Chemical Peels

What Are The Benefits Of Chemical Peels?

Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin to make skin smoother, reduce scarring and remove blemishes. There are three types of chemical peels, ranging from mild to strong: alphahydroxy acid (AHA), trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol. The strength of each peel is tailored to the patient. Peels can be combined with other procedures, such as facelifts, for additional improvement to skin. Chemical peels may be covered by insurance if they are performed for medical rather than cosmetic reasons.

Chemical peels are performed in a plastic surgeon’s or dermatologist’s office, or an outpatient surgical center. Anesthesia is not required because TCA and phenol have anesthetic properties, and AHA produces only a slight stinging.

What Can I Expect?

During a TCA or phenol peel, the skin is cleansed and the solution is applied, which may cause a brief stinging sensation. Petroleum jelly or a waterproof adhesive tape may be put on the skin following a phenol peel. During an AHA peel, the skin is cleansed and the solution applied; there is no need for post-peel ointment or covering.

Side Effects Of Chemical Peels

A phenol or TCA peel can result in tingling or throbbing, reddened skin, a crust or scab, and significant swelling that lasts about a week, depending on the strength of the peel used. With a phenol peel, eyes may be swollen shut at first, and the patient may be put on a liquid diet and advised to keep talking to a minimum. Any tape used is removed after a day or two. AHA peels can cause temporary stinging, redness and irritation, as well as flaking or crusting. After a chemical peel, it is essential that the skin be protected from the sun.

SkinMedica Professional Peels

Blossom Medical also offers three levels of skin peels to treat your specific skin concerns safely and effectively.

Illuminize Peel

• For mild skin imperfections
• Perfect for first-time peel treatment
• Brightens the overall appearance of the skin
• Vibrant, radiant looking skin after one treatment, but may be done in a series to optimize results
• Minimal down time with no visible peeling

Vitalize Peel

• For mild to moderate skin imperfections
• Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Addresses skin tone and unevenness that can be caused by acne scarring or other pigmentary changes for all skin types
• May be done as a single treatment, or as a part of a series

Rejuvenize Peel

• For moderate to severe skin imperfections
• Strongest SkinMedica peel
• Dramatically smooths the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and roughness
• Noticeable results after just one peel: but can be part of a series
• Address skin tone unevenness that can be caused by acne scarring or other pigmentary changes

Safety Notes about Peels: Please let us know if:

• You have a history of cold sores (we can pre-treat you with Valacyclovir)
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You have used Accutane in the last 6 months
• You have an infection or sunburn
• You have had recent treatment such as waxing
• You are undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy
• You have autoimmune disease