Chemical peels are topically applied formulas that revitalize the skin surface by creating an even and controlled shedding of the skin cells. This allows new layers to be exposed, creating a fresh appearance and smoother texture on the skin's surface. A chemical peel can improve sun damage, acne scarring, blotchy pigmentation, fine lines, etc... A peel can also improve acne-prone skin and clogged pores.

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Micro peels are the most gentle type of chemical peel. These peels are usually made from alpha hydroxy or beta hydroxy acids, known as AHAs and BHAs but can also include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid. A recent trend in superficial peels is to utilize fruit enzymes from pineapples, cranberries, and other acidic fruits. Micro peels remove the epidermis (top layer of skin) which provides a slight improvement to the skin. This type of peel is great for individuals with very minimal traits of aging, sun damage, and acne scaring.

 

However, many people notice significant improvements in their skin after undergoing a series of 6 micro peels

Micro peels are absolutely painless with most patients reporting nothing more than a slight tingling sensation. Also, there is minimal recovery time involved; these peels are often referred to as lunchtime peels as many women go back to work after treatment without any noticeable differences. You may be slightly red afterwards but this can be easily disguised with makeup.

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Medium peels produce a more dramatic result compared to superficial peels. This type of peel sometimes utilizes trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to penetrate the skin and remove layers below the epidermis. As such medium peels can treat moderate pigmentation, wrinkles, and sun damage.

Most patients who undergo medium peels report feeling slight to moderate discomfort, usually in the form of minor burning or stinging. This discomfort typically subsides 30 minutes to an hour after treatment. Medium peels also produce more peeling of the skin and thus the face can become swollen, pink and itchy after treatment. Generally, full recovery takes about 7-10 days.

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 Chemical Peel/Microneedling After Care Instructions

• Gently cleanse your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser, 24 hours after treatment (elixir bar or a gentle cleanser of your choice)

•  Please do not pick or pull your skin at any time after your peel, as it can cause scarring. Your skin will take about 7 to 10 days to completely peel depending on the strength of the peel or treatment you received. Chemical peel on the body, chest, or arms often takes longer (up to 3 weeks). 

• ∙ Please do not exfoliate using a cleansing brush or any facial scrub or acid based products for 2 weeks; longer if the peel is done on the body. 

• ∙ Do not use any products that contain AHA, Glycolic, Retin-A, or any acne medication until your skin has finished peeling (usually 7 days, but possibly longer). 

• ∙ Keep skin well hydrated by drinking at least three 8-ounce glasses of water per day, and moisturizing throughout the day with a good moisturizer (Doll Protector) both day and night. Reapply throughout the day as often as needed. Your skin should never be so dry that it is cracking or sore. 

• Refrain from waxing, tanning, or using sunbeds for 3 weeks. 

•  Avoid working out and sweating for at least 24 hours and up to 48 hours. 

• Apply a thin layer of A&D ointment after moisturizing. 

• Finally, use SPF 30 or higher (Kiehls Ultra Face Cream SPF 30) consistently throughout the day. REAPPLY, REAPPLY, REAPPLY, for this will limit your skin from burning in the sun (even when it’s cloudy out or when sitting by a window) and will minimize the chances of more sun damage and discoloration. 

 

Breakouts after a chemical peel are normal. Peels accelerate your cell turnover, it is normal to have a purging phase when you first start treating the skin. During the beginning of the purging phase you can notice things such as breakouts and areas of pigmentation getting darker.

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