Chemical peels are used to improve the appearance of the skin by applying a chemical solution which exfoliates and rejuvenates the skin. They work by dissolving off the top layer of skin. If you wish to learn about how chemical peels work or if you are seeking treatment in Northridge, Burbank, and the surrounding areas, schedule a consultation at the Skin & Beauty Center today! Call our dermatology team at (818) 842-8000 or fill out the form in our contact page.
What are Chemical Peels Used to Treat?
The purpose of chemical peel treatment is to improve the tone and texture of the skin. By doing this, your peel can enhance the appearance of the area we've treated. In addition to accelerating cellular turnover by forcing the sloughing off of old, damaged cells, a chemical peel can also stimulate collagen production through the creation of a controlled "injury" to the skin. You may not even see the signs of that injury outside of some redness and flaking or peeling. This is felt below the epidermis, where cells are activated to repair tissue and reduce the appearance of:
- Acne and acne scarring
- Uneven skin tone
- Actinic keratoses (precancerous spots)
- Rough skin texture
- Sun damage
- Fine lines around the eyes or mouth
- Hyperpigmentation
- Melasma
- Freckles
Keep in mind that you don't have to have prominent symptoms like these to benefit from a chemical peel. Many people receive periodic peels to preserve the youthfulness and vibrancy of their skin as they age.
What Type of Peels Are Used in Your Office?
We perform varying strengths of salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or trichloroacetic acid. It is important to use the proper peeling agent based upon your individual skin needs and color.
What Should I Expect During the Treatment?
We perform chemical peels in our comfortable private treatment room. Your provider may suggest that you arrive at the office with clean skin; no makeup, no serums or lotions. Your procedure is performed while you lie comfortably on your back. Before beginning the peel, your provider may secure your hair out of the way and will wipe your skin with a solution that removes oil from the surface. The chemical solution is then brushed onto the skin. You will have discussed the strength of your peel and the type of chemical that will be used ahead of time. The solution remains on the skin for only a few minutes. As it absorbs, you may feel stinging or tingling. The skin may feel warm but you shouldn't feel significant pain. If you receive a medium peel, your provider may set a fan to cool your skin while the chemical solution is actively working to affect surface cells. After a few minutes, your provider will gently wipe the chemical solution off. The treatment may conclude with an application of a topical moisturizer to protect and nourish your skin as it begins its recovery period.
What Should I Expect After the Treatment?
What happens after your peel will depend on the strength of the chemical solution we've applied.
Light chemical peels may cause very little evidence of the cellular turnover process. You may develop some redness that looks somewhat like a sunburn. Conversely, the color of your skin may remain completely normal. Your skin may feel dry and look scaly or flaky. It's important not to rub or scrub the area while this is ongoing. Instead, you'll use a gentle cleanser and will apply moisturizer at least once a day. It is important to wear sunscreen daily after your peel.
Medium chemical peels permeate the deeper layers of the skin so cause more prominent side effects. A sunburned appearance is common after a medium-strength peel, as is flaking or peeling. The treatment area may also look puffy or swollen. This usually builds for up to 48 hours before it begins to subside. To assist the healing process after a medium-strength chemical peel, your doctor may advise you to soak the skin at least once a day. After each soak, apply the suggested ointment, cream, or lotion. You can apply makeup after the cellular turnover process is complete. This can take five to seven days.
Are Chemical Peels Good for All Skin Types?
Chemical peels can be applied to most skin types, even sensitive skin. What matters is the strength of the peel. This treatment may not be ideal for darker skin tones due to the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. More than your skin type, your provider will want to know about a history of abnormal scarring or conditions or medications that could make your skin more sensitive.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Depending on the condition being treated, the color of your skin, the strength and type of peel used and your individual response to the peel, you may only need 1 peel, but more often you will require multiple sessions to get the optimal results.
Are There Any Complications Associated With Chemical Peels?
When done correctly by experienced providers, chemical peels are very safe and there is little risk involved. However, as with any medical procedure, certain complications could occur. These include a temporary or permanent skin discoloration, scarring or redness.
Call The Skin & Beauty Center For Chemical Peels!
The Skin & Beauty Center's well-practiced dermatologists look forward to offering the latest chemical peel treatments for patients throughout Los Angeles County. Schedule your one-on-one appointment by filling out our contact form or by calling us at (818) 842-8000 today!