Chemical Peel

Understanding Chemical Peels

What is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel involves applying a chemical solution to the skin that causes controlled damage to the outer layers. As the damaged skin peels away over several days to weeks, new skin regenerates with improved texture, tone, and appearance. The depth of the peel determines both the intensity of results and the recovery time required.

Chemical peels have been used for decades to improve skin appearance and are among the most popular non-invasive cosmetic treatments. They work by accelerating the skin's natural exfoliation process and stimulating cellular turnover and collagen production.

Types of Chemical Peels

Superficial Peels (Light Peels):

Use mild acids like alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) or beta-hydroxy acid (BHA)
Penetrate only the outermost layer of skin (epidermis)
Minimal downtime, can return to normal activities immediately
Subtle results, require multiple treatments for optimal improvement
Best for fine lines, mild discoloration, rough texture, and acne

Medium Peels:

Use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or glycolic acid at higher concentrations
Penetrate the epidermis and upper dermis
3-7 days of visible peeling and redness
More dramatic improvement than superficial peels
Address age spots, moderate wrinkles, uneven tone, and acne scars

Deep Peels:

Use phenol or high-concentration TCA
Penetrate deeply into the dermis
Significant downtime of 2-3 weeks
Dramatic, long-lasting results
Best for deep wrinkles, severe sun damage, and precancerous lesions
Typically performed only once

Skin Concerns Treated

Fine lines and wrinkles
Sun damage and age spots
Melasma and hyperpigmentation
Acne and acne scarring
Rough skin texture
Uneven skin tone
Enlarged pores
Dull, tired-looking skin
Mild skin laxity

Treatment Areas

Face (full or targeted areas)
Neck
Chest and décolletage
Hands
Back (for acne)

The Treatment Process

Pre-Treatment Preparation:

Skin conditioning with retinoids or AHAs for 2-4 weeks before medium or deep peels
Discontinuation of certain medications or supplements
Avoidance of waxing, depilatory creams, or exfoliating treatments
Sun protection and avoidance of tanning

During Treatment:

Skin is thoroughly cleansed and degreased
Chemical solution is carefully applied to treatment areas
You may feel tingling, warmth, or mild burning sensations
Solution is left on for specific time depending on peel type and depth
Solution is neutralized or removed
Soothing ointments or cool compresses are applied
Treatment typically takes 30-90 minutes

Recovery by Peel Type

Superficial Peel: Mild redness for a few hours, possible light flaking for 3-5 days, makeup can be worn next day, return to normal activities immediately

Medium Peel: Moderate redness and swelling for 2-3 days, visible peeling for 5-7 days, return to work in about one week, avoid sun exposure for several weeks

Deep Peel: Significant swelling and redness for 1-2 weeks, crusting and peeling for 2-3 weeks, pink skin for several months, requires 2-3 weeks off work

Results & Longevity

Superficial Peels: Subtle brightening and smoothing visible after one treatment, optimal results after series of 3-6 peels, results last 1-2 months, maintenance peels recommended every 4-6 weeks

Medium Peels: Noticeable improvement in tone and texture after one treatment, final results visible after 1-2 months, results last 6-12 months, can be repeated as needed

Deep Peels: Dramatic improvement visible once healing is complete, results can last 5-10 years or longer, typically performed only once

Ideal Candidates

Light to medium skin tones (some peels suitable for all skin types)
Realistic expectations about results
Good overall health
No active skin infections or open wounds
Not pregnant or breastfeeding
No recent Accutane use (wait 6-12 months)
Commitment to sun protection post-treatment

Benefits

Dramatic improvement in skin appearance
Non-invasive treatment
Customizable depth and intensity
Addresses multiple concerns simultaneously
Stimulates natural skin renewal
Long-lasting results (especially deep peels)
Can be combined with other treatments

Post-Peel Care

Gentle Cleansing: Use mild, non-irritating cleansers as directed
Moisturize: Keep skin well-hydrated with recommended products
Sun Protection: Critical - use SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, avoid direct sun exposure
No Picking: Allow skin to peel naturally, do not pick or pull flaking skin
Avoid Irritants: No harsh products, retinoids, or acids until cleared by Dr. Kim
Skip Makeup: Avoid makeup for specified period (varies by peel depth)
Stay Cool: Avoid hot showers, saunas, and excessive sweating during healing

Potential Risks & Side Effects

While chemical peels are generally safe when performed by experienced professionals, potential risks include:

Temporary redness, swelling, and sensitivity (expected and normal)
Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation (more common in darker skin tones)
Infection (rare with proper aftercare)
Scarring (very rare, more risk with deep peels)
Prolonged redness (possible with medium and deep peels)
Reactivation of cold sores (preventive medication available)

Dr. Kim carefully evaluates your skin type and medical history to minimize these risks and ensure safe, effective treatment.

Combination Treatments

Chemical peels can be effectively combined with other treatments for enhanced results:

Microneedling: Performed at separate sessions to address texture and scarring

Laser Treatments: Staged appropriately for comprehensive skin rejuvenation

Injectable Treatments: Botox and fillers can be performed before or after (timing varies)

Medical-Grade Skincare: Retinoids and other products enhance and maintain results

Choosing the Right Peel

During your consultation, Dr. Kim will evaluate your skin type, concerns, lifestyle, and goals to recommend the most appropriate peel depth and formulation. Factors considered include:

Severity of skin concerns
Skin type and tone (darker skin requires special consideration)
Tolerance for downtime
Previous treatments and skin sensitivity
Sun exposure habits
Budget and maintenance commitment