How Deep Chemical Peels Are a Time Machine for Your Face

How Deep Chemical Peels Are a Time Machine for Your Face

Looking to turn back time on your skin? Look no further: One of the most effective non-surgical anti-defying treatments is a deep chemical peel. But what exactly is it, and how does it work so well? Let’s take a look!

What is a Deep Chemical Peel?

Deep chemical peels are advanced skin resurfacing procedures that target the deeper layers of your skin. Unlike superficial or medium chemical peels, deep peels penetrate the dermis to stimulate a profound regeneration process. This makes this type of peel ideal for addressing more challenging skin issues such as deep wrinkles, severe sun damage, brown spots and loose skin. Deep peels can change the “fabric” of your skin, tightening and improving wrinkles and texture in ways that few other treatments can.

Why Choose a Deep Chemical Peel?

It’s all about the results. Deep chemical peels are renowned for their potential to dramatically enhance the skin’s texture and appearance. By promoting the removal of dead skin cells, encouraging new cell growth, and boosting collagen and elastin production, these peels can deliver a clearer, smoother, and more youthful complexion. It’s why they’re often described as a facial time machine!

Your Expert Guide to Skin Rejuvenation

At Mountain Lake Plastic Surgery, our patients benefit from the skilled hands of our licensed esthetician under the expert guidance of Dr. Susan MacLennan. With 25 years of experience in skin rejuvenation and fellowship training with some of the earliest plastic surgeons to use deeper peels, Dr. MacLennan tailors each deep peel to meet the specific needs of every patient, ensuring optimal results while still prioritizing safety and comfort. By choosing Mountain Lake Plastic Surgery, you’re choosing excellence and experience in skin care.

How Do Deep Chemical Peels Work?

The process begins with a thorough consultation to assess your skin’s unique needs. The first step is preparation of your skin for 4-6 weeks before the peel is done. This consists of treatment with retinol to increase skin cell turnover and hydroquinone to downregulate the pigment-producing cells in the skin. During the procedure, a chemical solution such as phenol/croton oil mixture or trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is applied to your skin. The solution will penetrate the deep layers of the skin and break down old and damaged cells. Over the following days and weeks after your treatment, your skin will naturally peel, revealing a fresher, more radiant skin appearance beneath. The procedure is done with topical or local anesthesia for small areas such as the eyelids or around the mouth. When treating the full face, cardiac monitoring may be required for phenol peels so this type of full-face peel is typically done in the operating room.

Deep Chemical Peel Recovery

Patients always have questions about the recovery process. It’s true that deep chemical peels require more downtime compared to their superficial light and medium chemical peel counterparts. Typically, patients experience peeling and redness on the treated skin for one to two weeks. Under our care, you’ll have clear post-treatment instructions and follow-up appointments to ensure a smooth recovery. Our experienced aesthetician will also help with post-peel care. It’s imperative to avoid sun exposure entirely for first few weeks, and to wear a high quality sunscreen at all times once the skin is healed. Depending upon the area and depth of the peel, some patients may have redness/ pinkness for 3-6 months after the peel, especially after exercising or getting hot. This type of peel requires a real commitment due to the downtime, but the results can be amazing.

Is there a Good Time of Year for Peels?

Fall/ winter is peel season in New England! Nobody wants to miss our short summer, so start your retinol and hydroquinone pre-peel regimen after summer’s rays have faded, and let your skin recover from your peel in the gray months! In 2024, Dr. MacLennan had a peel in late November -she was a little dry and red for the holidays but had glowing, rejuvenated skin by winter.

Is a Deep Peel Right for You?

If you’re dealing with advanced signs of aging or deep skin imperfections and have already tried other rejuvenation methods, deep chemical peels could be your answer. Interested in discovering whether this procedure is right for you? Schedule a consultation today!

We typically recommend patients be in generally good health, not have any active skin infections (like cold sores), have realistic expectations, and be nonsmokers. You must also be willing to stick to a quality skincare regimen to maintain your results.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

During your visit to Mountain Lake Plastic Surgery, Dr. MacLennan and our aesthetician will evaluate your skin type, discuss your aesthetic goals, and outline a treatment plan that best suits your needs. We are committed to ensuring you leave us feeling informed, comfortable, and excited for your renewed skin journey.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Eager to turn back time and embrace a revitalized you? Call our Burlington, VT office at (802) 231-4284 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your personalized consultation today. Let’s embark on this skin-rejuvenating journey together!