Chemical Peel

A chemical peel is a resurfacing procedure where a chemical solution is applied to the skin resulting in a softer appearance of wrinkles and reduction of hyperpigmentation (brown spots). It works by removing the outer layers of damaged skin. New skin forms in seven to ten days and makeup may be applied to conceal the pink new skin until the pinkness subsides. Once the pinkness fades, the skin is softer, smoother, more evenly toned, and has a softer appearance of the wrinkles.

Am I a good candidate for a chemical peeling?
The ideal candidate for chemical peeling is one with a fair complexion as deep chemical peeling can cause some lightening of the pigment which would be more apparent in patients with darker complexions. Patients with scleroderma or other active skin disorders are not good candidates.

What kind of results should I expect from chemical peeling?
Deep chemical peeling can soften fine wrinkles approximately 50%. Chemical peeling will not improve deep, etched wrinkles. Deep , etched wrinkles would be best treated by other procedures such as filler injections. Chemical Peeling will not lift sagging skin. Sagging skin will be better treated by facelifting.

Will I be able to tan after chemical peeling?
Skin that has been resurfaced as a deep treatment might not be able to tan after the procedure. There are other alternatives such as lighter peels and fillers for those patients who wish to continue tanning.

The skin that has undergone a deep chemical peel appears oozy and raw after the skin has peeled. Patients are instructed to apply Vaseline to the skin until it has healed. The skin usually heals in 7-14 days. The healed skin appears red for a period of months. This redness can be covered up with makeup. After the redness subsides, the skin has a softer appearance of the fine lines.

“Thank you for the time you spent with me this past Friday discussing different treatments. I was very impressed and appreciative for not having to wait in the room long to see you. You and your staff were very friendly and made my visit very pleasant. To make a long story short, I have had to meet with many doctors this past year (my husband was crushed by a front-end loader and lived!) and with these meetings I have come across many personalities in different medical personnel. You and your staff rate towards the top! May you continue to have a successful practice.”