Chemical Peels

What are chemical peels?

Chemical peels are blends of acids that help the skin quickly shed its outer layers. By removing the outer layers we encourage the growth of new, healthy skin cells. Depending on what you are hoping to target, your provider will select a peel containing acids to give you the best results.

The peels that we use are the VI Peels, the beauty of these peels is that they are suitable for all skin colors. For a long time darker skin such as Asian and black skin has had an increased risk of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation associated with peels but with VI Peels we can treat the darkest of skin without the risk of additional damage. These peels contain specific ingredients to safely treat all skin tones using a targeted blend of acids to inhibit the over production of melanin in response to trauma.

Chemical peels can treat a variety of skin conditions revealing radiant skin. The peel itself is very quick and can be added on to many treatments including injectables, coolsculpting, and most skincare services. Most people are great candidates for peels even if they have sensitized skin. Pregnancy and breastfeeding as well as allergies and some medical conditions may prevent you from being a candidate. Here are a few things we can target with peels:

• Active acne
• Active acne
• PIH (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation) and PIE (post inflammatory erythema). These are the red or brown spots left after a breakout or other trauma.
• Melasma
• Sun damage
• Rough skin texture

Chemical peels are best when performed in a series of 3 spread 4 weeks apart. If you have melasma, you should continue to get regular peels to keep it under control. If you have active acne, consider checking out our Acne Bootcamp. Chemical peels can also be performed on the face and body! If you have any of the above skin concerns on the body, we can treat that. The most we can do in one visit is two areas at once.

What happens during a chemical peel?

Your skin will be cleansed and then prepped with a solution that bring the ph of your skin to around a 1. This step is super important for best results. After your skin is prepped, the peel solution is applied in 3-4 layers. Between each layer the solution dries for about a minute. Once the final layer is applied you are free to go. You will be sent home with an aftercare kit and specific instructions.

Once you leave the office, you will leave the solution on for 4 hours before rinsing it off and applying a treatment towelette. These towelettes contain retinoid acid which elevated your peel results. You will then rinse again and follow with the provided moisturizer. You will repeat this process at bed time the night of your treatment and the following night. During the day you will cleanse with the included cleanser and apply an anti-itch cream and SPF 50 daily.

What should I expect after the procedure?

After your chemical peel your skin will feel tight and shiny for around 2 day before you start to peel. When you start peeling it usually begins around the mouth with the forehead peeling last. You should expect around week of peeling where you are super gentle with your skin and very careful about sun exposure. You will use the provided aftercare and follow the aftercare instructions for a week before returning to gentle skincare.

When we say you will peel, we mean it! Don’t be shocked if you see big sheets of skin coming off. Do NOT pick or scrub at the skin coming off or you could cause scarring. You should allow it to flake off naturally but if it is getting in your way you can trim off the excess dried skin with nail scissors that have be cleaned with an alcohol wipe. Failure to follow your post-care instructions using the provided post-care products can result in unintended complications including pigmentation and scarring.