What To Know About Chemical Peel Day By Day >Chemical peels are one of the most popular methods for removing dead skin cells and improving your complexion. But there’s a lot of confusion about what to do before, during, and after chemical peels.

We’ve put together this guide to help you understand what to expect on chemical peel day by day—so you can get ready for it, stay comfortable during the procedure, and recover properly afterward.

Chemical peels are among the most effective, and safest, cosmetic methods to rejuvenate one’s skin. However, this procedure is not immune to accompanying side effects. Chemical peels can be performed either at home or in a professional setting and can be done on any part of the face. Read on to learn more Skin Looks Worse After Chemical Peel/Light Chemical Peel Recovery Time.

What To Know About Chemical Peel Day By Day

When you hear the words “chemical” and “peel,” you probably don’t immediately think that’s something you want for your face. It sounds a little scary, but actually, chemical peels offer a range of skin health and cosmetic benefits. One of the coolest things about chemical peels is how versatile they are. A good chemical peel improves skin tone and texture, manages chronic skin conditions, and even offers some anti-aging benefits. Generally speaking, peels are a budget-friendly, effective cosmetic dermatology treatment. This blog will dig deeper about what you can expect after your first chemical peel.

What is a Chemical Peel & Why Would I Get One?

If you’ve never had a chemical peel before, you may be wondering what this treatment even is. Simply speaking, chemical peels are exactly what their name suggests. They are facial treatments that use chemicals (commonly-used ingredients include salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or trichloroacetic acid) to peel layers of skin, revealing healthy, new skin below. There are many different types of chemical peels. Depending on your specific needs and your dermatologist’s recommendation, you may choose a chemical peel option that ranges from very light (just the surface of the skin) to improve uneven skin tone and other mild symptoms, or you may choose a chemical peel that goes deeper to address fine lines, wrinkles, scars (including acne scars), adult acne symptoms, and other concerns.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Chemical Peel?

Chemical peels offer improved appearance for a wide range of skin tone and texture concerns. However, peels aren’t appropriate for every cosmetic need. Specifically, chemical peels aren’t recommended if your scars or wrinkles are very deep, and peels aren’t able to tighten sagging skin. For the most part, reasonably healthy people can safely receive chemical peels, but there are some health conditions and skin characteristics that make chemical peels less effective and increase the risk of adverse effects, including:

• Individuals who are receiving isotretinoin treatment for acne
• Individuals who have a personal or family history of scar tissue abnormalities such as keloid scars
• Women who are nursing, breastfeeding, or actively trying to get pregnant
• Anyone with open sores, lesions, infections, or poorly managed chronic skin conditions
• People who spend large amounts of time outdoors receiving direct sun exposure
• Individuals with naturally darker skin tone may be at an increased risk for pigmentation concerns related to chemical peels.

Do I Need to Do Anything to Prepare for My Chemical Peel?

We know you can get a chemical peel at the spa or even perform one at home, but before you do, we really recommend you talk to a dermatologist. This ensures you have the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about which chemical peel procedure is right for your skin. And, honestly, we encourage you to let one of our medical professionals perform the procedure to avoid any negative effects like pigmentation issues, scarring, and infection that happen when peels are improperly performed.

Once you’ve decided that a chemical peel is the right option, your dermatologist will partner with you to develop a plan to prepare for your chemical peel treatment visit, which may include:

• Taking an antiviral medication to prevent skin infection
• Using a topical retinoid cream for a few weeks before your treatment to promote cell turnover and decrease healing time after your visit
• Applying topical bleaching agents like hydroquinone may also be recommended in the weeks leading up to your treatment as this can help to create an even skin tone and prevent hyperpigmentation after the procedure
• Using sunscreen daily and avoiding direct sun exposure whenever possible
• Applying a good moisturizer in the morning and evening to keep skin hydrated
• Reviewing and possibly discontinuing use of certain cosmetic products, hair removal chemicals, face masks, and other products that may increase the risk for adverse effects from chemical peels
• Forgoing shaving, plucking, or waxing in the area for at least 24 hours before your chemical peel
• When necessary, arranging for a ride to and from the office if you’ll be receiving a sedative

What Happens During a Chemical Peel?

