The chemical peel is an effective procedure to revitalize your skin. Chemical peels can be used to:

  • Treat wrinkles
  • Treat acne
  • Reduce dark spots
  • Soften rough skin
  • Clear away mild scarring

Chemical peels can be applied to the hands, face, or neck. People who do not smoke and who are unhappy with the appearance of their skin make excellent candidates for the procedure.

History of the Procedure

Chemical peels have been used for so long because they are very effective at dealing with skin issues. Ferdinand Ritter Von Hebra introduced the chemical peel in the second half of the 19th century – it isn’t a new procedure – and its results, effects, and complications have been studied ever since. Because it has been studied for more than a hundred years, it is relatively safe when compared to newer techniques.

Types of Chemical Peels

  • Alpha hydroxy acid peels: AHA chemical peels, also known as glycolic acid peels, are the mildest of the peel formulas. They remove the upper layers of dead skin and boost skin-cell regeneration. Patients suffering from chronic dry skin, fine lines, and uneven pigmentation can opt for this treatment.
  • Beta hydroxy acid peels: Beta hydroxy acid peels work well for treatment of acne and scarring. They have the ability to reduce the spots and bumps we expect from an acne outbreak. BHAs are oil-soluble and are being used more often than AHAs.
  • Retinoic acid peel: Plastic surgeons and dermatologists perform this type of peel. It is deeper than a BHA peel and is used to treat pigmentation problems and remove scars.
  • Phenol-croton oil peel: This strong chemical peel reaches deep into the lower skin layers to heal harsh aesthetic skin issues.

Proper Skin Care After Your Chemical Peel

After a chemical peel, the skin is very delicate for a time. You’ve essentially burnt the top layers of your skin away to reveal fresh new skin cells. Some temporary reddening of the skin akin to a sunburn is normal. Mild peels may be applied every couple of weeks until your desired results are achieved.

The following are recovery tips for chemical-peel patients:

  • Your recovery time will be different based on the strength of the peel used. Depending on the strength of your peel, it is advisable to take a week off from work and your responsibilities while recovering so as not to impede the recovery process.
  • Make sure to use plenty of moisturizer, cleanser, and sunscreen to protect and nourish your skin. This will help to speed up your recovery.
  • Avoid exposure to the sun and extreme heat while your skin is peeling. Do not worry if there isn’t much peeling. Judge your treatment based on the end results and not the amount of peeling.

Find the Right Chemical Peel for You

Chemical peels are quite popular and have a number of benefits. Finding the right peel for you is a key aspect of the treatment process. Contact our office if you would like to learn more about our peel options during a consultation.

Dr. Burke Chegar is double-board-certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology and will be happy to recommend a peel option for you.