Chemical Peels
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Deciding what Chemical peel would be best for you?
Having a discussion with your healthcare professional can help you make the best decision for your skin that will leave you glowing.
We offer medical-grade in-office chemical peels, which are a form of chemical exfoliation. This is done to address a variety of skin concerns, like melasma, acne, fine lines, and dark spots. All can be done during a short office visit and have minimal to moderate downtime, depending on the type of peel done. It is important to note that all chemical peels make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so appropriate sun protective measures should be used post-procedure. Most patients will need a series of peels to achieve their desired outcome.
What Are Glycolic Chemical Peels?
Glycolic chemical peels (also known as glycolic acid peels) are cosmetic treatments with mild peels and great for most skin types and can be used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, and to improve skin texture and skin tone.
This is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) peel that involves applying a glycolic acid solution (20%, 30%, or 40%) to the skin to remove dead skin cells and stimulate collagen production gently. It is safe on a wide variety of skin tones and does not typically cause a visible “peel” of the skin. This chemical peel has very little downtime and is great for those looking to brighten their complexion, treat melasma, or minimize signs of sun damage.
They are best for treating surface imperfections, like light skin discolorations, acne, and blackheads. This chemical peel is also good for treating melasma and pore reduction.
How Does the Glycolic Chemical Peel Work?
Glycolic acids also stimulate collagen, so over time, multiple glycolic peels may help with very fine wrinkles and mild skin imperfections. For best results, we recommend a series of four chemical peel treatments every 4 to 6 weeks and periodically thereafter to maintain results. There’s usually no obvious peeling with glycolic peels and results become visible after a series of treatments.
Glycolic Chemical Peel Treatment Process
Salicylic Acid Peel
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from willow bark that is known for its ability to penetrate deep into the pores and dissolve excess oil and debris. This peel involves applying a medical-grade strength solution of salicylic acid to the skin to unclog pores, reduce oiliness, and treat acne. Mild flaking is normal for up to a week post-peel. It is safe on a wide variety of skin tones.
Jessner’s Chemical Peel
This is a medium-depth peel that involves the application of a blend of different acids (lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol). This is a stronger peel that is known for delivering great results for a wide variety of skin concerns, including lightening sun spots, smoothing fine lines, and overall brightening. The downtime is moderate and varies between individual patients. It is also dependent on how many coats are applied. Your skin may look pink to red afterward, and you will experience flaking for up to one week. This peel is best for lighter skin tones as there is a risk of post-inflammatory pigmentary changes in those with darker skin tones.
VI Peels
VI Peels are a range of medium-depth chemical peels designed to address various skin concerns like wrinkles, acne, hyperpigmentation, and uneven texture. The treatment, taking about 20 minutes, involves applying a VI Peel solution that penetrates the skin.
Types of VI Peels include the Original, Advanced, Precision Plus, and Purify with Precision Plus, each formulated to target specific needs such as aging, discoloration, and acne scars.
All VI Peels use specialized ingredients to rejuvenate the skin, making it appear firmer, brighter, and smoother. Suitable for all skin types, these peels are safe and involve minimal downtime.
Patients should avoid sun exposure and certain skincare products before and after treatment. For optimal results, two to three sessions spaced one month apart are recommended. Consultations at the Dermatology Institute provide personalized guidance on the best VI Peel for each patient.
