Question 1

What is a Chemical Peel?

Accepted Answer

A chemical peel is a medical-grade product that combines a unique blend of powerful ingredients to address various skin concerns.

Chemical peels are designed to:
1. Improve Skin Tone and Texture: It helps to smooth the skin's texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and promote a more even skin tone.
2. Reduce Hyperpigmentation: Peels can be effective in reducing the appearance of dark spots, age spots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation.
3. Clear Acne and Acne Scarring: It can help to clear active acne and improve the appearance of acne scars.
4. Stimulate Collagen Production: Peels promote collagen and elastin production, leading to firmer and more youthful-looking skin.
5. Minimize Pore Size: Chemical peels can reduce the size of enlarged pores, giving skin a smoother and refined appearance.
6. Brighten and Revitalize the Skin: It enhances the skin's radiance and leaves it looking more refreshed and revitalized.

Question 2

How does it work?

Accepted Answer

A chemical peel works through a combination of carefully selected ingredients that promote exfoliation, skin rejuvenation, and the stimulation of collagen and elastin production. There are various peels to target specific issues, and an in-depth consultation will help us decide which peel is right for you.  Peel ingredients vary, depending on which product is used, but these ingredients work together to address particular skin concerns and improve the overall appearance and health of the skin.

1. Chemical Exfoliation: The peel formulations we use contain a blend of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid, among others. These acids help to exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin, removing dead skin cells, debris, and impurities.
2. Stimulation of Collagen and Elastin: The peels contain a peptide blend that stimulates collagen and elastin production in the deeper layers of the skin. Collagen and elastin are crucial proteins that maintain skin elasticity and firmness, contributing to a more youthful appearance.
3. Skin Lightening Agents: Chemical peels also include skin brightening agents like vitamin C and hydroquinone (in some formulations), which help to reduce hyperpigmentation, fade dark spots, and even out skin tone.
4. TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid): This ingredient provides a medium-depth peel, penetrating deeper into the skin than the AHAs and BHAs. TCA helps to promote more significant skin rejuvenation and improvement of fine lines, acne scars, and texture irregularities.
5. Retinoid: Some versions of the peels contain retinoic acid, a form of vitamin A. Retinoids are well-known for their ability to boost cell turnover, promote collagen synthesis, and improve skin texture.

Chemical peels are applied topically to the skin and are left on for a specific period, depending on the skin type and the level of skin issues being addressed. Following the application of the product,  skin will start to peel and shed its outermost layer. This process usually occurs over several days, revealing fresher, more radiant skin underneath. During the peeling phase, it's essential to avoid picking or pulling at the skin to prevent potential complications. Once the peeling is complete, the new skin is smoother, more even, and healthier in appearance.

Question 3

Does it hurt?

Accepted Answer

The level of discomfort experienced during a chemical peel can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience mild to moderate sensations of heat, tingling, or stinging during the application of the peel. However, these sensations are generally well-tolerated by most people and are temporary.

Most peels contain a blend of acids, including alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), which can cause a tingling or mild stinging sensation when applied to the skin. Additionally, the peel may induce some heat, but it is typically short-lived.

To minimize discomfort during the procedure, your skincare professional may use a fan or a cooling device to help soothe the skin. Some peel formulations also include numbing agents or topical anesthetics to further reduce any potential discomfort.

It's important to communicate with your skincare professional during the treatment. If you experience any discomfort that becomes unbearable, let them know, and they can adjust the treatment or take steps to make you more comfortable.

After the peel is completed, you may experience some redness and tightness in the treated area, similar to a mild sunburn. These sensations should subside over the next few hours to days.

Overall, most individuals find the discomfort associated with a chemical peel to be tolerable, and the potential benefits of the treatment typically outweigh any temporary sensations during the procedure.

Question 4

What are the side effects?