In most cases, chemical peels are performed in your dermatologist’s office with no anesthesia or mild local numbing.  For patients who are receiving deeper chemical peels, mild sedative medication may be used on the day of the procedure. Before we begin the process, we cleanse and dry the skin thoroughly, and then use thick emollients, gauze, or other methods to protect your eyes, hair, nose, and mouth.

The peel itself involves applying a chemical solution to the skin and allowing it to sit. You may notice some stinging or discomfort as the solution sits on the skin. Then, depending on the type of chemical peel used, the dermatologist may apply a neutralizing agent to the treatment area. Most often the entire area is treated at once, but sometimes deeper chemical peels are performed in small sections which allows the dermatologist to carefully monitor your response and adjust treatment.

Some stinging or burning is normal during a chemical peel, but we never want anyone to be in excessive discomfort. At every step of treatment, we’ll do everything we can to ensure our patients are completely comfortable. That includes coming up with a good at-home care plan following the chemical peel to ensure you heal quickly and comfortably.

What Should I Expect After My Chemical Peel?

Patients can be really fearful going into a chemical peel because they’ve heard horror stories about people who had bad reactions. When they’re done correctly by a professional and the right chemical peel solution is used for your skin type, you should see really good results with minimal discomfort and downtime. Below are the top 10 things you should expect after your first chemical peel.

1 – Side Effects are Common, but They Should be Mild & Short-Lived

There’s a common misconception out there that chemical peels are really painful or the side effects are severe. Each person will react differently to skin treatments of all kinds, but for the most part, the side effects following chemical peels should be mild and healing should be completed within two weeks.

A common recovery timeline may look like:

• First few hours – you’ll notice some redness, tingling, or burning
• First few days – you may notice some dryness, irritation, and mild swelling
• Two to Three days – your skin may look flaky or peel, and discolorations or imperfections may temporarily be more noticeable
• Three to four days – you may breakout or notice skin looks tan or slightly darker than usual
• Five to seven days – all side effects should start to subside, and your skin should begin to look and feel “normal”
• Seven to fourteen days – you’ll see the formation of healthy, new skin, but you may notice some redness or skin that is darker or lighter than usual for up to a month

2 – Your Skin Will Peel

It is called a peel for a reason. The chemical is applied to peel away the existing layer of skin. After three to five days, you’ll start to see the skin peeling away. This should be similar to how your skin flakes away after a sunburn. You should gently remove the flakes when cleaning your face, but avoid pulling or picking at the peeling skin as this can cause irritation and increase the risk for infection.

3 – One Treatment is Great, but Multiple Chemical Peels Deliver Maximum Results

Many people think they’ll achieve the results they want after just one chemical peel. It usually takes several treatment sessions to see the desired outcomes. Most people notice some improvement after their first chemical peel, but with multiple treatments over the span of several months, patients will be astonished by how much better their skin looks.

4 – You Will Likely Need to Visit the Dermatologist for Follow Up Appointments

While most people have very mild reactions following chemical peels, it’s important to pay close attention throughout your recovery period and let your dermatologist know right away if you notice signs of infection or have other concerns. Because of the potential for rare but serious health risks, we like to schedule follow up visits with our patients after chemical peels. This also gives us a chance to check progress and adjust ongoing treatment plans.

5 – You May Need to Skip the Cosmetics for Awhile

For the first  1-2 weeks, you should not use any makeup. Chemicals and other substances in cosmetics can unnecessarily irritate the skin and prolong the healing process.

6 – Adjust Your Skincare Routine & Follow the Dermatologist’s Instructions

The body’s natural healing process is the reason chemical peels are so effective at improving skin’s appearance, so it’s essential to allow your skin to heal after treatment. Our providers usually work with patients to plan ahead for their aftercare, including making product recommendations based on skin type for cleansing, moisturizing, promoting cell turnover, and of course, protecting healing skin from sun damage.

