What is a Chemical Peel Procedure?
A chemical peel is a non invasive skin rejuvenation procedure that removes the top layers of skin to promote new cell growth. There are different types of chemicals that determine the depth of your peel and type of skin condition treated. Chemical peels can help improve a variety of skin conditions, including acne scars, aging skin, fine lines and dark spots. Anyone looking to improve the overall appearance of their skin is a potential candidate for this noninvasive treatment.
How do you prepare for a Chemical Peel?
Ahead of your chemical peel or chemical face peel, you will be given pre-treatment instructions that include:
- Not exfoliating for at least 1 week before the appointment to minimize any damage to the skin.
- Taking a break from wearing makeup for a few days before treatment and letting the skin “detox.”
- Avoiding the sun and wearing strong sunblock (at least SPF 30) when going outside.
- Staying hydrated and avoiding any products that can dry the skin.
Why is a Chemical Peel Procedure performed?
Chemical peels are available in various strengths to tailor to individual needs. Professionally done chemical peels administered by Viva Eve’s expert skincare specialists have many benefits:
- Improved skin texture, color, tone, and clarity
- Reduced skin discoloration caused by sun damage, skin imperfections, and superficial scars
- Increased skin hydration and more radiant complexion
- Daily moisturizers and serums can penetrate deeper into the skin and become more effective
PCOS patients may seek a chemical peel for acne to address hormonal acne and hyperpigmentation, whereas a postpartum patient might seek a chemical peel to address stretch marks and dark spots. Chemical peels are not always chemical face peels, and can treat all parts of the body.
The effectiveness of any chemical peel depends on whether or not it’s a good match for the patient’s skin. Viva Eve’s skincare specialists always have an in-depth pre-procedure discussion about each patient’s skin type, skincare habits, and other relevant medical information so that they can help them select the right peel.
What can you expect during a Chemical Peel Procedure?
Peels come in three different strengths: light, medium, and deep. The recovery time depends on the type of peel.
- Light peels are the easiest on the skin and have shorter recovery time.
- Medium peels remove the outermost layer and the upper part of the middle skin layer. Patients who opt for a medium peel should expect that it will be a few weeks before their skin looks normal.
- A deep chemical peel is a one-time only treatment if applied to the face and does have significant down time.
In most cases chemical peels are performed using just a mild topical anesthetic. The skin is thoroughly cleansed and dried and eyes, nose, and mouth are covered.
The peel itself involves applying a chemical solution to the skin and allowing it to penetrate. Some mild stinging and burning sensation is expected during this non invasive skin rejuvenation procedure and our skincare experts always ensure that our patients are as comfortable as possible.
After the designated time a neutralizing agent is applied to the treatment area or the solution is removed from the skin.
What is the followup and recovery like for a Chemical Peel Procedure?
When the peel is administered by a professional and the right chemical peel solution for the patient’s skin type is used, patients see impressive results with minimal discomfort and downtime. This is the approximate timeline for your recovery after certain light and medium chemical peels at Viva Eve:
- First few hours – some redness, tingling, or burning
- First few days –some dryness, irritation, and mild swelling
- 2-3 days –skin may look flaky or peel, and discolorations or imperfections may temporarily be more noticeable
- 3-4 days – a breakout is possible or skin may look slightly darker than usual
- 5-7 days – side effects start to subside, and skin begins to look and feel “normal”
- 7-14 days – the formation of healthy, new skin
- Up to 30 days – some redness or skin that is darker or lighter than usual
We advise patients to avoid makeup for the first 1-2 weeks after a chemical peel. Chemicals and other substances in cosmetics can possibly irritate the skin and prolong the healing process.
Our skincare specialists make sure to remind our patients that the new skin is fragile and is more susceptible to irritation. Patients are provided with detailed post-treatment instructions to reduce the chance of developing complications and to make sure that their recovery is fast and uneventful.
What are the potential costs for a Chemical Peel Procedure?
Chemical peels are an elective cosmetic treasure which is generally not covered by most insurance plans.There may be some specific exceptions that are considered medically necessary and may be partially/fully covered.
What are the potential risks for a Chemical Peel Procedure?
You should understand that all chemical peels carry some risks and uncertainties. Viva Eve skincare experts do not recommend peels to patients who:
- Have a history of abnormal skin scarring.
- Have extra coloring in their scars.
- Have skin conditions or take medications that make their skin more sensitive.
- Are unable to stay out of the sun for the healing period.
- Are pregnant.
Are there related procedures to a procedure?
Chemical peels can be done alone or combined with other cosmetic procedures such as neuromodulator treatment, dermal fillers, or microneedling. Our featured services include:
- Skin smoothing and rejuvenating injectables: Neuromodulator and Filler
- Cosmetic skin improving treatments: Microneedling and Chemical Peels, including Chemical Peels for Acne
- Custom Skincare Plans: PCOS, Acne, Prenatal, Postpartum, and more
To book a complimentary consultation, call 212-988-2111.