A Complete Guide to Full Body Chemical Peels for Skin Renewal

Understanding Full Body Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are a type of skin resurfacing treatment that uses a chemical solution to remove the outer damaged layers of the skin. They can be performed on the entire body to comprehensively treat skin concerns like sun damage, acne, scars, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.

Full body chemical peels are one of the more aggressive professional peel techniques. They involve applying a chemical exfoliating agent to the skin on the face, neck, chest, arms, hands, back, and legs. When performed correctly, full body peels can significantly improve skin appearance and texture.

However, full body peels require extensive preparation, proper technique, and diligent aftercare to achieve results safely. Understanding the process, benefits and risks is key to realistic expectations.

How Do Full Body Chemical Peels Work?

Chemical peels work by intentionally damaging the outer layers of skin in a controlled manner. This triggers the body’s wound healing response, resulting in:

• Exfoliation and shedding of damaged skin cells
• Stimulation of collagen production
• Regeneration of smoother, evenly pigmented new skin

Deeper full body peels penetrate down into the dermis, triggering more extensive skin rejuvenation that can address severe photoaging and scarring over a large body surface area.

What to Expect During Treatment

Here is a general overview of what to expect during a full body chemical peel treatment session:

• Cleansing and degreasing of the skin
• Application of chemical peeling solution evenly over the entire body
• Periodic reapplication as needed
• Neutralizing solution once desired peel depth is achieved
• Soothing moisturizers and balms applied at end of treatment

The process takes 60-90 minutes depending on the extensiveness of the peel. Sensations will range from stinging to intense burning as the peel solution penetrates the skin.

Types of Chemicals Used

The most commonly used peel solutions for full body treatments include:

• Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid - Clears dead skin cells and stimulates collagen.
• Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid - Penetrates oil and debris in pores.
• Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) - Deeper penetration to treat severe sun damage, wrinkles and scars.
• Phenol - The strongest and deepest peel for extensive photodamage and scarring.

The chemical used depends on the condition being treated and depth of peel desired. Your provider will determine the best solution for your individual needs.

Benefits of Full Body Chemical Peels

When performed by an experienced, qualified provider, full body chemical peels offer many skin renewal benefits, including:

Smoothes Fine Lines and Wrinkles

By improving collagen production and increasing skin thickness, body peels can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and crepey skin from head to toe.

Evens Out Skin Tone

The exfoliation reveals fresh new skin and triggers regeneration of evenly pigmented cells to lighten dark spots and address tone irregularities.

Refines Skin Texture

Removing the rough, damaged outer skin layers unveils smoother, softer skin over large surface areas like arms, legs, back, etc.

Minimizes Enlarged Pores

Body peels clear away debris, oil, and impurities trapped in pores, causing them to appear tighter and smaller across the body.

Reduces Acne and Breakouts

Peels help eliminate acne-causing bacteria and promote skin cell turnover to prevent clogged pores and pimples from forming.

Improves Sun Damage and Scars

Deeper peels can reduce dyspigmentation and the appearance of severe scarring resulting from surgery, burns, acne, etc.

With just 1-3 full body peel treatments, most patients see dramatic improvement in skin appearance, texture, tone, and clarity.

Who is a Candidate for a Full Body Peel?

Full body chemical peels work best for those who are in overall good health and meet the following criteria:

• Have moderate to severe skin damage or scarring on large body areas
• Skin phototypes III-V on the Fitzpatrick scale
• No active skin infections, open wounds, or inflammatory conditions
• No history of bad scarring or keloids
• Have not had a peel recently
• Realistic expectations of the results

Pregnant or breastfeeding women usually need to postpone full body peels until after delivery. Certain medications like isotretinoin may cause complications. Discuss eligibility thoroughly during consultation.

Preparation for a Full Body Peel Treatment

Proper preparation before a full body chemical peel is critical for safety and good outcomes. Your provider will give detailed instructions, but common preparation guidelines include:

• Stop using exfoliating products 1-2 weeks before to avoid over-exfoliation.
• Avoid medications that cause photosensitivity for 1 week prior.
• Do not wax or bleach hair on treatment areas for 1 week before.
• Stay out of the sun and use sunscreen diligently for 2 weeks pre-treatment.
• Hydrate the skin thoroughly in the days leading up to the peel.
• Arrange for transportation, since driving immediately after is not recommended.

Tell your provider about any medications, supplements, or other products you are using to avoid complications. Plan to set aside ample time for rest and recovery after your full body peel.

