Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are a highly effective skincare treatment designed to exfoliate the skin, improve texture, and address various skin concerns. By using acids such as TCA or glycolic acid, peels remove the outer layer of dead skin cells, helping you achieve a more even complexion. Our aestheticians offer chemical peels as a standalone treatment or in combination with facials and skin-rejuvenating procedures to enhance their benefits. Chemical peel solutions can be tailored to alter the treatment you receive. Light chemical peels are offered by our aesthetician with supervision by Dr. MacLennan. 

What is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a skin-resurfacing procedure that exfoliates the outer layers of the skin to promote cell turnover for more healthy skin. This treatment can help improve fine lines, acne, uneven skin tone, rough skin, hyperpigmentation, uneven texture, and sun damage while enhancing skin brightness and smoothness. Chemical peels range from mild to deep, allowing customization based on individual skin concerns and goals. Many patients notice improved skin clarity after just one session, with even more noticeable results over time.

How is a Chemical Peel Performed?

Before the chemical solution is applied, the strength and type of peel are selected based on your skin type and desired results. We carefully apply a customized chemical solution to the skin, gently dissolving dead skin cells and stimulating new cell growth. During the treatment, you may feel a tingling or warming sensation as the peel works to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. The process is quick, typically taking 30 minutes or less, and can be combined with other skincare treatments for enhanced effects.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Chemical peels are an excellent option for individuals looking to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation, and achieve a more youthful complexion. This treatment is beneficial for those with sun damage, dull skin, uneven tone, or clogged pores. While most people are good candidates, chemical peels may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions. Our skincare experts will evaluate your skin and recommend the best type of peel for your needs.

What is Recovery Like?

The recovery process for a chemical peel depends on the strength of the treatment. Light peels may cause mild redness and flaking for a few days, while deeper peels may require a longer recovery period with more peeling. Regardless of the depth, keeping the skin moisturized and protected from the sun is essential to maintain results and prevent irritation. It is recommended that you avoid sun exposure after treatment and let the skin peel naturally. After the skin eventually peels, new skin emerges, and the skin heals, revealing glowing and healthy skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I prepare for a chemical peel?

Getting your best results from a medium or deeper chemical peel requires a little prep on your part. First, schedule your peel at a time that you can avoid the sun- this means that fall and winter are peel season in New England. 4-6 weeks prior to your peel, make sure to use retinol and hydroquinone daily to prep your skin for the peel and prevent discoloration from the inflammation created by the peel. Schedule your peel at a time when you are OK with looking a little “socially unacceptable”- this can mean 3-7 days after a lighter TCA peel, or 2-3 weeks after a deeper peel. Superficial peels don’t require much prep, but we are almost always fans of retinol for anti-aging before and after.

What happens during a chemical peel?

A chemical peel involves applying an exfoliating solution (such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, TCA, or croton oil/ phenol) to remove the skin’s outer layers, creating controlled damage to uncover fresher, revitalized skin. After neutralization (if required), post-treatment care focuses on hydration, soothing products, and strict sun protection to promote recovery and maintain results.

What should I avoid after a chemical peel?

Following a chemical peel, it's crucial to avoid direct sunlight, refrain from picking or scratching peeling skin, and limit activities like strenuous exercise or sweating until the skin is healed. Also, steer clear of exfoliants, hot water, and harsh products like retinoids or acids. Instead, opt for gentle moisturizers and apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily.

Can I apply makeup immediately after a chemical peel treatment?

The timing for post-peel makeup application varies by peel intensity: mineral makeup may be safe immediately after light peels, while medium or deep peels typically require delaying 1-3 weeks. All skin is different and your timeline may vary according to how quickly your skin heals.

Are chemical peels safe for all skin tones?

While chemical peels can be adapted for various skin tones, individuals with darker skin have a higher risk of pigmentation changes with medium and deep peels. Opting for superficial formulas like glycolic or salicylic acid, prepping skin before the peel, and seeking a practitioner skilled in treating melanin-rich skin helps reduce these risks.

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