What Are Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin to make skin smoother, reduce scarring and remove blemishes. Peels have long been used as skin rejuvenation procedures. In the right hands, chemical peels can safely address many common facial concerns, including wrinkles, uneven skin pigmentation, and a dull complexion. Peels can also increase the overall health of the skin. Ranging from mild to strong, there are 3 types of chemical peels: superficial, medium and deep. The strength of each peel is tailored to the patient. Peels can be combined with other procedures, such as neuromodulators and fillers, for a customized treatment.
Chemical Peel Procedure
Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Kim will discuss your cosmetic goals and the tradeoffs involved in peels of different depths. Treatment can be customized according to each patient’s skin type, skin damage and desired results. As a rule, the deeper the peel, the longer the recovery time. In all cases, avoid sun exposure immediately after a chemical peel and use sun block during the healing process since the new skin is fragile and more susceptible to injury.
During a peel, the skin is cleansed and prepared prior to the solution being applied, which may cause a brief stinging sensation for 5-10 minutes. A fan or cooling device is provided for your comfort. After the peel, Dr. Kim will provide you with specific skin care and instructions to use during the healing period. It is important to follow all post-peel instructions as outlined by your physician to ensure rapid healing and the best results.
Side Effects Of Chemical Peels
Some reddening and swelling of the skin may occur, depending on the strength of the peel used for approximately a week. For some patients, flaking of the skin may also occur. After the peel, it is essential that the skin be protected from the sun and proper skin care followed to get the best results. During this healing response to the peel, new collagen formation is triggered so the skin appears tighter with a healthy “glow.” To maintain this healthy glow, your physician may suggest chemical peels at regular intervals to keep the skin looking its best.
Chemical Peel Treatment Areas
Chemical peels are most commonly used on the face but can be used on other body areas such as the chest, back, shoulders and arms to eliminate lines, freckles, or age spots. Patients with more extensive sun damage on the legs can also be treated with chemical peels.
Combining Chemical Peels With Other Cosmetic Treatments
Chemical peels can be combined with any light, laser, or skin treatments. The most popular combinations include:
- Laser and light-based techniques to further stimulate collagen remodeling and remove pigmented lesions
- Ultherapy (high intensity focused ultrasound) treatment to tighten and lift sagging skin
- Topical prescriptions that further smoothen wrinkles such as tretinoin
- Soft tissue fillers like Juvederm, Voluma, Belotero, Radiesse, Restylane, Sculptra to smoothen wrinkles
- Neuromodulators such as Botox Cosmetic or Dysport to relax muscles that contribute to wrinkles
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
We would love to speak with you and get you started with your own personalized chemical peel treatment plan. Contact Summit Dermatology for your private consultation.
If you have any questions or comments, or if you want to learn more about the services we provide, please call us at 360.918.8101 . For a consultation, or to setup an appointment click here.
Cosmetic Dermatologist Serving Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, Centralia, Shelton, Federal Way & surrounding areas in Washington.
