Chemical Peel Treatment

Chemical Peeling is mostly used for the facial area; however other parts of the body can be treated. Chemical peeling can be used to treat acne; discoloration, freckles, hyper pigmentation, superficial dark scars, superficial melasma, as well as reducing fine lines and wrinkles. A Chemical Peel is a procedure that involves the application of a chemical to the face, neck or hands. A predefined chemical solution is applied to the area to be treated to diminish imperfections by peeling away the skin's top layers. It also stimulates the production of new collagen for a smoother more even complexion.

Chemical peels can be used to treat;

• acne
• uneven pigmentation
• mild scarring
• fine wrinkling
• dry skin
• skin texture
• sun-damaged skin
• age spots, freckles and dark patches

There are three main types of peels; light, medium and deep each offering different levels of “peeling” and utilizing varying amounts of chemicals for the desired results. A light peel is the most common performed and is the mildest of the peel formulas that uses Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA's) these are naturally occurring acids found in fruits and other foods.

A medium peel is generally performed only once every couples of years using a trichloroacetic acid. Because of deeper penetration it can remove larger wrinkles and precancerous skin lesions however this peel can make the skin temporarily look like a sunburn.

Deep chemical peels, although rarely used anymore since the advancement a laser applications, uses Phenol the application is very painful and is done under a general anesthesia.

More severe wrinkles do not respond well to chemical peels. They may require other kinds of cosmetic surgical procedures, such as the use of laser or Botox®

There are two basic types of chemical solutions used;
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) such as glycolic, lactic or fruit acid are generally used for superficial peels in varied concentrations. You may experience a slight tingling or warming sensation of the skin. AHA may be applied weekly or at longer intervals to achieve the desired results.
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) peel is much stronger, and is used for a greater depth of peel. Medium deep peeling can sting mildly with much warmer sensations on the skin.

Chemical peels are generally performed in our office. Immediately after a chemical peel the surface of the skin will appear whitish and you may experience a warm to hot sensation followed by a stinging sensation. Cool compresses can be applied to help alleviate any discomfort. In the following days, the skin will feel tight and dry. After 4 to 6 days, the tight skin will begin to peel. After about 7 - 10 days, the skin will appear normal again. Applying a 50+ Sun factor lotion is a necessity after a chemical peeling, in order to reduce the risk of increased production of pigmentation as a side-effect from peeling.

Chemical peeling can be an effective treatment for acne, discoloration, freckles, hyper pigmentation, superficial dark scars, superficial melasma, as well as reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

Dr. Mok or Dr. Kotlus will discuss with you an appropriate treatment plan based on your specific problem and desired results.

Call 800-610-7484 for your Free Consultation.