While each person should talk to their dermatologist about a specific post-peel skincare plan, some basics include:

• Let the product work – You’ll start to see some dryness and other changes to your skin within the first few hours of application. To allow the product to work and avoid unnecessary skin irritation, you should avoid other skincare for the first 24 hours after your peel.
• Use dressing & medications – If you receive a deeper chemical peel, your dermatologist may apply dressings and healing ointments after your treatment. Follow your dermatologist’s recommendation for removing and replacing bandages and apply healing medications as recommended.
• Stay hydrated – As your skin is drying out and peeling away, it’s even more important to maintain hydration from the inside out by drinking plenty of water.
• Don’t pick at it – We know the dry, flaky skin is just begging to be pulled off, but try not to scratch, pull, or pick at your skin. This can increase the risk of scarring, and oils and germs transferred from the hands can lead to infection.
• Address pain & swelling – In most cases, taking a mild over-the-counter pain reliever is effective in managing discomfort. For very deep chemical peels or those who have a very low tolerance for pain, your dermatologist may prescribe something to help with your discomfort during healing. Additionally, you may be instructed to use cold compresses to manage symptoms during the first day and help avoid swelling and inflammation.
• Gently clean skin – After the first day, you should start washing your face in the morning and evening, using cool water and a gentle cleanser.
• Moisturize – Apply moisturizer at least twice a day to promote the healing process and protect the skin. Even if you typically have oily skin and only use a light moisturizer, you may need to use a good, thick moisturizer as your skin recovers following a chemical peel.
• Skip the exfoliant – Chemical peels are exfoliating, so you don’t need to use any exfoliant for the first week after treatment. That includes avoiding the use of exfoliating brushes and scrubs as well as cleansers or toners that contain a chemical exfoliant.

7 – Don’t Skip the Sunscreen!

Sunscreen is a must every day, but following a chemical peel, sun protection is even more essential. The skin is more sensitive to damage from the sun’s UVA/B rays. You should avoid exposure to the sun immediately after your treatment, and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before going outdoors. Immediately following your chemical peel, you should not use chemical sunscreens. Instead, use a physical sunblock to avoid an adverse response to the ingredients in some chemical sunscreens. Additionally, keeping the treated area physically shielded from the sun by wearing hats, scarves, or other protective coverings may be recommended after your chemical peel.

8 – Avoid High Temperatures & Overexertion

To combat potential side effects like redness, tingling, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, you need to keep your skin cool. That means limiting time outdoors, taking cooler showers or baths, and avoiding overexerting yourself during exercise. In most cases, you can return to your regular routine after the first two weeks.

9 – You Might Break out

Many patients receive chemical peels to help improve the appearance of acne scars or combat the symptoms of adult acne, so when they hear that they may break out after their chemical peel, it’s upsetting. Unfortunately,  the combination of larger amounts of dead skin and inflammation from the procedure can lead to pimples. We know how frustrating it can be, but after this initial breakout, the skin should clear up within just a few days and look healthier.

10 – Be Patient – True Results Take Time

Our patients are always reminded that changes to the skin take a long time to accumulate, so it shouldn’t be surprising that it takes time to correct irregularities and damage. Cosmetic procedures do not restore youth overnight. The results of your chemical peel treatment plan will depend on the time you invest and your commitment to consistent treatment and at-home care. Be patient. If you’re concerned that a peel hasn’t had the desired effect, contact your dermatologist or ask about your results during your follow up visit.

Skin Looks Worse After Chemical Peel

Treated areas take about one to seven days to heal after a light chemical peel. New skin might temporarily be lighter or darker than normal. After a medium chemical peel, treated skin will be red and swollen. You’ll feel stinging.

Chemical peels can boost your confidence and give you healthier-looking skin. Reducing scars, acne, and uneven skin tone can help you love the way you look.

With the word “chemical,” it’s natural to question if this treatment can damage your skin. Before you book an appointment, learn more about chemical peels, including what they are and how they can affect your skin.

What Are Chemical Peels?
A chemical peel is a cosmetic treatment for your skin. It removes damaged skin cells, offering brighter and smoother skin.

The solution used in a chemical peel reacts with the outer layers of the skin. After your skin heals, it will look fresh and be healthier.

A chemical peel solution can help improve:

Fine lines & wrinkles
Pore congestion
Skin tone
Skin discolouration
Radiance
You can have a chemical peel on your face, neck, or hands. Depending on your needs, a peel can treat your skin on 3 different levels.

Light chemical peels treat fine lines, acne, uneven skin tone, & overall dryness
Medium chemical peels treat wrinkles, acne scars, & uneven skin tone
Deep chemical peel can treat deep wrinkles and scars
If you’re thinking of getting this treatment, why should you get a chemical peel?

