Chemical Peels and Facials
Looking to revitalize your skin? We offer several different non-surgical options that can be performed on their own or in conjunction with facial rejuvenation surgery to optimize results! Jo Halliday-Kinal, our esthetician, will help discuss your skincare goals and plans of treatment.
To learn more about the special types of facials and peels that we offer, please browse the links below:
Chemical Peels
Facials
Frequently Asked Questions About Peels and Facials
What is a chemical peel? What is a facial treatment?
A chemical peel is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin on the face. During a chemical peel, a mild chemical solution is administered to the skin for a short period of time. The chemical solution causes causes exfoliation and peeling, which in turn leads to skin turnover and rejuvenation. Once it heals, the new, regenerated skin is smoother and less wrinkled and looks fresher and younger!
In general, there are three types of chemical peels according to the depth of treatment:
- Superficial peel: In a superficial chemical peel, a mild acid is used and only penetrates the outer layer of the skin, which leads to a gentle exfoliation. Superficial peels are best used to treat mild skin discoloration and to smooth rougher skin. We offer the Illuminize peel by Skinmedica® for patients in Los Angeles, which is a superficial peel.
- Medium peel: In a medium chemical peel, a stronger acid is administered to penetrate the outer and middle layers of skin. This helps to remove damaged skin cells at a deeper level. A medium peel, like our Vitalize peel, is used to improve age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, freckles and moderate skin discoloration.
- Deep peel: In a deep chemical peel, a stronger acid is administered to deeply penetrate the middle layer of skin to remove damanged skin cells. A deep peel, such as our Rejuvenize peel, removes moderate lines, age spots, freckles and shallow scars.
A Facial is a procedure involving a variety of skin treatments, including: steam, exfoliation, creams, lotions, soaps, facial masks, peels and massage. Facials can be used for general maintenance of healthy skin, as well as for specific skin conditions, such as acne, aging and sensitive skin.
Who is and is not a candidate for a chemical peel?
A chemical peel can be used to treat a number of conditions, including: acne scars, aging skin, crow’s feet, sun damaged skin, sagging skin, wrinkles, brown spots and freckles. A mild chemical peel, like our Vitalize Peel, are also great for a quick brightening of your skin.
Generally fair skinned people are the best candidates for a chemical peel. The procedure does not work as well on darker-skinned patients. Peels are not recommended for patients with infections, active skin disease, cut or broken skin, sunburns or active Herpes simplex 1 sores. Other counter-indications include patients who are: pregnant or nursing, have taken Accutane in the last six months, have skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema, have used Retinol products, prescription skin care products, or acid-based products in the last 48 hours.
Do chemical peels hurt? What should I expect after a chemical peel?
Chemical peels sting slightly, but in general they do not hurt. The most superficial peels may cause stinging, temporary redness and irritation. The medium and deep peels may sting slightly more, and can cause more redness, swelling and irritation as the skin begins to heal.
All peels require some healing time. The aesthetician will immediately apply sunscreen after administering the peel, because your skin will be sun-sensitive following a peel. You should continue to apply a sunscreen that is approved for use after a peel, like our Skinmedica® Daily Physical Defense, every day after a peel. Mild peels require one to seven days to heal, but results can usually be seen hours later. The skin may initially be red, but makeup can usually be worn the next day. Medium peels require seven to 10 days to heal. The skin will be red and swollen for the first 48 hours, and peeling will occur for up to seven days. Makeup may be worn after the first few days. Deep peels require seven to 18 days to heal, with peeling occurring for up to fourteen days.