Chemical peels are a game-changing cosmetic treatment that can transform your skin and restore your youthful glow. Whether you're looking to reduce the signs of aging, improve skin texture and tone reduce the appearance of acne scars, chemical peels can help you achieve the beautiful, radiant skin you deserve.
What Are Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels are a cosmetic treatment involving the application of a solution to the skin, which causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. This process can help remove dead skin cells and other debris from the skin’s surface, improving its overall appearance and texture. They work by using a customized blend of acids and other ingredients to remove the outermost layers of skin.
Chemical peels make it possible to “peel off” signs of aging from your face, revealing new smoother skin. Since the process naturally removes dull and dead skin cells, chemical peels can soften or even eliminate fine lines, dry patches and areas of discoloration. They can also stimulate collagen production, which can help to improve skin elasticity and firmness.
Chemical Peel Benefits
Skin conditions that benefit from the effects of a chemical peel include:
- Acne
- Oily skin
- Sun damaged skin
- Skin that appears dull or lifeless
- Dry skin
- Aging skin
Different Types of Chemicals in Peels
Several chemical peels are available, each designed to target different skin concerns and varying intensity and depth. Superficial peels are the mildest option, typically using alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to gently exfoliate the outermost layers of skin. These peels are most often used to safely treat minor skin concerns such as fine lines, sun damage and uneven skin tone. We offer these at California Vein Specialists.
Medium-depth peels are more intense than superficial peels, using trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to penetrate deeper into the skin and treat more significant concerns such as severe acne scarring and much deeper wrinkles. Deep peels are the most intense chemical peel, using phenol to penetrate the skin and treat severe sun damage and the deepest wrinkles and scars. These types of peels are typically only recommended for patients with fair skin, can require a much longer recovery time and have higher risks of creating new damage.
What are AHAs?
Malic acid and lactic acid are alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) commonly used in skin care products and chemical peels. They are derived from natural sources, such as fruits and milk, and are known for their ability to improve skin texture and tone. Both malic acid and lactic acid are excellent choices for individuals seeking to improve their skin’s texture and tone. They are gentle enough to be used on most skin types and can help to reveal smoother, brighter, more radiant skin.
Malic acid is found in fruits such as apples and pears. It’s been shown to exfoliate the skin by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and revealing smoother, brighter skin. In addition to its exfoliating properties, malic acid has antioxidant properties, which will protect the skin from possible future damage caused by free radicals.
Lactic acid is derived from cow’s milk and is known for its ability to gently exfoliate the skin, which is what makes it an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive skin. Lactic acid helps to break down the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and revealing smoother, more radiant skin. In addition to its exfoliating properties, lactic acid also has humectant properties, which attract and retains moisture in the skin, making it an excellent choice for individuals with dry skin.
Available at Our Medspa
The California Vein Specialist Medspa uses only the safest and most effective ingredients in our chemical peels. We’re committed to providing each client with the highest level of care and attention. We believe everyone should feel confident and beautiful in their skin, and we’re here to help you achieve your desired look.
Epionce Lite Peel: Refresh (pH 2.9)
This gentle chemical peel is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin (on the Fitzpatrick scale types I-VI). Often referred to as the perfect “lunchtime” peel, it effectively addresses skin congestion, dullness, and sallowness, while improving acne without any downtime.
The peel is formulated with malic acid and salicylic acid, which work together to promote cell turnover and improve skin clarity. With repeated treatments, it helps to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier response and address signs of aging, as well as overall skin dullness. If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to achieve smoother, clearer, and more radiant skin, this gentle chemical peel may be the perfect solution for you.
How Does the Chemical Peel Process Work?
Chemical peels rejuvenate your skin and improve its overall appearance. They work by removing the top layers of skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin texture and tone and even helping reduce acne and scarring.
Step 1: Consultation
Before undergoing a chemical peel, you will meet with our Aesthetic Nurse to discuss your skin concerns and goals. During your detailed consultation, your skin type is evaluated, and if we determine that our Epionce Lite chemical peel is right for your goals, we will discuss and implement your treatment plan.
Step 2: Skin Preparation
Before the chemical peel is applied, your skin will be thoroughly cleansed and prepped with a solution that removes any oil and debris on the skin. This helps to ensure that the chemical peel is evenly applied and penetrates the skin properly.
Step 3: Chemical Peel Application
The chemical peel solution will then be applied to the skin using a brush or cotton applicator. Depending on your skin type and skin care goals, the chemicals will be left on for a predetermined amount of time. During this time, the solution works to dissolve the bonds between the skin cells, causing them to eventually slough off and reveal smoother, fresher skin underneath.
Step 4: Neutralization
After the predetermined time has elapsed, the chemical peel will be neutralized with a unique solution. This stops the chemical reaction and helps prevent further penetration into the skin.
Step 5: Post-Treatment Care
After the chemical peel has been neutralized, your skin will be cleansed, and a soothing moisturizer or cream will be applied to help soothe and hydrate the skin. Before you leave, we’ll provide specific aftercare instructions, such as avoiding wearing sunscreen and avoiding direct sun exposure, to help maximize the results of your treatment.
Step 6: Follow-Up Appointments
Depending on your individual needs and concerns, your skincare professional may recommend follow-up appointments to ensure optimal results. These appointments may include additional chemical peel treatments or other cosmetic treatments to help maintain the health and appearance of your skin.
What Will You Feel During the Chemical Peel Procedure?
Your comfort is one of our goals with any treatments you undergo with our team. Before a chemical peel procedure, we will thoroughly cleanse your skin and may apply a topical numbing cream to help reduce any discomfort you could feel during the procedure if you have sensitive skin. Next, our Nurse will apply the chemical solution to your skin, starting with the most sensitive areas first and working outwards.