Why Get a Chemical Peel?
Many people can feel uncomfortable in their skin because of blemishes, wrinkles, or acne. Everyone deserves to feel good about themselves, and chemical peels can help achieve this. They remove old, damaged skin layers, leaving new, healthy skin.

You can use chemical peels to treat:

Acne
Enlarged pores
Hyperpigmentation
Scarring
Rosacea
Wrinkles
Age spots & freckles
Chemical peels can’t remove deep scars or wrinkles or tighten sagging skin.

Like any procedure, there can be risks to chemical peels. Some people may feel hesitant to try this treatment after hearing about a bad experience. Can chemical peels make your skin worse than it was before?

A close of a woman’s face showing the application of a chemical peel
Can Chemical Peels Make Your Skin Worse?
While chemical peels aren’t guaranteed to make your skin worse, complications can happen. Chemical peels have a few possible side effects. These complications include:

Redness, scabbing, & swelling
Scarring
Infection
Changes in skin colour
While risks are always present with any cosmetic treatment, chemical peels are safe when properly used. Depending on your skin, you may need a certain type of peel.

When you’re with a certified and trained expert, you can feel more comfortable. Someone who understands your skin, the treatment and has your best interests in mind can give you a positive experience.

If you’re trying chemical peels at home, the solutions may be weaker, but you can still damage your skin. There is less of a chance for error when seeing a professional.

At-Home vs. Professional Treatments
If you’re interested in chemical peels, there are two choices: at-home or professional treatment. While both options aim to improve your skin, they have some differences between them.

At-Home Treatments
While commercial products exist for at-home chemical peels, they are in lower concentrations and exfoliate your skin over time. There are a few different ingredients that can offer the same treatment as a professional chemical peel, but with less strength:

Glycolic acid
Lactic acid
Mandelic acid
Salicylic acid
Only use products with these ingredients if you’re going to try at-home treatments; chemical peels can burn your skin if improperly used. Follow all instructions carefully and diligently to avoid potential complications.

Because these solutions aren’t as strong, at-home treatments are most effective for milder skin concerns. You won’t see as effective results from commercial products compared to professional treatment.

At-home chemical peels can seem beneficial if you’re looking to save money, but having a trained professional treat your skin is worth the cost.

Professional Treatment
Professional chemical peels offer several advantages. The solutions are stronger, and you will likely see better results from in-office treatment. Rather than following instructions for a commercial solution, you’ll experience a consultation with a certified professional.

In your consultation, you’ll discuss your relevant family and medical history. You’ll talk about the goals and expected results for this treatment before moving forward.

During a professional treatment, the chemical solution is catered for your skin to minimize the risk of complications. Unlike at-home treatments, professional chemical peels are effective for all skin concerns.

Chemical peels have been around in one form or another for centuries.

They’ve maintained their popularity because they’re so effective, helping to reveal healthy, radiant, youthful-looking skin. But there still seems to be a lot of confusion surrounding how a chemical peel works and what the chemical peel process looks like day by day. 

Here’s what you can expect before, during and after your chemical peel treatment.

What is a chemical peel, exactly?

Chemical peels are non-invasive cosmetic procedures that use a combination of powerful, skin-safe acids. These acids work together to break down the top few layers of the epidermis, exfoliating the skin and leaving behind the healthier layers underneath. 

The chemical peel process takes anywhere from one to seven days, depending on how “heavy” of a peel you have performed. The chemical peel we offer at Skin Pharm is a medium-depth (or TCA) peel. This peel uses a mix of alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs, including lactic acid and salicylic acid), retinoic acid and trichloroacetic acid to achieve the final results. 

What concerns do chemical peels tackle?

Chemical peels are excellent for taking on a variety of skin care concerns, including:

• Chronic sun damage
• Hyperpigmentation (brown spots)
• Melasma
• Scarring
• Acne
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Uneven skin tone or texture
• Large, visible pores

While you’ll start to see results after a single chemical peel, the effects are cumulative, meaning maximum benefits are noticeable after a series of peels.

What should I do to prep for my chemical peel?

The prep for a chemical peel starts with timing. We recommend that you schedule your chemical peel at least two weeks before any major events, as the expected side effects are most noticeable during that period. 

You want your skin to be as healthy as possible. A week before your appointment, you should avoid doing anything that irritates your skin. This includes tanning, laser procedures, waxing, using depilatory creams, tweezing and using skin care products with topical retinoids.

