What Is It?
A chemical peel is a skin rejuvenation procedure utilizing an acidic solution to remove the damaged outer layer of skin cells. It is a non-surgical procedure done in the office that helps to exfoliate damaged superficial skin cells and to stimulate the growth of new, healthy skin cells. The surface of the new skin appears smoother and tighter.
Who Will Benefit From Chemical Peels?
Those who will benefit from chemical peels are individuals who desire to have improved appearance of their skin and have experienced noticeable fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation (uneven skin tone), rough skin, large pores, acne, sun damage, or signs of aging.
What Will The Evaluation Involve?
During your first consult or evaluation visit with the physician, you will complete a health history form, review your skin care goals, and have your skin carefully examined. You and your physician will have a thorough discussion concerning your skin treatment options. After your physician determines that chemical peels will be beneficial for you, a qualified Facial Surgery Center staff member will then meet with you. At that point, you will be instructed about post-peel skin care, your new skin care product regimen, and have any additional questions answered. If you desire, you may have your initial chemical peel that day.
What Will Treatment Involve?
The initial visit generally last approximately 1 hour with subsequent visits/peels lasting approximately 30 minutes. You should either arrive without make-up or plan to wash your face upon arrival at the office. Contacts must be removed prior to the peel. The skin will be degreased. With some types of chemical peels, an exfoliation process in which the outer layer of skin cells and fine facial hair is removed in a method called dermaplaning. The acidic solution is applied using a cotton pad and is left on the skin for a designated period of time. During that time, the skin is carefully monitored for redness. A mild stinging or burning is normal and may be minimized by using a hand-held fan directed at the face. Following the chemical peel, cool cloths, then post-procedure skin care products are applied to rest and rejuvenate the skin. Make-up may be applied immediately, with a few exceptions.
What Does Post-Peel Care Involve?
You may notice a sunburn-like or windburn-like reaction after your peel; this is normal. Minor redness is also to be expected and usually resolves in minutes to several hours after your chemical peel. It is important to keep the skin clean with gentle cleansing and well-lubricated using the skin care products your physician recommends. You will receive a package of skin care products for home use following your peel. It is extremely important to avoid sun exposure and to apply a sunscreen of at least SPF-20 daily. It is essential to follow instructions given by Facial Surgery Center staff and call the office if any questions arise.
How Often Can I Have Chemical Peels? Chemical peels can be done as often as weekly or at the frequency recommended by your physician. Once the 6-7 peels are completed, maintenance peels are done approximately every 2 months.
Are There Any Special Considerations? Men should attempt to shave prior to having a peel. Pregnant women or nursing mothers cannot have chemical peels. Also, clients who have used Accutane™ must have stopped its use at least 3-6 months prior to their first peel or as recommended by their physician. Patients with active cold sores cannot have peels; they must first be treated for the herpes cold sore virus and there must not be recurrence before having their first peel. There may be other circumstances that could be revealed during your health history at your initial consult visit.
Can I Wear Make-Up After A Peel? Yes, make-up can be applied immediately after a chemical peel. There is one peel, however, call a Micropeel Plus, for which it is not advisable to apply make-up immediately afterwards.
Will Anyone Be Able To Tell I've Had A Peel? Your skin may have a slightly flushed, reddened appearance as soon as your peel is completed; this redness usually dissipates in several minutes to several hours. You will notice an immediate softness and smoother texture to your skin. Make-up usually goes on easier after a peel.
Does My Medical Insurance Pay For A Chemical Peel? Generally medical insurance will not cover skin resurfacing procedures like chemical peels, however there are some exceptions. Skin problems from trauma (scars) or severe acne scars may be covered by some insurance plans. In these cases the physician will contact your insurance carrier to determine such benefits and coverage.