Chemical Peels

Chemical peels date back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome as one of the oldest cosmetic procedures in the world. Still used today, chemical peels have become a popular choice for patients looking to improve the overall look and texture of their skin.

Sun exposure, acne, and aging can leave skin tone uneven, wrinkled, spotted, or scarred. A chemical peel can be used to help correct these problems and significantly improve the skin’s appearance. Although chemical peels are used mostly on the face, they can also be used to treat the skin on the hands, neck, and décolletage.

Indications:

A chemical peel can dramatically improve the appearance of the skin on the face, hands, neck and décolletage. A chemical peel leaves your skin looking smoother, healthier, plumper, and tighter.

A chemical peel effectively reduces or eliminates many skin imperfections, including:

• Acne
• Post-acne scarring
• Rough patches and dry, scaly skin
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Sun spots
• Irregular pigmentation
• Enlarged pores

Potential Risks and Complications

Adverse reactions are uncommon with chemical peels but can include scarring, numbness, and infection. Risks are dependent on the type of chemical used and the medical condition of the patient. Following mild to medium peels, patients may often experience mild irritation, redness, and peeling. These side effects will usually last for only a few days. Stronger chemical peels usually involve a longer recovery time, and the peeling and/or crusting of the treated area is typically more pronounced. As with any medical procedure, patients who decide to undergo a chemical peel are less likely to experience adverse reactions if they follow pre- and post-procedure instructions. The best way to decide if a chemical peel is right for you is to have a consultation with our licensed master esthetician.

Recovery

After a chemical peel, patients can expect their skin to be pink to red in color and to feel very tight. A recovery period is to be expected. The skin should begin to peel in 2 to 3 days and may continue for as long as a week. Proper care of the skin following a peel is important. Our licensed master esthetician will help to advise you on everything from how to cleanse your skin properly to the use of sun protection. During the recovery period, sun avoidance is critical. After the peeling process is complete, patients can resume normal activities; however, the daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher is imperative for maintaining healthy skin.

Results

Chemical peels leave the skin feeling smoother, with a more radiant appearance. They help to remove dead skin cells, increase cellular turnover, and stimulate healthy cell growth. For the best results, these treatments should be done in conjunction with a comprehensive skin care program, including proper sun protection.

Cost

Our license master esthetician will advise you on the chemical peel treatment that is best suited for your skin and your skin care goals. Although improvement is often noted with 1 peel, a series of 4 to 6 is recommended. Our chemical peel packages help our patients achieve their goal and take into consideration their budget.

We welcome you to call The Fountain Skincare & Medspa at Mancoll Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery at (757) 305-9185. Our licensed master esthetician, Morgan Outman, believes in educating each of her patients on the benefits of skin care procedures, such as chemical peels, and she looks forward to meeting you.