If you’re experiencing any rash or viral outbreaks on your face, you may need to reschedule your appointment. Doing a chemical peel with either of those factors can potentially worsen the issue.

How does the chemical peel application work?

Before your chemical peel day-to-day process starts, you’ll need to have your provider apply the treatment. People often have many concerns about what it will feel like to get a peel done and if it’ll hurt. We recommend scheduling a consultation before having a chemical peel to discuss what to expect and answer any questions you may have. 

When you arrive at the clinic, the first step is to wash your face. Washing your face removes any layers of dead skin cells, makeup and other debris (like skin care products) that may still be sitting on your skin. The result is a clear surface, ready to accept the peel without any barriers in its way. 

(Different skin care practices can perform different depths of chemical peels, and the “deeper” the peel, the more discomfort you are likely to feel.) Skin Pharm’s medium-depth chemical peel isn’t uncomfortable, though — most people describe the sensation as “tingling,” “warm” or “tight.” To help with any potential stinging during the treatment, we provide our patients with a handheld fan, too.

Day one post-chemical peel

After your chemical peel is complete and you leave the office, what should you expect on day one?

You’ll leave the clinic with the peel solution still on your face, and you’ll notice your complexion take on a yellow hue throughout the day. (Not to worry — this means it’s working!) After a few hours, you’ll apply the retinol crème your provider sent you home with.

You might notice some redness and sensitivity as the retinol gets to work. Many people describe the feeling as similar to having a sunburn. However, the telltale peeling that comes with a chemical peel won’t start for another day or so.

WHAT TO AVOID THE DAY OF YOUR CHEMICAL PEEL—

While your skin is still healing, keep a few factors in mind. Your skin is incredibly raw and sensitive, and it needs additional protection. To protect it and maximize your results, you should avoid any strenuous exercise or activities that lead to sweating. 

In addition, try to stay out of the sun as much as possible and wear sunscreen (with at least an SPF of 30) if you can’t avoid it entirely. 

You’ll also want to avoid letting your skin dry out. Although applying product to raw skin can feel uncomfortable, it needs moisture to heal. Allowing your skin to dry too much can lengthen the healing process and make it more likely that your skin will scab or even scar. 

Day two post-chemical peel

Day two of the chemical peel process day to day is where you’ll likely start to see your skin peel. The top layers of your skin are beginning to dehydrate and slough off, and you’ll see this more often start between the eyes and in the corners of the nose and mouth. 

Although it may be tempting, resist the urge to help your skin peel manually. Wash your skin gently and follow up with a stronger moisturizer, like Recovery Lotion.

For many people, the redness they experience in the first few days is enough to keep them home from work and social events. Expect that your skin will react this way, and don’t schedule anything significant in the few days directly after your chemical peel. 

If you deal with breakouts, you may experience some “purging” of any blemishes present under the surface before your peel. While this isn’t common, it is possible to start with a new retinol skin care product. 

Day three and four post-chemical peel

Day three and four are when you will likely experience the worst peeling and flaking. Your skin is most likely to feel uncomfortable these days — and it’s also at its most vulnerable. Follow your provider’s skin care recommendations carefully, as they are designed to help protect your skin and assist it with its natural healing process.

Now, more than ever, your skin needs to be protected. You may even want to wear a sun protective hat along with your sunscreen to make sure your skin stays safe and doesn’t burn. Doing that keeps your healing process moving forward.

Don’t be surprised if you notice more peeling in certain areas of your face than in others. This is normal and doesn’t indicate any problem with your skin’s healing process. 

Day seven post-chemical peel

A week after your chemical peel is performed, you’ll finally be able to start seeing your results. This is where all of the flaking, peeling and redness starts to pay off. (Professionals consider the results of a chemical peel permanent, so enjoy that new skin you’re starting to see!)

Depending on how well or quickly your skin is healing, you can usually return to your normal skincare routine a week or so after your chemical peel. 

Make sure that your skin is completely done peeling before using any harsher or more abrasive skin care products, as the skin may still be sensitive. When your skin stops feeling as tight and dry, you should be ok to switch back. 

Our post-chemical peel skin care routine is excellent for helping your skin to heal, but it isn’t meant for long-term use for most of our patients. Unless you have dry, sensitive skin, prolonged use can lead to breakouts or oily-looking skin. 

