FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS A CHEMICAL PEEL?
A chemical peel is a skin treatment designed to improve and smooth out the surface of your facial skin. It comprehends applying a chemical solution to remove top layers of skin, which allows the dead surface skin to peel off. This process leads to new skin growth, with a smoother, healthier and less wrinkled appearance. Chemical peels ought to be performed only by aesthetic professionals, such as aesthetic doctors, nurses and beauty therapists.
*Results can vary based on individual conditions
HOW ARE CHEMICAL PEELS PERFORMED?
During the treatment your eyes and hair will be protected, so your skin can be thoroughly cleansed with an agent that removes excess oils. After that, one or more chemical solutions will be applied. They can either be glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or even carbolic acid (phenol), depending on your individual needs. All these chemical solutions will produce a form of controlled wound, enabling new and refreshed skin to appear later on. As the solution is applied, you can expect to experience a warm to hot sensation which lasts around 10 minutes.
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR CHEMICAL PEELS?
You may benefit from peels if you suffer from acne, congestion, blackheads, sun damage and even fine lines. Regarding acne, the lactic acid helps unblock pores, reduce inflamed skin and remove trapped oil and dead cells. As for superficial pigmentation and sunspots, the alpha-hydroxy acid helps to lift surface cells which hold the uneven skin tones.
IS IT PAINFUL TO GET A CHEMICAL PEEL?
You can expect to feel a tingling or slightly stinging feeling during the application of the solution, but it shouldn’t be too painful. After the skin “peels off” or exfoliates, you may also experience some slight reddening and irritation as the new skin layer of cells form. Only on rare occasions patients experience swelling or infection. You should always inform your clinician about medications you may be taking as some can react with the chemical peel solution.
IS THERE ANY PREPARATION BEFORE A CHEMICAL PEEL?
You shouldn’t wax, use any depilatory creams or have any laser treatments performed at least one week prior to your chemical peel. You should also stop using topical prescriptions, Retin-A, Tazorac, BHA’s & AHA’s and benzoyl peroxide 2-3 days before your treatment. And any additional facial treatments including laser, fillers or surgery should be resolved (and healed) before having a chemical peel.
HOW IS THE AFTERCARE AFTER A CHEMICAL PEEL?
Keep in mind that you may be more sensitive to sun exposure after a chemical peel. So don’t forget to take extra precautions and always apply sunscreen with SPF 20 or higher. You should limit sun exposure for at least a couple weeks after your peel. And, since intense perspiration may irritate the skin, avoid any strenuous exercise for 2-3 days. During your skincare routine, do not scrub your face, only gently cleanse. Finally, don’t forget that you can always control the peeling with a light moisturizer, so avoid the temptation of “helping the skin to peel”.
WHERE CAN I GET A CHEMICAL PEEL IN NEW JERSEY?
Clinical Peels are an important element of skin care, as they improve and smooth the texture of your facial skin. At StudioMD we encourage people to make the best choices leading to healthier lifestyles and improved self esteem. So if you are ready to rejuvenate your skin with a chemical peel, book an appointment at one of our clinics today, and let’s work together towards your goals.