Chemical peels are composed of acids that exfoliate dead skin cells and stimulate new skin cells to come to the surface, making your skin appear healthier and more youthful.
There are a variety of chemical peels varying in strength that target specific issues. Your aesthetician will choose which peel is best for your skin based on your skin type and goals.
Visit the Superficial, Medium and DermaPeel pages for specific pre and post-treatment instructions.
What Will the Procedure Feel Like?
The treatment area will be wiped with a pre-peel solution and then the chemical peel solution will be applied. Mild to moderate stinging at the treated site may be experienced which will diminish when the peeling agent is neutralized and resolves in several minutes. A fan may be used during the procedure to cool the skin and relieve some of the discomfort.
How Many Treatments are Necessary?
Depending on your goals, your aesthetician will work with you to customize a treatment plan. Chemical peels are rarely recommended as a single treatment service. They are most effective when received in a series of treatments spaced two to four weeks apart.
When Will I See Results?
Results will vary per patient and realistic expectations will be discussed during your first treatment. Having a good at home regimen will help attain optimum results. In addition, smoking, excessive alcohol and excessive sun exposure will limit results. Results are less dramatic when chemical peels are utilized for prevention and maintenance (treatments spaced greater than one month apart) than when utilized in a more frequent, treatment-oriented protocol.
Who Cannot Have the Treatment?
A chemical peel is safe for all skin types and colors. Patients who have taken isotretinoin (Accutane) within the previous six months cannot have the treatment. Communication with your provider is key in determining which peel will best suit you based on your skin type and concerns.
What Will I Look Like Afterwards?
Downtime is dependent on the type of chemical peel performed. The area may appear flushed followed by possible peeling one to five days post-treatment or dark brown followed by 7-10 days of peeling. The amount of peeling can vary from invisible microscopic peeling to more noticeable dry skin flaking. Care should be taken to prevent trauma to the treated area, especially during the first three days following treatment. Cleanse with a gentle cleanser (Cetaphil or CeraVe) and apply a bland moisturizer as needed. Do not apply any lotions with retinoids, acids, enzymes or tea tree oil for three days post-treatment. Avoid direct sun exposure. Daily application of a minimum SPF 30 sunblock with zinc oxide should be used after a chemical peel. Reapply when out in the sun every one hour or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Sun exposure may compromise results or result in additional pigmentation.