Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are divided into 3 different categories based on their level of penetration. Superficial peels are confined to the outermost layers of the skin (the horn & epidermis), and are an excellent choice for active acne, discoloration, fine wrinkles, and very superficial scarring. They require only minutes in the office, is followed by a 2-4 day period of “dry skin flaking or peeling” that is usually easily masked by generous moisturizers and make up. These peels have been nicknamed “lunch time peels” because they are easily completed in the 30 to 60 minutes allotted for lunch, and there is virtually no downtime, enabling clients to return immediately to work. Because of the superficial nature of these peels a series of 6 is usually recommend, and performed at 2 week intervals.

Medium depth peels are more invasive and frequently used for people with more significant sun damage or acne scarring. By layering 2 types of superficial peels, the peeling agent can extend its effect to the second layer of the skin – the dermis. There is often a pre-treatment at-home regimen that is prescribed 2-4 weeks prior to this type of chemical peel. The period of peeling that follows may require some “downtime” – typically 7-10 days. The results are more dramatic than the superficial peels in smoothing the texture of the skin, eliminating wrinkles, and evening out skin tone. One to 2 medium depth peels a year are all that most people require.

Deep peels are no longer in common use, because of the increased risk of facial scarring, and even health risk. For those requiring effects beyond what a medium depth peel can accomplish, alternatives such as laser resurfacing are safer.

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