One week post-chemical peel (and beyond!)

Your skin is far less flaky and sensitive by this point in your chemical peel journey. However, because your skin has gone through a process meant to safely “damage” your skin so that it looks better than ever, there may still be some noticeable healing going on. 

More sensitive areas of your skin may start to crust and scab or even have a noticeable color change. Usually, this process is complete around two weeks after your chemical peel. However, some redness may persist for months, especially in hotter weather or when you exercise. 

Light Chemical Peel Recovery Time

Makeup can enhance your facial contours and highlight your most attractive features, but if you’re using excessive amounts of makeup to cover up skin imperfections, you may also be hiding your natural beauty. Most skin imperfections that draw attention away from your attractive features are found on the surface of the skin. Chemical peel treatments can help correct these imperfections and reveal the new, healthy, unblemished skin beneath.

A chemical peel is a skin exfoliation treatment that provides powerful skin rejuvenating benefits. Chemical peels come in different strengths to treat a range of skin concerns, including acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, large pores, discoloration, and uneven tone and texture. These blemishes exist at varying levels of depth within the skin, and the strength of each chemical peel determines how deeply it penetrates. The depth of penetration also affects the healing process, so if you want to rejuvenate your skin in time for an important day, you may need to plan pretty far in advance. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect from the chemical peel healing process day by day.

CHEMICAL PEEL HEALING PROCESS DAY BY DAY
Every person is different, and their healing time will differ as well. In general, the deeper the peel, the longer the healing process. A chemical peel is a procedure you want to plan for well in advance of any special event, as it can take months for the full results to settle. Depending on the type of peel, expect to take some time off work. A superficial peel may not necessitate any more time off than the day of the procedure, but certain medium and deep peels may warrant up to 2 weeks of downtime.

DAY 1
Your skin will feel dry and tight. Depending on the depth of your peel and your skin’s sensitivity, you may either feel some mild skin irritation, a sunburn-like sting, or even a throbbing sensation. You will be given instructions for minimizing the pain. These may include ice packs and prescription medications.

DAYS 2-4
Your skin will continue to feel tight and dry for a couple of days. The sting and pain of deeper chemical peels will continue longer than with the lighter peels. Around the third or fourth day, you may notice some flakiness or peeling as the top layers of skin begin to shed. The deeper peels build up a crustiness before the flaking and peeling process begins.

DAYS 4-7
Flaking and peeling will continue. Discolorations or imperfections may become more noticeable, but this is normal. Depending on instructions from your chemical peel professional, you may begin to use a gentle skin cleanser and a strong hydrating moisturizer.

DAYS 7-14
For light chemical peels, the flaking and peeling should be complete within a week or so. In the days following, the new, healthy, supple skin will begin to grow. Some pinkness or discoloration can last for a month or longer before the skin settles to its new radiance. For medium or deep chemical peels, the swelling should disappear within two weeks, but the redness can remain for up to three months.

For those who desire an individualized, effective treatment for skin issues, at Bentley Skincare and Wellness in Springfield, MO, we offer customized chemical peels targeted to your particular skincare need. So, how long does it take to recover from a chemical peel? There are a whole host of skincare issues that people commonly deal with, so the peel that is recommended for you will be based on your specific skin type.

Your skin may be dry, oily, normal, or sensitive. You may struggle with issues such as scarring, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, or aging skin. Whatever your issue, there is a peel that will work for you, and your recovery time will depend on the type of peel you choose. No matter the regimen that is prescribed, however, your treatment will consist of a pre-peel plan, the peel itself, and a post-treatment plan to promote your skin’s healthy recovery.

What Is a Chemical Peel?

In simple terms, a chemical peel consists of applying a peeling agent to your skin. Although the peeling agent may be left on for as few as three to five minutes or as long as up to an hour, depending on the type of peel, it encourages your skin to shed its outer layer over a period of days.

As a result, new skin growth is promoted over a period of days. The skin will now appear more even in texture, and improvements in pigmentation, scarring, fine lines, and wrinkles will be seen. Skin impurities will be drawn out, and overall, you will notice a brighter, fresher, more rejuvenated appearance.

Types of Peels

Since everyone’s skin is different, the type of peel that is recommended for you will vary depending on your skin type and any issues you may be having. There are several types of peels available, some of which contain Jessner’s solution, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or retinol.

