Chemical Peel Treatments
Chemical Peels have been used for decades in medical cosmetology. They work by chemically removing the outermost layer of the skin and give the skin a younger, healthier appearance. Chemical Peels play a very important role in Skin Rejuvenation as they remove skin dullness, blotching, age and sun spots and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. In general, they can be used as a stand alone procedure or as a part of a Combo Treatment together with other procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chemical Peel Treatments
What is it a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a special chemical solution to be applied for a very short period of time (a few minutes only) to exert a desired beneficial effect by removing the outermost layer of the skin or deeper skin layers. There are three basic types of the chemical peels: superficial, medium and deep. They differ with regard to the depth to which they penetrate the skin. A chemical peel is applied to the skin in the area where you need beneficial changes like removing of sun damage or to control acne. Peels can be applied to your face, neck, décolleté, arms, hands, back or legs.
What are the Indications for Chemical Peels?
Chemical Peels provide a good solution for:
- Skin Rejuvenation
- Reduction of fine lines and small wrinkles
- Reduction/removal of age spots
- Reduction/removal of sun damage
- Reduction of hyperpigmentation and melasma
- Reduction of scars and acne scars
- Acne
What the Chemical Peels cannot do?
Chemical peel will not remove medium or deep acne scars and will not clear skin from acne if used as a stand-alone procedure.
What COMBO Treatments include Chemical Peels?
Any combination therapy for skin rejuvenation may include a chemical peel if medically indicated and if chemical peels are appropriate for a skin of a given Client. If skin is very sensitive, chemical peels are not used. Examples of effective combos for skin rejuvenation include chemical peels + microdermabrasion, chemical peels + photofacials, etc.
What is the Chemical Peel Treatment Session like?
Upon examining your particular skin condition by our Cosmetic Physician, the Skin Care Therapist working under his direct supervision, will cleanse the skin, apply protective eye pads, and gently distribute a prescribed peel solution using a special brush. The peel will stay on your skin for a determined period of time (between 3 and 5 minutes) or until the end point of the treatment will be reached. Then, the peel on the surface of your skin will be neutralized, and the chemical removed from the skin by rinsing it thoroughly.
At the end of the session, a gentle moisturizer will be applied to your skin and in the case of your face or neck a sun block will be applied as well.
Who performs the Treatment?
All chemical peels in the MD Spa and Laser Clinic are superficial as we do not engage in peels with a lot of side effects and downtime. Peels up to the strength of 30 inclusive are applied by our Skin Care Therapists (Advanced Medical Estheticians and/or RN) working under the supervision of a Cosmetic Physician; for peels of higher strength (40 – 70), the Cosmetic Physician is present during the peel application.
What are the Side Effects of Chemical Peels?
For the Fruit and Glycolic peels used in the clinic, the expected side effect is a sensation of tingling to the skin during the application, and a perception of skin tightness. Your face may be minimally pink for several hours after a treatment. With special care, there are no other expected side effects.
Can I start my Treatments with strong Peels?
Everyone is started on Chemical Peels using a step-up approach and this requires that strength of peels will be gradually increased. A response of your skin to a peel applied previously will guide us in stepping-up your treatments.
How Many Peels do I need?
You will be advised during your consultation as to the number of sessions. Usually 4-8 sessions are needed for a significant effect, depending on your condition and your skin. Treatments are usually offered every 10-14 days or as needed.
Are there any special precautions I need to follow?
You should stop any exfoliation procedures performed at home at least one week before your peel and you must wear a sun block at all times. You must stop use any cream containing retinol or hydroquinone at least 7 days before your first peel.
