Chemical Peels

Chemical peels help reveal more youthful, radiant looking skin by accelerating the skin exfoliation process. The removal of damaged outer layers of skin can make skin appear smoother and reduce scarring and blemishes. At your consultation your skin will be evaluated and the most appropriate skin regimen for your skin type and goals will be recommended. The peels offered range from light peels, meant to brighten the appearance of skin and add glow, great for special events, to strong peels aimed to treat moderate to severe skin imperfections, such as pigment changes, wrinkles and scarring. The number of suggested treatments is based on your goals, initial level of skin damage and peel strength. Results are cumulative, and the best results are seen with successive treatments spaced appropriately.

Chemical Peel Procedure

Skin is cleansed and prepped prior to the solution application. Petroleum jelly may be put on the skin in certain sensitive areas prior to the solution application. A neutralizing solution may be applied to the skin, depending on the peel used. Sunscreen will be applied to the skin.

Potential Side Effects Of Chemical Peels

Peels can result in temporary tingling, burning, redness and irritation, as well as flaking and crusting as the skin exfoliating process occurs, typically days 3-4. Throbbing, a crust or scab and swelling can occur, depending on the strength of the peel used and can last about a week. Though complications following chemical peels are infrequent, pigment changes (hyper/hypopigmentation), skin infection, white heads, cold sores and scarring may occur. The potential side effects and risks will be explained in more depth at the time of your appointment.

Prior To Peel Appointment

Avoid excess sun.

Discontinue any retinol/retinoid products, prednisone, blood thinners, benzoyl peroxide or topical steroids you use at least 2 weeks prior to your peel.

Let us know if you have a history of cold sores when scheduling your appointment. We will provide treatment prior to your peel to help to prevent a flare.

After your peel

Use gentle skin products for washing and moisturizing the first 5 days. Avoid active anti-aging products within this time frame.

Since exfoliated skin is more susceptible to sunburn, daily sunscreen application with a broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher is recommended.

Re-start your retinol/retinoid 7 days after your peel, as long as your skin has completely healed.

The content of this website is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute formal medical advice. Information about conditions or procedures will be formally provided for you at your appointment.