Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is a solution made up of a blend of acids that encourages exfoliation, or the detachment of dead skin cells, in the skin. Different acids effectively treat specific skin concerns, such as salicylic acid for acne and lactic acid for pigmentation. As dead layers of skin lift away, new, healthy cells can surface. At Infinite Youth Medical Spa, we customize chemical peels for each patient. Your provider can layer peels, adjust their strength, and even control the depth at which the peel absorbs into your skin.

Chemical peels work by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells and the oils on our skin, therefore speeding up our skin's natural exfoliation process. When a peel is applied, a chemical reaction begins to occur, and the peel's active ingredients absorb into deeper layers.

Throughout the next few days, the skin may gradually begin to flake and shed as new, healthier functioning cells work their way to the surface. Each peel reveals smoother, brighter, tighter, and more even skin. A series of chemical peels can correct skin damage from the inside out by progressively exfoliating layers of damaged cells away.

Chemical peels are effective in the treatment of common skin concerns such as:

• Pustular and congestive acne
• Blackheads and whiteheads
• Acne scarring
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Sun damage and pigment irregularities
• Hormonal pigmentation, such as melasma
• Aging skin
• Sensitive skin and rosacea
• Dry and dehydrated skin
• Rough, uneven skin texture

The benefits of chemical peels include:

• Reduction in acne-causing bacteria
• Reduced oil production
• Reduced occurrence of acne breakouts
• Clearer skin and pores
• Lightening of skin discolorations, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage
• Smoother, firmer, tighter skin
• Increased luminosity and brightness
• Reduced redness and flushing
• Softening of fine lines and wrinkles

Regardless of your skin type, color, or condition – there's a chemical peel for you! Peels can be customized to treat even the most sensitive skin. During your initial consultation, your provider will discuss anything in your medical history that may make you temporarily contraindicated for a specific chemical peel, such as:

• Pregnancy or nursing
• Active infection on the skin
• Current sunburn or sun exposure

Chemical peels are an excellent option for anyone looking to progressively improve their skin's overall health and appearance with minimal downtime. Still, it is essential to schedule your chemical peel at least two weeks before any special event to allow time for your skin to exfoliate thoroughly.

YES! Chemical peels are very effective when combined in a treatment strategy with SkinPen® Microneedling and performed every other month when you are not microneedling. Peels can be done two weeks before or one week after Botox® or filler.

How often you receive a chemical peel will depend upon the skin condition you are treating and its severity. For example, it is beneficial to treat acne with chemical peels every four weeks to keep bacteria and oil production under control until the skin clears. On the other hand, when using a deeper peel to treat conditions like hormonal melasma, your provider may recommend six weeks between treatments. You'll receive a recommendation for your ideal treatment strategy and schedule during your initial consultation.

Many patients choose to begin a series of chemical peels in the fall when they know they will be out of the sun for multiple months. It is important to plan your peels around your social calendar to allow for several days of flaking after your treatment.

It is beneficial to prep your skin before any chemical peel service by using a customized professional skincare line that emphasizes exfoliation to condition your skin for deeper peeling. If you are not currently using a professional skincare line tailored to your skin and goals, our staff can help you select a product regimen.

Before your chemical peel, it is essential to avoid the following:

• Sun exposure and tanning
• Laser skincare services less than two weeks before your service
• Facial waxing
• Skincare products containing retinol, which enhances exfoliation and can make a peel more intense and unpredictable

During your appointment, your provider will cleanse and degrease your skin. She will then protect your eyes and apply the chemical peel with gauze or a fan brush to your skin. She may apply several layers of the peel to enhance strength and penetration. During application, you may feel a slight tingling and warmth rise in your skin. This sensation is normal and will subside quickly after the peel has neutralized. Some peels are left on the skin and others are removed before you leave the medical spa. Your provider will advise you on proper skincare after your peel.

Depending on your skin and the chemical used, exfoliation may only occur on the cellular level without much physical peeling or flaking. If visible peeling does occur, most patients notice their skin will begin to flake on the second or third day after the peel was applied. Peels have minimal downtime, and you can wear makeup as soon as the day after your peel. It is essential to wear a daily physical SPF of at least 30 after your treatment to avoid complications, as your skin will be sensitive to sunlight.