Chemical peels can be performed as outpatient procedures at your doctor’s office or surgery center as an outpatient service. An agent that removes excess oils is applied, while your eyes are shielded for safety.
People with darker complexions may experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after receiving a chemical peel treatment, leading to temporary brownish discoloration on their skin. This condition is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Light Peels
Light peels penetrate the outermost layers of skin to eliminate dark spots and brighten your complexion, as well as treat melasma, uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles. Results typically require multiple sessions. After receiving a chemical peel it’s important to follow doctor instructions regarding cleansing, applying ointment and protecting it from sun exposure after your session; furthermore it should also be avoided picking at or scrubbing treatment areas.
At your consultation, we will assess your skin health and appearance goals to select an ideal chemical peel. Your physician may ask questions regarding your medical history to ensure the procedure is safe.
Glycolic acid peels are an extremely popular light peel option, as they remove dead skin cells while increasing collagen production to help diminish fine lines and wrinkles. Glycolic acid peels are best suited for people who have light to moderate discoloration or hyperpigmentation.
Medium Peels
Medium chemical peels use glycolic acid, salicylic acid or trichloroacetic acid to penetrate the skin at a controlled depth. They’re typically performed as outpatient procedures in doctor’s offices or surgery centers as an outpatient procedure with minimal downtime; redness and itching are likely, though ice packs and over-the- counter pain relievers can often help. After treatment is complete, apply moisturizing lotion and sunscreen daily until healing has taken place.
Dark spots such as freckles, sun damage or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may be reduced through medium chemical peels. They can also reduce scars’ appearance and size.
At least multiple medium peel treatments over an extended period will likely be necessary before clients see optimal results from medium peels. It is vital to follow your practitioner’s advice in order to achieve maximum effectiveness, including wearing an SPF 50+ sunscreen, avoiding sun exposure and using skincare products recommended by them.
Deep Peels
Deep chemical peels utilize stronger acid solutions that penetrate deeper into the skin. These peels can remove dark spots, improve other conditions, encourage collagen production for firmer skin and encourage its production; but may cause serious side effects ranging from changes in pigmentation (hyper- or hypopigmentation), scarring and possible fungal or viral infections if performed in an outpatient capacity at a doctor’s office or surgery center.
Before receiving a peel, talk with your doctor about your goals for treatment and what you expect out of the procedure. Make sure they know if there is any history of scarring, cold sores or issues with how your skin responds to sunlight or chemicals; provide details regarding any medical conditions or medications which affect blood clotting; also avoid waxing/hair bleaching treatments/facial scrubs in the week leading up to it; arrange transportation home in case they sedate you during this procedure.
Results
Your skin may appear red, tight and flaky after receiving a chemical peel; apply moisturizing cream, ointment or serum as soon as possible to help alleviate this discomfort. Similarly, refrain from picking or rubbing at it; sun exposure must also be limited until your skin has fully recovered.
Your doctor will first clean the area to be treated before applying a chemical solution with one or more acids to it. These acids break down the top layer of skin, creating controlled wounds in which new skin can form in its place.
Medium and deep peels can treat dark spots, uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars and other signs of aging. Chemical peels can also improve skin texture, enlarged pores and acne scarring. A physical exam and review of your medical history will determine if you qualify for the procedure; peels may take place either at your doctor’s office or surgery center; in any event if sedated it’s best to arrange for someone to drive you home afterwards.