Chemical Peels®
For a smoother, fresher face

Chemical peels are becoming more and more popular as a way to freshen the face by removing the outer layer of skin to reveal the smoother, newer skin underneath. People of all skin types can benefit from chemical peels to give their face a younger, healthier look.

What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is an outpatient procedure that uses a chemical such as alphahydroxy acid to remove damaged skin cells from the outer layer of skin. The chemical is applied with a brush or other soft applicator and usually left on your skin only for a few minutes.

What Can a Chemical Peel Do For Me?
* A chemical peel can smooth rough skin and improve its texture.
* Chemical peels can clear facial blemishes for a period of time.
* Chemical peels can temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
* If you have splotches, age spots, or uneven skin tone, chemical peels are a great way to alleviate the problem.
* Chemical peels can reduce the appearance of scars caused by acne and can sometimes control acne breakouts.
* A chemical peel can be performed on the entire face or just the problem areas.
* Certain types of chemical peels can be used on other parts of the body besides the face.
* Chemical peels can even remove growths that are pre-cancerous .

What Does a Chemical Peel Feel Like?
* Most chemical peels sting or burn only slightly or produce a short sensation of heat while applied, but the sensation is very mild.
* Most chemical peels take no more than 15 minutes to perform. However, more extensive peels can take as long as two hours.
* No anesthetic is required for chemical peels because most of the chemicals themselves have anesthetic properties. In the case of deep peels, which penetrate several layers of skin, pain medication can be administered during and after the treatment to reduce discomfort.

What Can I Expect After the Procedure?
* You may go home immediately after most types of chemical peels and resume normal activities. However, some types will require someone to drive you home and help you around the house for a couple of days after the treatment.
* Depending upon the type of peel you receive, the doctor may apply an ointment and/or cover the area that has been treated with bandages, which can be removed within a few days.
* Some kinds of peels cause your skin to be red, dry, and flaky for about a week after the procedure. In some cases, a scab may form during the healing process.
* For the more extensive chemical peels, you may experience some throbbing pain. The doctor will give you a low dose of medication to alleviate your discomfort.
* You may have to have several chemical peels to correct certain kinds of problems.
* The new layer of skin will be more vulnerable to sun damage for a period of time. The doctor will instruct you the best way to cleanse, moisturize, and protect the treated skin from the sun.
* In the case of a deep "phenol" peel for more extensive skin problems, it is common to experience a good deal of swelling, redness, and/or water blisters. With this type of peel, you may be instructed to stay home from work for as long as two weeks and keep your head elevated when lying down to reduce swelling.
* Most chemical peel results are temporary, but how long they last depends upon each individual.

What are the Risks of Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels are very safe, but as with every medical procedure, there are some risks, such as scars, infection, or allergic reaction. Deeper peels are often not recommended for those with darker skin, as they can cause pigmentation problems. The doctor can conduct a test peel to a small area to see how your skin reacts. Phenol peels have, on rare occasions, caused severe complications.