Chemical Peels

Chemical peels address the visible skin imperfections that result from skin aging and sun exposure, such as fine lines and wrinkles as well as uneven skin tone and texture. Peels also address skin tone unevenness that can be caused by acne scarring or pigmentary changes. There are a variety of contraindications such as Accutane use within the last year, herpes outbreaks, or plastic surgery within the last 3 months. A full medical history will be taken prior to your peel to make sure this is a safe treatment for you.

Chemical peeling is a procedure that aims to accelerate skin exfoliation by using chemical substances resulting in renewed, healthier looking skin and a more uniform complexion. In a chemical peel, a chemical solution is applied to the skin and allowed to soak in. Over the next 1 to 7 days, the skin peels off. This procedure destroys parts of the skin in a controlled way so that new skin can grow in its place. The types of chemical peels used differ based on how deeply the chemical penetrates and what type of chemical solution is used. Our peels are designed to improve the texture and appearance of your skin, revealing a more youthful and radiant complexion. We also offer chemical peels that are good treatment options for our clients who suffer from acne or rosacea. After chemical peels, clients can notice an improvement in the appearance of overall skin condition and smoothness of skin texture, diminishment of the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, more even skin color, and improved skin clarity. The extent of these improvements will depend on the aggressiveness of the peels chosen. For maximum benefit a series of chemical peels may be needed.

A full medical history will be taken prior to your chemical peel to make sure you do not have any health conditions or are taking any medications that would make you a poor candidate for a chemical peel. Prior to your chemical peel you may be asked to avoid certain treatments and products. This will be determined during your initial consultation. You will also need to avoid excessive sun exposure, tanning beds and artificial tans 2 weeks prior to your chemical peel. For best results we recommend starting a good skin care regimen a minimum of 30 days prior to receiving your chemical peel. Our skin care consultants will make product recommendations prior to your treatment. Be sure to ask about our complimentary VISIA Complexion Analysis. This will allow you to track the positive changes you will see in your skin!

The complete treatment is expected to take 45 minutes, which includes ample time to address any questions you may have and discuss your post-peel care. The actual application procedure is approximately 20 minutes. Tolerance to the procedure varies from patient to patient. Tingling or burning sensations are normal and expected reactions. A handheld fan can be used during the procedure to minimize discomfort, which usually subsides in a few minutes. We will apply a sunscreen to protect your skin prior to you leaving our office.

We recommend an initial series of 3 peels spaced 3 to 6 weeks apart depending on the peel used. This will offer the maximum benefit. Some people may require additional peels if there is extensive skin damage or stubborn skin conditions such as acne or rosacea. How often you need to repeat your peels will depend on how you take care of your skin after the peel. If you use proper skin care, and avoid excessive sun exposure and smoking, you can expect to have better results. Your skin will, however, continue to age and be exposed to environmental stressors so an occasional maintenance peel should be done to ensure you maintain your results. Your skin care provider can work with you to develop a maintenance plan designed specifically for your needs.

Chemical peels can leave a yellowish or orange tinge on the skin that is expected to last no longer than 2-3 hours. Mild to moderate redness is expected after any type of chemical peel procedure. The extent of redness varies from patient to patient. The face may appear redder than usual for some time after the treatment; this will completely resolve after the peeling is complete. You can expect active peeling to last anywhere from 1 to 7 days. The amount of peeling varies and is not necessarily a determinate for the success of the peel. You will be sent home with full post-procedure instructions and recommendations on what products to use immediately following your peel. We suggest using a gentle cleanser, Ceramide Treatment Cream, and a broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen until your peeling has completed. You can then resume your normal skin care routine. Our staff will be happy to recommend products that are designed to help best maintain and enhance your results. Extra precaution must be taken to avoid sun exposure following the peel. You will be required to use a broad spectrum NON-CHEMICAL sun block with an SPF of 30 or higher. Be sure to bring your sunscreen to your appointment to make sure it will not irritate your skin. You will need to limit sun exposure at least one week after your peel. Strenuous exercise should also be avoided for 2-3 days due to increased skin irritation caused by perspiration.

How long the results of your peel last will depend on how you take care of your skin after the peel. If you use proper skin care, and avoid excessive sun exposure and smoking, you can expect to have better results. Your skin will, however, continue to age and be exposed to environmental stressors so an occasional maintenance peel every 6 to 12 months should be done to ensure you maintain your results. Your skin care provider can work with you to develop a maintenance plan designed specifically for your needs.

Chemical peels are a cosmetic procedure and therefore are not covered by insurance. We do offer CareCredit, a 6 to 12 month interest-free payment plan designed for medical and cosmetic procedures.

Schedule a consultation with our doctor or estheticians. During this consultation you can explore all options for achieving the results you desire. We will be happy to discuss how chemical peels could be a part of a skin rejuvenation plan designed to meet your needs.