Chemical Peels

WHAT IS A CHEMICAL PEEL?

A chemical peel is a skin

resurfacing treatment that uses an acidic solution to remove dead or damaged skin cells from the epidermis. It can drastically improve acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, and coarse texture—making way for smoother, tighter, glowing, more youthful skin.

While often performed on the face, chemical peels can also be done on the neck, chest, or hands.

HOW STRONG ARE CHEMICAL PEELS?

Peel strength can range from no downtime to progressive downtime, with sheet peeling. A peel's strength and depth are determined by the number of layers applied and the strength of the peel solution.

WHAT SKIN CONDITIONS CAN A PEEL TREAT?

Chemical peels are typically optimized to treat one or more of the following conditions:

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Acne, scarring, and blemishes

• Hyperpigmentation

• Excessive sebum production

WHY ARE PEELS BENEFICIAL?

Peels can:

• Lighten and brighten skin

• Minimize and eradicate cystic acne, comedones, pustules, and papules

• Soften wrinkles

• Diminish fine lines

• Improve the appearance of large pores

• Re-texturize the skin

• Reduce sebum

• Stimulate fibroblasts, resulting in new cell development

• Strengthen the integrity of the skin

• Soften scar tissue

• Increase blood circulation

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE?

Anyone who wants to maintain healthy skin and improve acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, and texture.

ARE THERE SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN I SHOULD NOT GET A CHEMICAL PEEL?

(We call them contraindications.)

• If you're currently using Accutane. We recommend waiting at least 6 months after finishing Accutane before having a chemical peel.

• You cannot be treated if you have a sunburn.

• Pregnancy (depending on the type of peel).

• Actively breastfeeding.

• Open wounds.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I GET THEM?

Peels are most beneficial in a series of 3–6 treatments. Clients are encouraged to come every 3–4 weeks for best results.

Individual peels outside of a series can also provide healthy skin maintenance at any time.

PEELS WE SPECIALIZE IN:

PROGRESSIVE PEELS (Minimal To No Downtime)

This type of peel usually does not cause immediate exfoliation and only removes the stratum corneum. The skin will appear brighter and glowing. As treatments are repeated, the skin may experience mild sloughing. For best results, a series of 3 to 6 treatments should be performed. This type of peel can also serve as a good lead-in to Progressive Plus or Mid-Depth peels.

PROGRESSIVE PLUS

Progressive Plus peels affect the intra-epidermal layer, where exfoliation typically occurs within 2 to 3 days. This level of peel provides good rejuvenation with sunburn-like flaking and dryness. Clients may experience this flakiness for one to three days.

MID-DEPTH

These peels affect the intra-epidermal layer where exfoliation occurs within 2 to 3 days after application. Mid-depth peels provide more complete facial exfoliation and sometimes turn dark brown just before flaking occurs. Clients typically experience exfoliation for 2 to 4 days. These peels may be done monthly as needed.

PRE-CHEMICAL PEEL INSTRUCTIONS:

For safe and optimal results, please adhere to the following instructions 7–10 days before your appointment:

• Avoid the following active ingredients: prescription acne medications, retinols, retinoids, AHAs, and BHAs.

• Stop using all physical exfoliants such as scrubs.

• Discontinue any exfoliating products that may be drying or irritating.

• Avoid extensive sun exposure for at least 7 days before your peel. Passive sun exposure is acceptable.

• No facial waxing for 7 days prior.

• If you have a history of herpes simplex virus (HSV) in the treatment area, notify your provider, as pre-treatment with an antiviral medication may be required.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR PEEL:

• Tingling: Sensations of tingling and itching are completely normal.

• Tightness: You may feel as though your skin is tightening or being slightly pulled.

• Temperature changes: Your skin may feel like it's warming or cooling—both sensations are normal.

If at any point the sensation becomes too uncomfortable, notify your provider.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR CHEMICAL PEEL:

• You may experience mild itching, irritation, redness, and increased sensitivity. Your skin may feel tight and dry post-peel. This is normal and temporary.

• Small whiteheads may appear. These are not breakouts—let them be, and they will resolve on their own.

• Hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) may occur in some skin types.

• Around day 3–4, you may experience mild to moderate shedding depending on the peel’s depth, the number of layers, and solution strength. Superficial peels typically result in no downtime.

CHEMICAL PEEL AFTERCARE:

Chemical peels involve a recovery process. Please follow the post-care instructions below to maximize results:

• Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer. Apply moisturizer twice daily or as needed to reduce flaking.

• Avoid touching, peeling, or picking at loose skin. Refrain from any manual or chemical exfoliation, as this can cause hyperpigmentation.

• Keep the skin cool and avoid raising body temperature—no hot tubs, saunas, or intense exercise.

• Avoid using prescription acne medications, retinols, retinoids, AHAs, and BHAs for at least 10 days.

• Avoid direct sun exposure and excessive heat. Use SPF 30 or higher daily.

• Avoid treatments that cause exfoliation, including facials, extractions, waxing, and threading.

• Do not apply makeup on the day of your treatment. Your skin needs time to stabilize.

• Men – do not shave post-peel.