What to Expect During Recovery

While full body peels deliver excellent results, they do involve significant downtime for healing and recovery afterwards. Typical side effects and timeline include:

• Redness and Sensitivity (1-2 weeks) - Treated skin will be extremely red and fragile initially.
• Swelling and Blistering (3-5 days) - Moderate swelling and fluid-filled blisters commonly form.
• Tightness and Itching (1-2 weeks) - You may feel skin tightness and itching as it heals.
• Dryness and Flaking (1-2 weeks) - The top layers peel away, causing visible dryness and flaking.
• Risk of Infection (1-2 weeks) - Open wounds are susceptible to bacteria, so proper aftercare is vital.

Your provider will cover what to expect in detail and provide appropriate ointments, dressings, pain medication, and other supplies to care for skin during the recovery period.

Aftercare Recommendations

Proper aftercare is crucial for healing safely with minimal side effects and risks. Typical guidelines include:

• Cleanse skin very gently with cool water and mild cleanser.
• Apply prescribed ointments multiple times per day.
• Keep treated areas covered and moist with dressings.
• Take lukewarm showers until skin recovers.
• Stay out of the sun completely or wear protective clothing.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until healing is complete.
• Do not pick at peeling or flaking skin to prevent scarring.

Follow all of your provider’s recommendations diligently during the recovery period. Contact them immediately with any worrisome symptoms.

Results Timeline

The full effects of a body peel are gradual over the following timeline:

• Days 1-5: Peeling and shedding of damaged skin layers.
• Week 1: Redness, swelling, blistering, andopen wounds present.
• Weeks 2-4: Skin is regenerated and starts to appear smoother.
• Weeks 4-8: Redness and darkness resolves, tone improves.
• Months 2-3: Collagen regeneration continues to improve texture, wrinkles, scars.

Multiple treatment sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart are often recommended for optimal full body peel results. Improvements continue to develop over the subsequent months as new collagen forms.

Risks and Side Effects

When performed properly, full body peels are quite safe. But improper procedures or aftercare can cause side effects like:

• Infection
• Permanent scarring
• Skin discoloration
• Prolonged redness and swelling
• Allergic reaction
• Heart, kidney or liver damage if phenol enters bloodstream

Choose an experienced medical provider and follow all pre/post treatment guidelines to minimize risks. Discuss your complete medical history to avoid complications from underlying conditions or medications.

Contraindications

Full body chemical peels are not recommended if you have:

• Active cold sores or warts
• Skin cancer or pre-cancerous lesions
• Accutane use in the past year
• An autoimmune disorder
• A heart disorder
• Very dark skin phototypes V-VI

Inform your provider about any conditions or medications that may interfere with peel eligibility. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and some medications may also preclude treatment.

Finding a Qualified Provider

It is essential to have full body peels performed by an experienced provider able to deliver optimal results safely. Ideal practitioner options include:

• Board-certified dermatologist
• Licensed medical aesthetician under a dermatologist's supervision
• Licensed medical doctor with training in chemical peels

Beware of spas or salons offering deep body peels with insufficient medical oversight. Confirm your provider's training, credentials, experience, and adherence to safety protocols first.

The Cost of Full Body Chemical Peels

The average cost of a single full body peel treatment ranges from $1,500 to $4,000 depending on the provider and peel depth used. Many factors impact the overall price, including:

• Provider's experience level
• Geographic location
• Specific type of peel solution used
• Extensiveness of treatment areas
• Number of sessions recommended for desired results

Many practices offer package deals for multiple peel treatments at a discounted overall price. Check with your insurance - full body peels are rarely covered except for certain medical conditions.

How Long Results Last

With proper sun protection, results from a series of full body peel treatments can last about 1-2 years, including:

• Smoothed wrinkles and improved skin texture
• Lightened underlying skin discoloration
• Reduced appearance of scars and lesions
• Minimized pores and blackheads
• More even, luminous skin tone

Follow-up maintenance peels or laser treatments every 6-12 months will help sustain results. Rigorous sun protection and avoidance of smoking are also key.

Takeaways on Full Body Chemical Peels

• Full body peels exfoliate and resurface the skin from head to toe for dramatic rejuvenation.
• They treat severe sun damage, scarring, wrinkles, and pigmentation on large body areas.
• Preparation, proper technique, and aftercare are all crucial to safety and results.
• Significant downtime should be expected during the healing and recovery process.
• Multiple treatments are usually recommended for optimal outcomes over time.
• When performed correctly, full body peels can dramatically refresh the appearance and health of the skin.

If considering a full body chemical peel, consult with an experienced provider to understand the process thoroughly. Following all preparation and aftercare instructions can help you achieve beautiful, youthful looking skin safely.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.