Overview
A chemical peel is a skin-resurfacing procedure in which a chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove the top layers. The skin that grows back after a chemical peel is smoother and younger looking.
Chemical peels are used to treat wrinkles, skin discoloration and scars — typically on the face. A chemical peel can be done alone or in combination with other cosmetic procedures.
Chemical peels can be done at different depths — light, medium or deep — depending on your desired results. Each type of chemical peel uses a different chemical solution. Deeper chemical peels produce more-dramatic results, but also involve longer recovery times.
Why it's Done
A chemical peel can be used to treat various skin problems. Depending on the issues you're addressing with the procedure, you'll choose a chemical peel in one of three depths:
- Light chemical peel. A light (superficial) chemical peel removes the outer layer of skin (epidermis). It can be used to treat fine wrinkles, acne, uneven skin tone and dryness. You might have a light chemical peel as often as every two to five weeks — depending on your desired results.
- Medium chemical peel. This type of chemical peel removes skin cells from the epidermis and from portions of the upper part of your middle layer of skin (dermis). A medium chemical peel can treat wrinkles, acne scars and uneven skin tone. You might repeat a medium chemical peel after three to nine months to maintain results.
- Deep chemical peel. A deep chemical peel removes skin cells from the epidermis and from portions of the mid to lower layer of your dermis. Your doctor might recommend a deep chemical peel if you have deeper wrinkles, scars or precancerous growths. A deep chemical peel can only be performed once.
What can I expect from Dr. Beverly's treatment?
Your face will first be cleaned with pads then the chemical will be applied. After a minute your skin will start stinging. After two or three minutes the stinging will increase and it will then fade quickly. Your face will then be rinsed with water and a moisturizer will be applied, as well as a sunscreen. Your skin may look pink in color and after one to five days your skin will start to peel. The peeling differs in every case; it can go from big dry flakes to almost invisible peels. You should not pull any of the scales as this can affect the procedure. Peels are recommended every two to four weeks for better results. Your dermatologist can recommend different treatments depending on your skin. To see better results, wait after three peels.
*Individual results may vary for all cosmetic procedures
What types of chemical peels do Dr. Beverly offer?
We offer TCA peels, Salicylic Acid, and Jessners.