CHEMICAL PEELS

How does a chemical peel benefit my skin?

Chemical peels improve skin texture and firmness while decreasing fine lines and wrinkles. Chemical peels also even out skin tone, improve acne, balance oil production, and reduce pore size. The skin is left more hydrated, soft, and even.

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How do superficial chemical peels work?

Superficial chemical peels decrease pH levels, which loosens the connections between dead skin cells, inducing exfoliation and stimulating new cell growth. This process causes superficial layers of dead skin to peel off, revealing a smoother and more radiant complexion. Chemical peels can also thicken the epidermis, increase dermal volume, and stimulate collagen production. Superficial peels rarely cause side effects. However, hyperpigmentation can still occur with darker skin types.

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How do medium depth chemical peels work?

Medium and deep chemical peels cause protein coagulation and cell necrosis (cell death) in the epidermis and dermis. This induces inflammation and the wound-healing cascade, which leads to dermal regeneration including collagen stimulation. Since medium chemical peels treat through to the dermis, re-epithelialization starts from the epidermal lining. Medium and deep chemical peels require more downtime and carry with them a higher chance of side effects including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, infection and scars.

 

What should I expect after a chemical peel? Does a chemical peel hurt?

Your skin may feel like a mild sunburn; it will feel tight and dry and you should experience mild flaking/peeling within 2-3 days lasting for up to 1 week. During the treatment, you should expect a mild-moderate burning and tingling sensation. We provide you with a hand held fan to ease the discomfort. 

 

What precautions should I take prior to my treatment?

• Stop the use of retinoids for 1 week prior to treatment.

• Stop accutane use for 6 months prior to treatment.

• You can not receive this treatment if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• Consult your practitioner if you have a history of cold sores.

• Consult your practitioner if you have an autoimmune illness.

 

What is the post care of a chemical peel?

For 7 days following your treatment you must avoid:

• Waxing, threading

• Neurotoxin and dermal filler injections 

• Use of retinoids or other mechanical exfoliants

• Use of topical AHA/BHA skincare products

• Use of sunless tanning products

• Topical acne treatments