What do chemical peels do?

By inducing a controlled "wound" the skin is resurfaced and superficial layers of skin are removed revealing a healthier more vibrant top layer of skin that is much more open and receptive to skincare.

What can I expect during the treatment?

Peels have come a long way from the caustic agents used many years ago. Most peels have little to no tingling at all and some peels are actually left on the skin and washed off at home a few hours later for maximum efficacy.

How long is the recovery after a peel?

Recovery varies though typically the skin feels normal or slightly tight. Mild redness or minimal flaking is that lasts 3-5 days can occur but it is easily managed with moisturizer or post peel home care. With some deeper peels a greater degree of flaking or peeling may occur but resolves quickly with proper care.

What do I need to avoid before or after a peel?

One week prior to a peel you must avoid waxing, electrolysis, depilatories and laser hair removal.

Two to three days before the peel you must discontinue any products containing retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. The same guidelines apply to after the peel, though if there is any sign of flaking or redness the after care guidelines should continue until the skin has completely returned to normal.

How often can I have a peel?

Some peels are superficial "refresher" type peels and can be done every few weeks. The medium depth and deeper peels are best done 4-6 weeks apart so that the skin can return completely to normal and the next peel can be administered safely.