If you have superficial wrinkles, blotchy pigmentation, and other signs of sun damage, then a chemical peels solution may be used to improve your appearance. This is one of the least invasive ways to improve the appearance of your skin. Additionally, they are helpful in treating superficial scars and can improve certain pigment problems. Although chemical peels are primarily used on the face, they can also be used as a treatment to improve the skin on your neck, décolletage and hands.
With Chemical Peels You Can Improve
- Age and liver spots
- Freckles
- Acne or acne scars
- Scars
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Irregular skin pigmentation
- Rough skin and scaly patches
Chemical peels, which come with varying degrees of concentration, are applied to the skin. It removes the skin’s top layer which leaves you with a sunburned appearance. No bandages are necessary and your skin is kept moist with lotions and ointments. Your skin will usually peel within five to seven days, and you can then subtly apply make-up.
The lightest strength chemical peels are called Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s) and examples are lactic acids. When applied, they produce a mild exfoliation and require serial applications for best results.
Three Levels of Chemical Peeling
Depending upon the condition of your skin, there are three levels of chemical peeling.
Light Chemical Peel
Skin condition: uneven pigment, dryness and tone/texture.
A light chemical peel removes just the outer layer of skin called epidermis in a light exfoliation. This typically results in a healthier glow.
Chemical used: Your health care provider will use a combination of mild chemicals including alphahydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids. Examples of these chemicals are: glycolic acid, salicylic acid, maleic acid and lactic acid. To achieve your desired results, you can repeat these light chemical peel treatments on a weekly basis for up to six weeks.
Light Chemical Peel Process:
- Your face will be thoroughly cleansed.
- The chemical peel solution is carefully brushed onto your skin and left for up to 10 minutes. You may experience some mild stinging.
- The chemical peel is then washed off and neutralized.
- Return once a month to maintain your vibrant new look.
Medium Chemical Peel
Skin condition: Uneven skin color / Texture.
A medium chemical peel removes skin cells from both the outer layer of skin called epidermis and upper part of your middle layer of skin called the dermis.
Medium Chemical Peel Process:
- Your face will be thoroughly cleansed.
- The medium chemical solution is carefully brushed onto your skin and left for just a few minutes. You may experience some burning or stinging.
- Your skin may turn red for a few hours just following the medium chemical peel.
- It may take up to six weeks for your skin to look normal.
- Your skin will be noticeably smoother and fresher-looking.
You may repeat a medium chemical peel treatment every six to 12 months to maintain your glowing new skin.
Deep Chemical Peel Process:
A deep chemical peel usually requires a pretreatment process for up to four to six weeks. This is needed to prepare your skin for the deep chemical peel. It also helps to speed the healing process. Pretreatment may include the use of Retin A. This is a prescription medication derived from vitamin A. Retin A works to exfoliate the skin’s surface layer which allows the chemical solution to penetrate more deeply and evenly. If you have difficulty tolerating Retin A, your health care provider may prescribe another medication for your pre-treatment process. You will be given a sedative to relax, as well as a local anesthetic to freeze your face. Your face will be thoroughly cleansed.
Trichloroacetic acid is brushed onto the area.
If you have severe wrinkling, your health care provider may choose to cover your skin with adhesive tape strips.
Jessner Peel / 30 min
The Jessner Peel is a medium-depth peel designed to treat skin damage from sun exposure and conditions such as Rosacea. The Jessner Peel formula is made from salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resotcinal.
ZO 3-Step Peel / 30 min
Ideal or acne, melasma, sun damage, fine lines, texture, large pores, and dullness. Works by removing the outer layer of the epidermis, stimulating new collagen production revealing a new, softer complexion. Series of 3 recommended.
Red Carpet Peel / 30 min
Reveal glowing, healthy skin cells with our proprietary blend of acids with no downtime and no physical peeling. Also known as the “Stimulator” peel.