During the procedure, you may feel a tingling or slight burning sensation, which is completely normal and should subside relatively quickly. After the chemical solution has been processed and neutralized, you will no longer feel the effects but may notice a light redness or irritation for a day or two. Using the proper aftercare will help keep your skin feeling great.
Who Is a Good Candidate For a Chemical Peel?
Because of the overall cleansing effect that chemical peels provide, nearly everyone can benefit from a chemical peel procedure. Individuals affected by ongoing skin problems and concerns stand to see considerable improvements. While chemical peels are generally safe and effective for most individuals, discussing any underlying health conditions or circumstances with a qualified skincare professional before the procedure is essential.
Individuals with certain skin conditions may not be good candidates for chemical peels, such as eczema or rosacea, as they can exacerbate these conditions. Similarly, individuals with a history of keloids or abnormal scarring may not be good candidates for deeper chemical peels, as they can increase the risk of scarring.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid chemical peels, as the effects of the chemicals used in the peel on the fetus or infant are not well understood yet. Individuals currently taking certain medications, such as isotretinoin for acne or oral steroids, may also not be good candidates for chemical peels.
What Treatments Can Be Combined with Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels can be combined with a variety of other aesthetic treatments that we offer to enhance their overall effectiveness and provide optimal results. In general, waiting a certain amount of time between treatments is important to allow the skin to heal properly, which we can plan for at your in-depth consultation.
Some options may include:
Botox® and Dermal Fillers
Injectable treatments can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and restore lost volume to the face. Botox and dermal fillers such as Juvéderm XC and Voluma can be used in conjunction with a chemical peel to provide more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Microneedling
Combining these two treatments can help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote collagen and elastin production. Microneedling can be performed before a chemical peel to prepare the skin and improve the penetration of the chemical peel solution. Or, microneedling can be performed after a chemical peel to enhance the skin’s healing process and stimulate collagen and elastin production.
Morpheus 8
Combining Morpheus 8 with chemical peels may help to enhance the overall results and significantly improve skin tone and texture for some individuals. It involves the use of small needles that deliver radiofrequency energy to the deeper layers of the skin, creating micro-injuries that stimulate the body’s natural healing response. Although combining these two treatments may not be suitable for everyone since there may be some contraindications or risks to consider.
Call Us to Schedule a Consultation
Chemical peels for the face will improve your overall appearance and skin health. At our California Vein Specialists in Newport Beach, we are committed to providing you with the highest level of care and attention to each client. And we’re determined to produce the results you desire while also working to ensure your treatments are comfortable and safe.
Along with Epionce Lite chemical peels, we offer many other treatments that can refresh and rejuvenate your skin’s appearance. Call us today at 949-339-1032 or click here to schedule your personalized consultation and learn more about treatment options to help you reach your aesthetic goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after a chemical peel?
After a chemical peel, following our instructions carefully ensures that your skin heals properly. This may include avoiding sun exposure, applying a gentle moisturizer to the skin, and avoiding any harsh or abrasive products. You may also experience some redness, peeling, and irritation in the days following the procedure. This is normal and typically subsides within a few days. It’s important to avoid picking at or scratching the skin during this time, as this can increase the risk of infection and scarring.
What are the risks of chemical peels?
Although generally safe, chemical peels carry some risks, such as redness, irritation, sensitivity to sunlight, infection, scarring, and changes in skin color, especially with deeper peels. By taking the proper precautions and following all aftercare instructions, you can minimize your risk of complications and enjoy the many benefits of this popular cosmetic treatment.
Can I do at-home chemical peels?
Chemical peels should only be performed by a qualified skincare professional who has experience with the procedure. Individuals unfamiliar with the process or attempting to perform a chemical peel at home run the risk of serious injury, scarring, or other complications.
How long does a chemical peel take?
The length of a chemical peel treatment can vary depending on the peel’s type and depth. Generally, most chemical peels take between 30-60 minutes to complete.
Is a chemical peel painful?
While some individuals may experience mild discomfort or sting during a chemical peel, the procedure is generally not considered to be painful. Your skincare professional can provide numbing cream or other options to minimize any discomfort during the treatment.
What is the recovery process like after a chemical peel?
The recovery process after a chemical peel can vary depending on a few factors. Generally, individuals can expect some redness and irritation in the days following the treatment. Be sure to follow all aftercare instructions provided by your skincare professional to minimize the risk of complications and ensure optimal results.
How often should I get chemical peels?
The frequency of chemical peels will depend on your individual skin type and concerns. Generally, individuals can benefit from getting a chemical peel every 4-6 weeks to maintain the treatment results.
Can I wear makeup after treatment?
It is generally recommended that individuals avoid wearing makeup for at least 24 hours after a chemical peel to allow the skin to heal fully. Your skincare professional can provide more specific aftercare instructions based on the peel type.
How long will the results of my chemical peel last?
The length of time that the results of a chemical peel last can vary. Typically, individuals can expect the results of a chemical peel to last for several weeks to several months.
Is a chemical peel ok for darker skin tones?
While chemical peels can be effective for individuals with all skin types and tones, darker skin may be more prone to hyperpigmentation or other complications. Discussing your skin type and concerns at your consultation before the procedure is an essential step.
Can chemical peels be performed on other parts of the body besides the face?
Yes, chemical peels can be performed on other parts of the body besides the face, such as the neck, chest, and hands. We can help you determine the best treatment plan based on your individual needs and concerns during your consultation.
*Individual results may vary.
*Providing you with accurate medical information is one of our priorities. To ensure this, Dr. Leary reviews all the information posted on our website. Please get in touch with us today if you would like more information about any of the conditions we treat and the procedures we offer.
