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PEEL AWAY SKIN IMPERFECTIONS

CHEMICAL PEELS

Reveal younger, healthier-looking skin one layer at a time

WHAT IS A CHEMICAL PEEL?

SUPERFICIAL PEEL

Superficial peels are the mildest type of chemical peel and can be used on all skin types. Alpha-hydroxy acid or another mild acid is used to penetrate only the outer layer of skin to gently exfoliate it. The treatment is used to improve the appearance of mild skin discoloration and rough skin as well as to refresh the face, neck, chest or hands.

MEDIUM PEEL

Glycolic or trichloroacetic acid is applied to penetrate the out and middle layers of skin to remove damaged skin cells. The treatment is used to improve age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, freckles and moderate skin discoloration. It also can be used to smooth rough skin and treat some precancerous skin growths, i.e. actinic keratosis.

DEEP PEEL

Tricholoracetic acid or phenol is applied to deeply penetrate the middle layer of skin to remove damaged skin cells. The treatment removes moderate lines, age spots, freckles and shallow scars. Patients will see a dramatic improvement in skin appearance. The procedure is used on the face and only can be performed once.

OBAGI BLUE PEELS

Whether the result of the sun, hereditary factors or simply the act of aging, chemical peels cause damage or dead skin to simply fall away, allowing new, smoother skin to regenerate and replace it with healthy, vibrant skin. Millions of people have chemical peels every year. They can be performed in conjunction with other treatments such as the microdermabrasion or enhanced by laser treatments. Chemical peels take from as little as 15 minutes to, typically, no more than an hour. Makes for a great lunch time procedure.

Blue Peel RADIANCE Before & After

Blue Peel RADIANCE Before & After

Chemical Peel FAQs

What do chemical peels do?

Chemical peeling agents resurface the skin by inducing a controlled wound and thus removing superficial layers of the skin. As a result, chemical peels promote the growth of a new healthy top skin layer and improve skin problems like hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven texture and skin impurities.

Chemical peels are used to treat a number of conditions including:

  • Acne scars
  • Aging skin
  • Crow's feet
  • Scars
  • Sun damaged skin
  • Sagging skin
  • Wrinkles

Procedures may vary dependent on the type of chemical peel chosen. Skin is prepped using a medical degreaser to ensure the treated area is free of any oils left on the skin. The chemical agent is then applied and typically remains on the skin for 3 to 5 minutes. Most patients feel a mild stinging which is temporary and usually subsides after a few minutes. Some peels are designed to self neutralize and may remain on your skin for 2-4 hours.

Recovery times will vary based on the type and strength of the peel. Immediately after the peel, your skin will feel tight and may be red. Any visible peeling will be light and fluffy and easily controlled with moisturizer. Peeling usually lasts 3-5 days, depending on the actual peel treatment. Use of gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen is important, as it will enhance the healing process and results. Normal activity may be resumed after the peel, however strenuous exercise and heavy sweating should be avoided for 2-3 days. Sun exposure should be avoided while skin is peeling; exposure of treated skin to a lot of heat should also be avoided as it may induce swelling, redness and for deeper peels blisters under the skin. Peeling skin should be allowed to slough off naturally; picking or peeling of flaking skin is prohibited, as it may lead to scarring. Use of prescription topicals should be avoided for 3-5 days post peel.

The success of the peel should not be judged by the amount of peeling, but by the end results that the peel will produce. The amount of peeling may vary depending on individual skin condition at the time of the peel or the depth of the peel. Regardless of the degree of peeling, the skin is still sloughing off at an accelerated rate, resulting in the improvement of skin tone and texture and an improvement of fine lines and uneven pigmentation.

• One week before the peel avoid waxing, electrolysis, deploritory creams, and laser hair removal.
• Two to three days before the peel discontinue using any prescription topicals such as Retin-A, differin or Tazorac, as well as any products containing retinol, alpha hydroxyl acids (AHA), beta hydroxyl acids (BHA) or benzoyl peroxide.
• Patients who have had any medical cosmetic facial treatments or procedures such as Laser treatments, cosmetic fillers or other surgical procedures should wait until skin sensitivity has completely resolved before receiving a peel.

Use of a soap free gentle cleanser shall be used to wash your face, scrubs and wash cloths should be avoided while skin is peeling. Application of a hydrating moisturizer twice a day or as often as necessary is recommended to relieve dryness and control peeling. TNS ceramide cream, Elta intense moisturizer or Neocutis bio cream are all highly suggested. A physical Sunblock must be worn daily. Its best to avoid prolonged sun exposure for 1-week post peel.

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