usually there is a feeling of tightness, coarsening, so an antiseptic is applied to the epidermis. If necessary, an analgesic and a moisturizer are applied. Some cosmetologists advise using panthenol during this period.
- Up to 10-14 days, panthenol is applied to the skin. Appearing crusts should not be torn off, as they are removed by themselves. Do not use decorative cosmetics.
- During rehabilitation, antioxidants, vitamins A, C should be taken, and sunscreens SPF 50 or higher should be applied to the skin.
- After 3 weeks, the skin will be transformed, but it is necessary to wait until the final recovery. After removing the crusts, natural moisturizers can be applied. Recovery is completed in 6-12 months.
This is how it works in a professional setting. According to experts, the implementation of all stages allows you to get excellent results.
Complications
Non-compliance with the rules of preparation and skin care after cleansing, violation of the rules of the procedure leads to negative effects. After phenol peeling, the appearance of:
- Hyperpigmentation. Gradually it passes, it all depends on the type and structure of the skin.
- Deformities, sagging of the lower eyelid.
- Chemical burn marks, usually near the lips and eyes.
- Redness on the face that does not disappear until 4 months.
- Strengthening of herpes, manifestations of infections.
- Problems in the work of the heart and kidneys.
- Noticeable difference in areas that have been cultivated compared to untouched areas.
The procedure results in skin firmness without surgery. Given the reviews, before agreeing to carry it out, you should familiarize yourself with the pros and cons, as well as undergo an examination and prepare for a long recovery.
Advantages and disadvantages
Like any other procedure, phenol peeling has advantages and disadvantages. The advantages include:
- Result efficiency.
- Careful control of the application of the composition.
- Preservation of anti-aging action for 7-10 years.
- Restoring the functions of the epidermis, improving its structure.
- Elimination of pigmentation, freckles, scars, deep wrinkles.
- Wrinkle smoothing.
- Increase skin tone.
- Activation of body systems.
Among the shortcomings are:
- The presence of contraindications.
- Long-term rehabilitation. Even with superficial peeling, it is at least 2 weeks.
- The complexity of the preparation, which consists of a long medical examination.
- Painfulness of the procedure on the excretory and cardiovascular systems.
- Requires anesthesia. If the procedure is superficial and median, then local anesthesia is needed, and for deep, intravenous anesthesia is required.
- risk of complications.
It should be borne in mind that phenol reacts with medical agents, so it is important to follow the advice of the specialist who performed the cleansing. According to professionals, the postoperative period is important.
Precaution
Since the procedure has many contraindications, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or cosmetologist about its implementation. This is especially important for those who have acute or chronic skin diseases.
In addition to contraindications, side effects should be taken into account, which the cosmetologist should inform about. After the procedure, the appearance of:
- increased allergies;
- exacerbation of herpetic disease;
- loss of pigment production by the skin.
In addition, with tanned or swarthy skin, a visually distinguishable border between the untreated skin and the part that has been treated may appear. The cosmetologist should warn the patient about all and other nuances.
Although there are many contraindications and side effects, the safety of the procedure is still at a high level. If you perform such peeling once, for several years the skin will remain young and fresh. Judging by the reviews, many women managed to appreciate the benefits of such cleansing from personal experience.
Price
What is the price of a phenol peel? The cost depends on many factors - the region, the status of the professional center. The type of procedure also matters. The cost of phenol facial peeling (superficial) is about 3,000 rubles. For the middle one you will have to pay 12,000 rubles. And the price of phenol facial peeling (deep) is 25,000 rubles. Reviews say that you should not be tempted by too little price. It may be due to insufficient qualifications of the master, savings on sterilization of tools and equipment, or the use of low-quality preparations and materials.
Thus, phenol peeling is one of the effective rejuvenation procedures. If it is carried out in professional conditions and by a specialist, then positive results can be expected.