Accepted Answer

Peels are generally considered safe when performed by a trained and licensed skincare professional. However, like any cosmetic procedure, there may be potential side effects and risks associated with the treatment. It's essential to be aware of these before undergoing a peel. Some possible side effects include:
1. Redness: After the peel, the treated area may appear red, similar to a mild sunburn. This redness is temporary and usually subsides within a few days.
2. Peeling or Flaking: Within the first 24 to 48 hours, the skin may start to peel or flake as the outermost layer undergoes exfoliation. This peeling process usually continues over the next few days. During the peeling phase, it's essential to avoid picking or pulling at the skin to prevent potential complications.
3. Sensitivity: The treated skin may be more sensitive than usual after the peel. It is essential to avoid harsh products and sun exposure during the healing process.
4. Dryness: Some individuals may experience temporary dryness or tightness in the treated area as the skin undergoes its renewal process.
5. Hyperpigmentation or Hypopigmentation: In rare cases, the skin's pigmentation may be affected, leading to either darker (hyperpigmentation) or lighter (hypopigmentation) spots. This risk is generally minimized by following proper post-treatment care.
6. Infection: There is a small risk of infection following a chemical peel, especially if post-treatment instructions are not followed correctly.
7. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be sensitive to the ingredients in the peel solution and may experience an allergic reaction.  If you experience intense itching or burning several hours after application of your peel, please contact us.
8. Scarring: While uncommon, improper application or aftercare could potentially lead to scarring. This is much less likely when the peel is performed by a skilled professional.

During your consultation, we will discuss which peel is appropriate for your skin concerns. Since safety is our number one priority, we will discuss your medical history and any conditions or medications you take. We may reserve the right to deny a chemical peel or any other procedure if we feel as though it may be harmful based upon your personal medical history.

Question 5

What is the down time?

Accepted Answer

The downtime for most chemical peel treatments typically lasts around 5 to 7 days, while the skin starts to peel or flake as the outermost layer undergoes exfoliation. However, some of our ‘no peel’ peels have no downtime at all.  We will discuss which peel best suits your skin and your lifestyle during your consultation.

Question 6

When will I see results?

Accepted Answer

The results of a chemical peel can vary depending on the individual's skin type, the specific skin concerns being addressed, and the depth of the peel. However, in general, you can expect to start seeing noticeable results within a few days to a week after the treatment.

Here's a rough timeline of what you might expect after a peel:

1. Immediate post-treatment: After the peel, your skin may appear slightly red or flushed, and there may be a mild tingling sensation. Some individuals also notice an immediate improvement in skin texture and brightness.
2. Day 1-2: During this time, the redness and tingling usually subside. The skin may start to feel tighter, and you may notice some initial peeling or flaking, particularly around the mouth and nose.
3. Day 3-5: The peeling process usually continues during this phase, and you may experience more significant shedding of the outermost layer of the skin. Your complexion may temporarily appear uneven as the dead skin is sloughed off.
4. Day 7 and Beyond: By the end of the first week, the majority of the peeling should have subsided. At this point, you should start noticing the full effects of the peel, including smoother and more even skin tone, reduced appearance of hyperpigmentation, and improved skin texture.

It's important to note that individual responses to the peel can vary. Some individuals may experience a more pronounced peeling phase, while others may have a milder reaction. Additionally, multiple peel sessions may be recommended to achieve optimal results, especially for specific skin concerns like acne scars or deep wrinkles.

Question 7

How long will results last?

Accepted Answer

The duration of peel results can vary from person to person and depends on several factors, including individual skin characteristics, lifestyle, and how well post-treatment care is followed. In general, the results of a peel can last for several months, with some benefits continuing for even longer. However, the longevity of the results is not indefinite, and periodic maintenance treatments may be necessary to sustain the improvements over time.
Here are some key points to consider regarding the longevity of chemical peel results:

1. Skin Regeneration Cycle: The skin has a natural regeneration cycle, and the benefits of a peel are a result of the exfoliation and stimulation of collagen production. As the skin undergoes its normal turnover, the effects of the peel may gradually diminish.
2. Aging and Lifestyle Factors: The natural aging process, sun exposure, smoking, diet, and other lifestyle factors can affect how long the results of the peel last. To extend the benefits, it's crucial to adopt a healthy skincare routine, protect the skin from sun damage through consistent sunscreen use, and avoid other factors that can prematurely age the skin.
3. Skin Concerns and Treatment Schedule: The specific skin concerns being addressed can impact how long the results last. For instance, improvements in fine lines and skin texture may have more prolonged effects compared to treating certain forms of hyperpigmentation. Additionally, the number of peel sessions you undergo and the frequency of maintenance treatments can influence the durability of the results.
4. Maintenance Treatments: To prolong the benefits of the peel, many individuals opt for periodic maintenance treatments.

Remember that individual responses to the peel can vary, and some people may experience longer-lasting results than others.

Chemical Peels