Chemical Peels

A chemical peel, also known as chemical resurfacing, is a treatment designed to rejuvenate one’s face. Chemical peels are used for the treatment of photoaging (from sun damage), wrinkles, scarring, acne, skin lesions, and discoloration (or dyschromia). Chemical peels produce controlled injury to the skin that promotes the production of new cells for an improved appearance. ⁽¹⁾

Skin Perfect Medical Aesthetics is one of California’s leading skincare and anti-aging practices. We have helped countless patients achieve the beautiful, rejuvenated looks they desire, and we look forward to helping each patient improve their lives through our customizable treatments. If you are interested in how a chemical peel can improve your skin, then please reach out today to schedule a consultation appointment.

Schedule your appointment online, or call any of our offices with any questions you may have.

Before and After Photos

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About Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are procedures designed to enhance skin aesthetics by facilitating chemical exfoliation. During this treatment, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, causing the outermost layer to peel off, revealing refreshed, more youthful-looking skin underneath. The skin is made up of several layers, primarily the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (inner layer). Over time, factors such as sun exposure, aging, and environmental pollutants contribute to skin imperfections, including wrinkles, damage, and uneven skin tone. ⁽¹⁾

We offer several different chemical peels suited to treat most skin types and many different skin concerns. Light chemical peels are great for rejuvenation and mild pigmentation issues, whereas deeper peels can treat more extensive skin conditions like dark spots, wrinkles, scarring, and acne.

According to recent statistics, millions of chemical peels are performed annually, underscoring their popularity and effectiveness as a non-surgical method for skin rejuvenation. ⁽²⁾ Individuals who are looking for visible improvements in their skin tone and texture often opt for these treatments due to their relatively simple process and minimal recovery times.

Benefits

Chemical peels offer numerous benefits that can enhance not only your skin’s appearance but also your confidence. At Skin Perfect Medical Aesthetics, our specialized chemical peel treatments help patients see results through:

Candidates

Ideal candidates for chemical peels include both men and women seeking cosmetic improvements. You might be a suitable candidate if you experience mild to moderate acne, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture, hyperpigmentation or sun spots, or a dull complexion. Before proceeding, candidates must be in overall good health and possess realistic expectations for their results. Additionally, those with active skin infections or specific skin types, such as very sensitive skin, should consult a medical professional to determine the appropriateness of undergoing a chemical peel.

Consultation

Your journey begins with a personalized consultation at Skin Perfect Medical Aesthetics. During your appointment, one of our expert providers will perform a detailed assessment of your medical history and discuss your desired outcomes. They will examine the condition of your skin, identifying areas needing enhancement and determining the most suitable type of chemical peel.

This thorough approach ensures each patient receives a customized treatment plan aligned with their specific skin concerns and addresses any questions or anxieties surrounding the procedure. Taking this step is integral to crafting an effective strategy for achieving your skincare goals.

To schedule your consultation and first chemical peel, please complete our online form or call your closest Skin Perfect office.

Procedure

There are many different kinds of peels, and each one is performed differently. In general, chemical peels usually begin with vigorous cleansing of the skin.

Light Peels

Very light peels only penetrate the dead skin cells that sit atop the epidermis and produce almost no injury. Sometimes, this level of peel is called “exfoliation.” Light peels, also known as superficial peels, affect the entire epidermis and stimulate the regeneration of a new epidermis. These utilize mild exfoliating agents such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid. ⁽¹⁾ They target the outer layer of the skin to gently improve its appearance, making them ideal for milder skin issues like dryness or rough spots.

Medium Peels

The next step up from light peels is a medium peel. Some medium peels contain trichloroacetic acid (TCA) which is used in medium peels to address deeper skin imperfections. These peels penetrate both the outer and middle layers of skin, effectively treating age spots, moderate wrinkles, and more pronounced uneven skin tone. ⁽²⁾

Deep Peels

Deep peels can address more severe skin concerns, such as deep scars, extensive sun damage, or significant wrinkles, the deep peel uses stronger agents that reach the upper layer of the dermis. Some types of deep peels containing phenol are often used, resulting in dramatic improvement but requiring longer recovery times.

Cosmelan

Cosmelan is a chemical peel treatment intended to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and spotty skin. It will balance irregular skin tone, address sun spots, and reduce the appearance of acne scars. Cosmelan is a two-step process that improves the overall texture of your skin. You will receive the first phase of your Cosmelan treatment here in our office. You can apply the second phase at home, and we can provide specific instructions for at-home care to complete your treatment.

VI Peel Precision Plus

The VI Peel Precision Plus system is optimized with its fast-acting Brightening Booster and Lighten Booster. It is a precise skin rejuvenation program that reduces pigmentation by suppressing melanogenesis and promoting rapid cell turnover. VI Peel Precision Plus is the next generation of chemical peel, proven to perform on UV-induced pigmentation, sun damage, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Recovery

Superficial peels require no recovery time– they are also known as “lunchtime peels.” Recovery from a deep peel requires occlusive (containing skin benefits) bandages and can take weeks to months under normal circumstances. You may be more sensitive to sun exposure regardless of which peels you receive. Take extra precautions by using sunscreen with an SPF of 20 or higher. We recommend limiting sun exposure for at least one week after your peel. Avoid strenuous exercise for 2-3 days, as the perspiration it produces may irritate the skin. Do not scrub your face when washing, instead only gently cleanse your skin. Avoid peeling the skin from your face. Instead of removing peeling skin, apply a light moisturizer. You also must avoid facial treatments for at least one week after your peel.

Results

With good sun protection, results can last months to years, depending on the depth of the peel. Generally, the deeper peels have a longer-lasting effect. Your skin will have a warm, pinkish glow that will usually fade in about 30 minutes, leaving your skin looking healthy and renewed. Your physician or aesthetician will recommend moisturizers, hydrating cleansers, serums, and sunscreen you can use at home to enhance and maintain results.

While you may see visible results after the first treatment, lasting and more significant results will be seen after 4 to 6 treatments spaced 7 to 10 days apart, supplemented by a daily post-care routine.

For some peels, it can take up to 4 days after the patient finishes peeling for the skin to return to its normal pH and to see the final effects. The skin will look luminous and glowing. The patient will feel refreshed with slightly tighter skin. Unwanted pigmentation can be cleared, depending on the amount and type of damage. You can enjoy improved texture, tone, and quality afterward.

Cost of Chemical Peels in Southern California

The cost of a chemical peel varies based on the type of peel and the extent of treatment required. Superficial peels tend to be less expensive than medium or deep peels. Following your consultation, our team will provide a detailed breakdown of expected costs so you can make an informed decision. Skin Perfect Medical Aesthetics also offers financing options for all procedures, so you can pay for your treatment while already experiencing its results.

Take the first step toward healthier skin by scheduling your consultation today. If you have any questions about scheduling, payments, procedures, or more, please call your closest Skin Perfect Medical Aesthetics office and get the information you need. Contact our office or call to schedule a consultation at one of our locations:

FAQ

References

1. Soleymani T, Lanoue J, Rahman Z. A Practical Approach to Chemical Peels: A Review of Fundamentals and Step-by-step Algorithmic Protocol for Treatment. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2018;11(8):21. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6122508/
2. Samargandy S, Raggio BS. Skin Resurfacing Chemical Peels. PubMed. Published 2020. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31613532/