Phenol Peel (Baker-Gordon Peel)

What is a phenol peel?

A phenol peel or Baker-Gordon Peel is a combination deep chemical peel offering intense, aggressive skin resurfacing. A chemical solution composed of phenol and croton oil moves through the epidermis (top skin layer), papillary dermis, and reticular dermis (where hair roots, sebaceous and sweat glands, blood vessels, and the protein matrix of collagen and elastin exist).

Phenol peels are used to create significant and lasting results although this comes at the expense of increased recovery time and side effect risk. A phenol peel smooths skin tone/texture, reduces signs of aging (fine lines and wrinkles), lessens the appearance of sun damage, evens out skin discoloration, diminishes scar visibility, and treats certain precancerous skin growths.

What cosmetic concerns does a phenol peel treat?

A phenol peel moves through multiple skin layers for intense exfoliation in combination with activation of the body’s healing mechanisms for new skin growth.

1. Acne Scars & Scars: Phenol oil penetrates numerous dermal layers to debride and remove scar tissue.
2. Uneven Skin Tone: Dermal layer penetration removes collections of hyperpigmented cells for a more even skin tone.
3. Uneven Skin Texture: Phenol oil breaks down deposits of dead/damaged skin cells and sebum.
4. Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Phenol oil creates high cell turnover for a significantly refreshed complexion.
5. Facial Skin Laxity: Collagen stimulation firms and tightens skin.

Who is the ideal candidate for a phenol peel?

The ideal candidate for a phenol peel is an individual with a light skin tone looking to create significant improvements to their facial complexion with an adequate amount of time to dedicate to recovery. Phenol peels are not recommended for those with darker skin tones due to a high risk of hypopigmentation, anyone with active skin lesions/infections, sunburns, or those who are nursing or pregnant.

What is the average recovery associated with a phenol peel procedure?

There are, at a minimum, two weeks of acute downtime following a phenol peel. Throbbing, burning, red, swollen, severely crusted, and peeling skin lasts for about two weeks, although some of these side effects may last for several months. Special skin bandages and dedicated skin care are essential during the first few post-procedure days to weeks.

Patients are to abstain from most activities and work for two weeks. As results finalize, the new skin may have a different pigmentation and have lost the ability to tan. Diligent skin care, reduced sun exposure, and broad spectrum sunscreen are necessary to assist recovery, and create the best results.

What are the potential side effects of a phenol peel procedure?

Possible side effects following a phenol peel include local infection, contact dermatitis, irritation, burning, pruritus, pain, persistent erythema, edema, blistering. Delayed side effects may include scarring, delayed healing, milia, textural changes, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, lines of demarcation, loss of cutaneous barrier and tissue injury, and acneiform eruptions

What can someone expect from the results of a phenol peel procedure?

The results of a phenol peel develop after several months once the skin has peeled and rejuvenated. Dramatic, lasting enhancements to the complexion following one deep peel treatment will last years. The results naturally evolve with aging, use, and sun damage.

What is the average cost of a phenol peel procedure?

Phenol peels cost anywhere from $700 to $6,000. The actual cost of a phenol peel is dependent upon location, provider, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure. Learn more in our complete guide to the cost of chemical peels.