Chemical Peel

You should not have a chemical peel if you:

• are using Accutane
• are using Retin-A (unless discontinued 1 week prior)
• allergies to aspirin and salicylates
• have active cold sores
• have dormant eczema
• are pregnant or lactatin

Chemical peels will significantly transform your skin by promoting a healthy youthful glow, softening fine lines, fading dark spots and discoloration, and diminishing enlarged pores and acne scars.

The chemical peel removes the top layers of the skin. This stimulates the basal cell layer to regenerate new cells more quickly. By peeling off aged or sun-damaged skin, the skin takes on a healthier, fresher, less aged appearance. Wrinkles on the face will appear softer. Chemical peels also help to clear acne breakouts more rapidly. The peeling action helps to bring the closed and open comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) closer to the surface, helping to clear your complexion faster.

Chemical peels are a very safe and predictable procedure that can be used on any skin type including Caucasian, Asian, Black or Mediterranean. However, consult with you skin specialist regarding the improvement you can expect. Based on the current condition of your skin, and your health history, your specialist will recommend the peel that is right for you.

Once your skin has been cleansed and prepared with a prep solution, the chemicals are applied. The application process takes approximately 15-30 minutes depending on the strength of the chemical solution and how many layers of application are used. Some of the peels are rinsed off and others stay on the skin to penetrate on a deeper level. During and after application some slight stinging and burning may occur. Usually the level of discomfort will diminish quickly. After the procedure your skin will feel soft and smooth, sometimes tight, and you may experience a slight superficial anesthesia to light touch. This is your skin’s natural reaction to chemical stimulation and should diminish within 30-60 minutes after the treatment.

You may be more sensitive to the sun, so limit your sun exposure during the treatment time and for at least one week after the treatment. You should use daily sun protection with total UV protection of SPF 40 or higher. Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 2-3 days, as the perspiration may irritate the skin. When washing your face, do not scrub. Use a gentle cleanser and avoid wearing foundation during the days when your skin is actually peeling. Do not “help” your skin to peel to avoid scarring or rashes. Do not have any other facial treatment for at least one week after your peeling is completed. You may resume use of Retin-A, alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) products or bleaching agents only after the peeling process is complete. We provide detailed post-peel instructions to our clients.

The intensity of the peel depends on the strength and type of the peel. You may not experience visible peeling with lighter peels. With stronger peels visible peeling will occur usually 2-4 days following the procedure. The peeling will last approximately 3-7 days. Some mild itching and irritation may occur during the peeling process, which is your skin’s normal response.

A personal consultation is the first step for everyone considering a Chemical Peel treatment. During this consultation your skin specialist will evaluate your skin type, discuss your specific cosmetic goals, the severity of any sun damage, uneven pigmentation and surface imperfections. The consultation will help determine which chemical procedure can offer you the greatest benefits based on your individual situation.

For the best result, it is advisable to avoid sun exposure and the following products and procedures at least one week prior to treatment:

• Treatments: Electrolysis, waxing, delapitory creams -Products: Any Retin-A, Renova, Differin (Adapalene 0.1%) Tazorac. Any products containing Retinol, Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide.
• Any exfoliating product that may be drying or irritating.
• Shaving the area to be peeled should be avoided on the day of the peel.

Light Chemical exfoliations produce little or no peeling as it removes very superficial skin layers. Those peels can be received as a series of treatments as often as every week. The stronger the peel the longer the distance in between should be. The amount of chemical treatments you receive will depend upon your skin type, your discomfort level during the peeling process, how much your skin peels the first time, and the goals that you and your skin specialist have agreed upon.