Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a great way to improve the appearance of the skin without surgery. Simply explained, a chemical peel is a carefully formulated solution that when applied to the skin, causes the top layers to loosen and peel away. The newly exposed skin has a fresher, brighter appearance, and usually has less fine lines and is more even in tone. Depending on the depth of the peel, chemical peels can be used to reduce fine lines (especially under the eyes and around the mouth), reduce mild acne scarring and skin discolorations (such as age spots and freckles), and revitalize the texture and tone of the skin.
At Rao Dermatology, we offer glycolic, Jessner, and TCA (trichloroacetic acid) peels. Each of these peels can be customized to meet specific needs of the patient. The most important part of any chemical peel is your consultation with the doctor, where you will have a thorough evaluation, and discuss your needs, expectations, and comfort level. When discussing recovery time, be sure to let your physician know if there are any upcoming special events in your life that you are preparing for.
Because some peels are most effective when done in a series, we offer package pricing that allows our patients plan ahead and save in the process.
Chemical peels usually do not remove deeper wrinkles or broken blood vessels. For more information on those conditions, please see our pages on laser resurfacing or spider veins.
Before your chemical peel
During your consultation, it is very important that you discuss your expectations with your doctor, and be sure that you understand the risks and recovery time associated with your peel. If you have a history of herpes (cold sores or fever blisters), it is important that you discuss this with your doctor as well, because it may be necessary for you to take antibiotics prior to the procedure in order to avoid an outbreak.
It is also important to avoid sun exposure for two weeks before your peel. This includes going to the beach, playing golf, and anything else that would result in tanning of the skin. Any peel can cause pigment alteration (lightening or darkening), which can last from a few weeks to a few months. The likelihood of this is decreased by the use of sun avoidance and protection both before and after the peel.
During your chemical peel
The treated area will be thoroughly cleansed to remove any make-up, dirt, or oil, and the eyes and hair will be protected. Then, the chemical solution will be gently applied to the treatment area. Depending on the depth of your peel, you may feel nothing at all, or a warm to hot sensation, or a burning/tingling sensation. After the solution is removed, ice packs may be applied to soothe any burning. None of our peels require longer than 15 minutes for the actual procedure, but you should plan on being at the doctor's office for approximately 45 minutes to allow for pre and post-treatment cleansing.
After your chemical peel
The effects of a chemical peel are similar to that of a sunburn. After a mild peel, the skin may be slightly pink, and peel over the next few days. Our mild peels do not require any downtime, and you can even return to work immediately afterward, but we do recommend avoiding makeup for two days after the procedure. The deeper the peel, the harsher the "sunburn", meaning more redness and more severe peeling will occur. A deep peel can even cause some blistering and scabbing. This is normal, but it is important follow your doctor's instructions and take extremely good care of your skin during this time of healing for optimal results, and to NEVER pick at any scabs.
Because of the vulnerability of the "new" skin exposed by the peel, post-procedure sun protection is critical. We recommend a minimum of broad-spectrum SPF 30 for two weeks after a mild peel, and six weeks after a deep peel. This is also to minimize the chances of the previously mentioned pigment alteration.