Chemical peels are cosmetic procedures that use chemical solutions to remove the damaged outer layers of your skin.
They are primarily used on the face, however they can also be used on the neck and hands.
At Anne Arundel ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery, we’re dedicated to offering the residents of Annapolis and Severna Park cutting-edge MediSpa treatments to help rejuvenate and enhance the skin’s appearance. One of our highly sought-after treatments is the chemical peel, a non-invasive procedure that promotes healthier, more radiant skin.
Chemical peels are composed of different types of acidic compounds that are brushed onto the skin and left in place for a designated amount of time. Some peels only require a matter of minutes, while others require hours. The acids used in chemical peels will cause the skin to eventually blister and peel, much like a moderate sunburn.
Did You Know?
The Perfect Derma™ Peel and Glytone Peels are considered to be medium chemical peels. A medium chemical peel removes skin from both the outer layer (epidermis) and the upper part of the middle layer of skin (dermis). These are the same layers of skin that can become damaged by a severe sunburn.
Signs You Might Need a Chemical Peel
- Enlarged Pores: Dirt and oil can make pores appear larger over time. A chemical peel can help minimize their appearance.
- Melasma: This is a tan or dark skin discoloration commonly found in women during hormonal changes, such as pregnancy.
- Age Spots: These are flat, gray, brown, or black spots that often appear due to years of sun exposure.
- Texture Inconsistencies: Areas of the skin that feel bumpy or uneven.
- Frequent Breakouts: For those who continually experience pimples, even past the typical “acne years.”
- Loss of Skin Vitality: If the skin no longer bounces back as it once did or appears sallow.
- Scar Appearance: Chemical peels can reduce the appearance of minor scars, making them less noticeable.
- Freckling: Extensive freckling from sun exposure might be evened out with a chemical peel.
Remember, while these signs might indicate that a chemical peel could be beneficial, consulting with a doctor to determine the best treatment for individual skin needs is essential.
Restore Your Skin's Glow
As the largest and outermost organ, our skin gets exposed to a lot on a daily basis. As a result, skin on the face, hands, and neck can start to look dull and/or be littered with various imperfections. By removing skin cells from the epidermis, and sometimes the dermis as well, chemical peels help to remove old skin cells in order to allow new skin to become visible.
How Your Skin Can Change
- Reduce the appearance of acne scars
- Remove signs of aging like crown’s feet, age spots, and wrinkles
- Repair sun-damaged skin
- Correct hyperpigmentation & melasma
- Improve the appearance of scars
Why Consider a Chemical Peel?
- Revitalize Your Skin: Over time, our skin is exposed to various elements that can lead to damage and signs of aging. A chemical peel provides a fresh start by removing damaged skin layers, revealing a younger, smoother surface underneath.
- Boost Confidence: Many patients find that improving skin imperfections boosts their self-esteem. A chemical peel can offer that renewed sense of confidence, making you feel as radiant on the outside as you do on the inside.
- Enhance Skincare Regimen: By removing dead skin cells and promoting new cell growth, chemical peels can improve the effectiveness of your skincare products. This means better absorption and better results from your daily regimen.
Perfect Derma™ Peel
A medical-grade peel that contains trichloroacetic acid (TCA), retinoic acid (vitamin A), salicylic & kojic acids, phenol, and vitamin C. It is also the only chemical peel that contains an antioxidant known as glutathione, which is used to increase cellular turnover and decrease signs of aging. The Perfect Derma™ Peel decreases the appearance of acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage.
Glytone Acid Peels
Glytone peels use glycolic acid, which is an exfoliant that removes old skin cells from the outermost layer. Unlike other glycolic acid peels, however, Glytone uses Precision Free Acid Values (PFAV™) as the amount of acid that comes in contact with the skin. This allows your provider to apply the product in a safer and more effective way that minimizes skin irritation while yielding dramatic results.
Treatment Process
Consultation: Before undergoing a chemical peel, you’ll have a consultation with a skilled doctor to determine the best peel for your skin type and desired results.
Preparation: Depending on your skin type and the specific peel, you may be asked to follow a skincare routine leading up to the procedure.
Procedure: The chosen solution will be applied to your skin during the treatment. You might feel a tingling or slight burning sensation, which is normal and temporary.
Aftercare: After the procedure, it’s vital to follow the doctor's aftercare instructions, which may include moisturizing, avoiding direct sunlight, and using specific skincare products.
With the Perfect Derma™ Peel, you can expect to have the peel administered in our office. Although it only takes around 15 minutes to complete, you will then need to leave the peel in place for 6 hours.
You will be given a home care kit with a moisturizer and post-peel towelettes to use as directed. Around the third day, the outer layer of your skin will start to peel. The peeling process generally lasts about 3-4 days.
Glytone peels are applied using the Enerpeel® procedure. This procedure allows the peel to penetrate deeper into the skin, while minimizing irritation. During the peel procedure, you may experience mild tingling, itching, or warmth. The entire procedure only takes about 20 minutes. Starting approximately 3 days after the procedure, you will notice your skin starting to flake. Flaking and peeling can occur for up to 2 weeks afterwards.
Recovery Process
- You will be able to return home within the same day
- No downtime
- Avoid strenuous activities that can make you sweat
- Limit sun exposure
- Avoid picking at skin
Chemical peels are a non-invasive method to help you rejuvenate skin on the face, neck, and hands. By removing the outermost layer of skin, chemical peels allow new skin to surface. The result is clear, healthy skin that is free from imperfections.
Prevention for Better Skin Health
While chemical peels provide fantastic results, maintaining optimal skin health is crucial. Always apply sunscreen daily, even during overcast days, to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Regularly moisturize to keep your skin hydrated and elastic. Also, adopting a balanced diet rich in antioxidants can help keep your skin glowing from the inside out. Lastly, consider periodic chemical peels as part of a comprehensive skincare routine.
Outlook After a Chemical Peel
Patients can expect brighter, smoother, and more even-toned skin following a chemical peel. The results can last for months, depending on the depth of the peel and aftercare. Over time, with regular treatments and proper skincare, the benefits compound, leading to visibly healthier skin.
Side Effects and Recovery: It’s not uncommon to experience redness, peeling, or mild irritation after the treatment. However, these side effects are generally temporary. The doctor will provide guidance on how to minimize these effects and promote a faster recovery.
Long-Term Benefits: Beyond the immediate results, chemical peels stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity. This means the benefits extend well beyond the initial post-peel glow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a chemical peel?
A: A chemical peel is a non-invasive skincare treatment that uses a chemical solution to remove damaged skin layers, promoting the growth of newer, healthier skin.
Q: How long does the recovery from a chemical peel take?
A: Recovery depends on the depth of the peel. Mild peels may lead to redness and peeling for a few days, while deeper peels might require a week or more for the skin to heal. Our doctors provide detailed aftercare instructions to expedite recovery.
Q: Are chemical peels suitable for all skin types?
A: Chemical peels can be tailored for various skin types. Our doctor will assess your skin during the consultation and recommend the best peel for your specific needs and desired results.
Time to Reveal Your Radiance
At Anne Arundel ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery, we understand the importance of feeling confident in your skin. Chemical peels are just one of the many MediSpa treatments we offer to help our patients achieve that radiant glow. Ready to unveil healthier, younger-looking skin? Call us today at (410) 573-9191 to schedule your consultation.
