A chemical peel is a procedure in which a solution is applied to the skin to remove the top layers revealing a bright, healthy, more vibrant complexion. It can dramatically improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, skin tone, and texture and benefits all complexions, even the most sensitive.
What Happens During a Chemical Peel? You will first be prepped for the treatment. This includes cleansing your skin thoroughly and applying any barrier cream to skin folds. After your skin is prepped, your provider will evenly apply the peel. Next, your provider will monitor your skin carefully to remove the peel at just the right time. After the peel comes off, your skin will be treated with cool compresses followed by a lotion or cream to soothe the skin.
How long is the downtime? For a light peel, there is virtually no downtime. However, expect mild redness immediately after the treatment. Light scaling may develop after the redness disappears, which lasts 3 to 7 days. Medium depth peels have no required downtime, but the side effects may be more apparent than a light peel. Redness from the chemical peel can last 1-3 days. Around the second day, the skin will feel slightly tighter, without any signs of having had a facial peel. At about day three, your skin will start to peel. Around day six or day seven, you will be all done with the peeling.
What are the possible side effects? In the hands of an experienced provider, side effects tend to be minimal. However, some patients may develop swelling, blisters, persistent redness, temporary darkening, or lightening of the skin.
When will I see the results? Once your skin heals, you will see the results. Lighter peels may require more treatments for optimal results.
At Clear Choice Dermatology, we have various types and concentrations of chemical solutions used to penetrate different levels and produce different aesthetic results. Generally, there are three types of chemical peels: light, medium, and deep chemical peels. Your provider will determine the best peel for your needs during your cosmetic consultation. To read more about the benefits of chemical peel, check out our blog here.
*individual results may vary