Chemical Peels
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel uses a unique solution created specifically to cause the top layers of skin to be removed. While it may sound extensive, the procedure is relatively painless. There are many different types of chemical peels out there; all formulated to treat various conditions. These are generally categorized as light or superficial, medium or deep peels.
Light and medium peels may require more treatments to achieve ideal results, but deep peels tend to have a longer recovery time in exchange for more extensive results in a single treatment. Their efficacy has propelled them into being one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed. In 2019, close to a million chemical peels had been completed, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Why Do We Need Chemical Peels?
As our bodies age, we begin to experience a decline in the production of vital proteins. One of those proteins, collagen, is directly responsible for the taut appearance we enjoy in our youth. After the age of 20, collagen begins to slow date at an estimated rate of 1% per year, according to Scientific American.
But proteins aren’t the only factor; by the time most of us care enough about our developing appearance to consider cosmetic treatment, much environmental damage has already been done. UV exposure and free radicals are constant enemies to a good complexion that lead to a lot of textural and tonal concerns.
Unfortunately, there are very few ways to reverse that damage once it has occurred. But chemical peels can do just that. By removing some of the skin in a peel, new layers can be revealed that have not experienced the same amount of damage. The peel also promotes collagen growth, tackling two of the leading facial skin concerns simultaneously.
What Are My Chemical Peel Options?
At Gravity Medical Spa, we offer different types of chemical peels.
ZO Stimulator Peel
The ZO Ossential® Stimulator Peel is the perfect “lunchtime” peel with no downtime. Designed to exfoliate the skin by stimulating cellular turnover, ZO’s enzyme peel is perfect for brightening dull complexions and is safe for all skin types. After the ZO Stimulator Peel, you will notice smoother, brighter, even-toned glowing skin.
VI Peel
The VI Peel is a light-to-medium chemical peel by Vitality Institute Medical Products. It addresses a wide range of cosmetic issues for all skin types and is considered highly versatile and effective.
Perfect Derma Peel
This deep peel is the only option on the market that uses glutathione as an active ingredient. This peel has garnered a quick reputation on social media for the easy procedure and extreme results it can provide.
What Does a Chemical Peel Treat?
A chemical peel can treat many different types of skin concerns, including:
- Fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Sun damage
- Mild scars
- Age spots
- Dark patches
- Freckles
- Dull skin
These are just a few of the most common reasons our patients come into the office for treatment. If you have a different concern, you may still be a good candidate for treatment. Contact our office to schedule a consultation.
Am I a Candidate for a Chemical Peel?
If you have realistic expectations about what a chemical peel can achieve, you are likely a candidate for this procedure. The chemical peels we use are usually suitable for most skin types. Since they are noninvasive procedures, there is typically no need to worry about preexisting conditions or combining treatments.
How Should I Prepare for My Chemical Peel?
Certain prescriptions should not be taken during chemical peel treatment. During your consultation, we will review any current medications and health conditions to ensure you are safely having the procedure. Our expert medical staff will also ensure that you are only having the level of peel necessary for your situation.
What Should I Expect from a Chemical Peel Procedure?
The chemical procedure is a very straightforward, two-step process. The first of the steps is a thorough cleaning of the treatment areas, which helps avoid infection as the new layers of skin are steadily revealed. Once the site has been thoroughly cleansed, the chemical peel begins.
Your medical professional will apply the peel solution to your skin. The exact contents of the peel will depend on whether you are having the VI or Perfect peel performed. These formulas create controlled wounding throughout the face, forcing new skin to take its place.
Most patients report mild burning or tingling during the treatment. Your team may apply cold compressions or provide medications if the discomfort becomes too cumbersome, but this is usually only necessary for deep peels.
What Should I Expect During a Chemical Peel Recovery?
At about three days after your procedure, the old, problematic layer of skin will begin to peel away from your face, and a new vibrant one will take its place. The pain is minimal, and many people liken it to a mild sunburn. You may experience some redness and scaliness for about a week as well.
Deeper peels may also cause some blistering and crusting that can persist for up to two weeks. Bandaging in the treatment area is standard and helps to keep the area clean. We always recommend that you avoid and protect against the sun as much as possible after your procedure. The skin is new, vulnerable and uncalloused, making it highly susceptible to UV damage.
Some peels may require repeat treatment to achieve ideal effects, but this will be determined with your medical professional during your treatment. Everyone reacts to chemical peels differently, so your unique plan will be developed once more information is made available.
What Kind of Results Can I Expect from a Chemical Peel?
You can expect to have noticeable improvement throughout the treatment areas. Patients commonly report significant changes to fine lines near the eyes and mouth, dull skin, facial wrinkling, the appearance of scars, age spots, freckles and other discoloration.
You may need to have repeat treatment to achieve or maintain your results, but you can continue to enjoy the results they provide forever if you maintain the treatment plan.
Chemical Peels in San Juan Capistrano
If you are ready to learn more about how a chemical peel can improve your appearance, give our office a call at (949) 387-6118. You can also fill out our online contact form to have a team member give you a call during a more convenient time. Gravity Medical Spa is looking forward to being your trusted partner during this process.