Q: What are chemical peels?

A: A chemical peel is one of the least invasive ways to improve the appearance of your skin. Although chemical peels are used mostly on the face, they can also be used to improve the skin on your neck and back.  Chemical peels produce controlled injury to the skin which promotes growth of new skin.

 

Q: What are chemical peels used for?

A: A chemical peel is a treatment technique used to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin using a chemical solution that causes the dead skin to slough or peel off. The regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. Thus the term chemical peel is derived. Chemical peels are used for the treatment of photoaging (from sun damage), wrinkles, scarring, acne and discoloration (including melasma, freckles, and age spots).

 

Q: How are chemical peels performed?

A: At the time of treatment, the skin is thoroughly cleansed with an agent that removes excess oils, and the eyes and hair are protected. One or more chemical solutions –  such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or lactic acid; trichloroacetic acid (TCA); or carbolic acid (phenol) – are used. These produce a controlled wound, enabling new, refreshed skin to appear. Most patients experience a warm to somewhat hot sensation which lasts about five to ten minutes.

 

Q:What will my skin feel like after a chemical peel?

A: Superficial peeling usually involves redness, followed by scaling that ends within three to seven days. It is important to avoid overexposure to the sun after a chemical peel since the new skin is fragile and more susceptible to complications. The state of your skin after a peel depends on what kind of peel you had. The superficial peels have limited effects, the medium peels may cause some redness.

 

Q: How many peels will I need?

A: Receiving a series of chemical exfoliation treatments will yield the best results. Our medical estheticians will guide you through a skin care program that consists of treatments and skin care products that are suitable for your specific needs. The superficial peels are usually done several times over the course of several months. The deeper peels usually only need to be performed once to achieve the desired effect.

 

Q: How long do the results last?

With good sun protection, results can last months or years, depending on the depth of the peel. Generally, the deeper peels have a more long lasting effect.

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Post Chemical Peel

• Do wash twice a day with a gentle cleanser and liberally apply a bland moisturizer after cleansing and throughout the day as needed to prevent dryness and formation of crust (Aquaphor, Cetaphil, CeraVe).

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• Do not vigorously rub the skin and do not pick at the flaking skin as this may cause scarring.

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• Sun protection is critical. You should not have prolonged sun exposure for a week; wear a broad spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30. This includes driving to work. Do not use a tanning bed

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•Avoid laser treatments, waxing, the use of depilatories, or microdermabrasion for a week.

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• Do wait 7 days before resuming the use of Retin-a (tretinoin), Renova, Differin, Tazorac, Ziana, Veltin, Atralin, glycolic acids or any other exfoliating agents such as a Clarisonic Brush.

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• Avoid swimming, sauna, or whirlpool use for at least 7 days after the peel.

 

• If you were instructed to take an antiviral medication, do complete the prescribed course.

 

• Consider scheduling a complimentary “Hydration Appointment” around day 4 or 5 if desired, but this is not mandatory.

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• The procedure may cause redness, crusting, dryness, skin sensitivity, itching, and peeling of the site which could last for up to a week. In the days after the peel, the skin may feel and look tight, with parchment-paper like changes or darkening. These are expected reactions.

 

We want you to have an outstanding result. If you have any questions or unexpected concerns, please call the office for assistance.

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Pre-Chemical Peel

. Discontinue use of Retin-A, Retinol, AHA's and BHA's.

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. Do not wax, have prolonged sun exposure or exfoliate three days prior to your peel.

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