There are also peel alternatives, or masks, that help facilitate the peeling and rejuvenation process as well. While most peels are applied to the face, they can also be used to promote better skin texture on the back, chest, neck, shoulders, and upper arms.

Peels Containing Jessner’s Solution

Formulated decades ago by German-American dermatologist Dr. Max Jessner, peels containing Jessner’s solution have been shown to improve the appearance of all skin types. Peels with Jessner’s solution can reduce dark patches, age spots, scarring, and discoloration as they promote a bright, even skin tone. Overall, the skin will appear refreshed and revitalized.

If your skin is oily or sensitive, a PCA Peel® (Physicians Care Alliance) that is hydroquinone-free may be ideal for you. It has been found to even skin tone while improving skin that is prone to breakouts. For those patients with normal skin, a PCA Peel® with hydroquinone will brighten and rejuvenate skin while removing discoloration.

If your skin is in need of more potent treatment, a PCA Peel® with hydroquinone and resorcinol can improve the skin’s appearance, as it reduces damage due to the sun or scarring due to acne.

Peels Containing TCA

Many peels nowadays contain TCA. Designed for all skin types, including highly sensitive skin, Sensi Peel® is a gentle treatment that promotes improved skin texture and a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. For those with mature skin, Ultra Peel® I will also provide brighter, more youthful-looking skin as it minimized lines and wrinkles.

If your skin is rather resilient, the Ultra Peel Forte® may be ideal for you. This potent product brightens and restores while it promotes a younger-looking appearance. Finally, the Smoothing Body Peel® is designed to improve the texture and tone of the thicker skin of your body.

Retinoid Treatments

There are two types of treatments available that contain retinol. The 4% Pure Retinol Peel revitalizes skin as it smooths and brightens by increasing new cell growth.

The Advanced Treatment Booster is designed to promote an increase in exfoliation, all the while soothing and reducing redness in the skin of all types. This particular peel will also restore keratinization, which helps protect skin and acts as a barrier.

Peel Alternatives/Masks

There are several alternative peels or masks from which to choose, and each targets a different skin type. For patients with dry skin, the Therapeutic Oat Milk Mask Treatment is designed to hydrate and soothe dull, dry skin. If your skin tends to stay in the normal range, the Therapeutic Papaya Mask can brighten skin tone, rejuvenate, and refresh.

In addition, several treatments are available for oily skin, all of which detoxify, purify, and calm the skin. The Detox Gel Deep Pore Treatment, the Therapeutic Salicylic Acid Mask, and the Therapeutic Charcoal Mask are all offered by our office.

Before the Peel

Eligibility

Prior to undergoing any sort of chemical treatment, it is imperative that our doctors determine if the peel is right for you. In order to determine eligibility, we need to make sure that you are not breastfeeding or pregnant and have no skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, or rosacea.

In addition, if you have an outdoor job, a peel might not be appropriate for you, just as those with a history of poor wound healing should probably not undergo such treatment. Finally, if you are receiving treatment for acne, you should avoid a peel while undergoing this treatment.

A Pre-Peel Plan

Once we have taken your medical history and determined that a peel is appropriate for you, we will provide you with a skincare regimen to follow for approximately two to four weeks prior to your peel. This is designed to make your peel more effective.

You may be asked to use retinol or a product containing Retin-A in order to stimulate cell turnover and increase the peel’s ability to penetrate into the skin. Typically, this pre-peel care would stop at least several days before your treatment. Sometimes, no preparation is necessary prior to having a peel: it depends upon the needs of your skin and the peel.

The Peel

After you arrive for your designated appointment, our staff will begin by thoroughly cleaning your skin in order to remove any oil or products that may interfere with the chemicals in the peel. If your face is being treated, your eyes may be covered with gauze or goggles to protect your eyes, and your hair may be pulled back from your face.

Depending on the type of peel that has been recommended for you, our skin care specialist will then apply the peel with gauze, a brush, or a cotton-tipped applicator. At this time, your skin will look frosted and white, and you may notice a tightness or a tingling sensation.

Many peels are removed within three to five minutes after application, and cool compresses or lotion may be applied to help soothe the skin. Other peels are self-neutralizing and may remain on the skin for up to an hour. Because each peel varies, our team will review the specifics of your peel prior to performing any sort of treatment.