Our skin is comprised of several layers. As new cells grow below, older cells shed off the top layer of the skin. A chemical peel works to hasten this process, revealing newer and healthier cells below the skin’s surface. To do this, a chemical peel uses acids that raise the acidity of the skin to about 3.8 pH. This shift in acidity loosens the substance that adheres dead cells to healthier skin below. A chemical peel can cause redness and irritation but this tends to heal quickly, leaving the skin refreshed and healthy.
The treatment area will be wiped with 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.
Discontinue use of any topical retinoids (Retin-A, Tazorac, Differin, Ziana, Epiduo, Tretinoin, Clear Plus, Avene Retrinal or Triacneal, Triluma, etc.) and mechanical or granular exfoliation for five days prior to treatment. Avoid facial waxing for seven days prior to treatment.
Follow the recommended skin care regimen as directed by your service provider for treatment. Make sure your skin is not irritated or inflamed before a peel.
Please tell your provider if you have a history of cold sores as we recommend pretreatment to prevent a flare. Treatment may not be performed if there is an active cold sore.
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 2-4 weeks apart.
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.
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.
Downtime is dependent on the type of chemical peel performed. Skin 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.
ACNE TREATMENT – TAKEN AFTER 1 MONTH, POST 9 MONTHLY TREATMENTS
ACNE TREATMENT WITH VIPEEL
MELASMA TREATMENT WITH OBAGI
TCA TREATMENT
AFTER 7 MONTHLY CHEMICAL PEEL TREATMENTS AND THEN 8 MORE TREATMENTS EVERY OTHER MONTH
AFTER 4 MONTHLY CHEMICAL PEEL TREATMENTS AND THEN 4 MORE MONTHLY TREATMENTS
BEFORE BRIGHTENING PEEL LEVEL 2 AND 6 WEEKS POST BRIGHTENING PEEL LEVEL 2
BEFORE BRIGHTENING PEEL LEVEL 2 AND 6 WEEKS POST BRIGHTENING PEEL LEVEL 2
Chemical peels are used in the treatment of a wide range of skin conditions, including wrinkles, discolorations and scars. When used in tandem with a quality skin care regimen and topical creams, a chemical peel can leave tired, older or damaged skin looking fresh and new.
Chemical peels are also particularly effective at treating some forms of acne and can reduce the appearance of melasma resulting from pregnancy or birth control. A chemical peel can be applied on the neck or face but is also sometimes used on the hands, as they can show signs of aging not as evident elsewhere on the body.
