CHEMICAL PEELS

Give the face a more even appearance

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CREATING SMOOTHER SKIN IN HAMPTON ROADS

Chemical peels are cosmetic procedures that aim to smooth fine lines and wrinkles and give the face a more even appearance. During a procedure, a chemical mixture is applied to the face to remove the outer layers of skin. The result is smoother skin with a more even skin tone.

Types of Chemical Peels

There are three levels of chemical peels that our team at Peninsula Dermatology Skin Cancer Surgery Center can administer. The type that you get depends on your medical history and individual treatment goals. The three types are:

Light chemical peel

Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and beta hydroxy acid (BHA) are both considered light chemical peels. Light chemical peels are superficial, removing only the top layers of skin. Light chemical peels can smoothen fine wrinkles and lines, treat acne and even the skin tone.

Medium-depth chemical peel

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels are considered medium-depth chemical peels. Medium-depth chemical peels not only remove the top layers of skin, but also the upper portion of the middle layer of skin. The result is a deeper peel for smoother skin, reduction of acne scars and diminishing of fine lines.

Deep chemical peel

Phenol peels are considered deep chemical peels. Deep chemical peels penetrate the skin cells, and are beneficial for smoothing deeper wrinkles, scars or sun damage.

What To Expect From A Chemical Peel

Before getting a chemical peel, a provider at Peninsula Dermatology Skin Cancer Surgery Center will discuss your medical history, your treatment goals and determine which type of chemical peel is right for you. Prior to the procedure, we will outline what you can expect from the procedure, including preparation, recovery time and possible side effects.

Before a chemical peel

Before a chemical peel, your doctor may prescribe topical creams such as retinoids to aid in skin recovery. It is important to avoid unprotected sun exposure and to cease using any potentially irritating cosmetic creams or treatments, such as face masks, hair dye or hair removal products.

During a chemical peel

During a chemical peel, your provider will protect your hair, eyebrows and eyes from being exposed to the chemical mixture. Depending on the type of chemical peel, your provider will use a sponge, gauze or cotton applicator to apply the chemical mixture to the face. You may feel some stinging or irritation during the application.

After a chemical peel

After a chemical peel, the skin may be dry, flaky, red and irritated. The total recovery time depends on the type of chemical peel— however, during this time, use cold compresses to alleviate discomfort and redness and over-the-counter pain medication. Avoid unprotected sun exposure during this time.

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Are Chemical Peels Right For You?

Chemical peels are a great non-invasive cosmetic treatment option for patients who want smoother skin. However, they are not right for everyone. Women who are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, patients who have frequent outbreaks of cold sores or patients who have taken oral acne medication are not recommended to get them. The best way to know whether you are a good candidate for this treatment is by requesting a consultation appointment with the Peninsula Dermatology Skin Cancer Surgery Center team. Our team will discuss your medical history and treatment goals, and determine if they are the right option for you.