Restore Your Smooth Skin Texture
A chemical peel is a versatile skin-resurfacing treatment that can address a range of skin concerns, from acne scars and hyperpigmentation to fine lines and uneven texture. This procedure involves applying a chemical solution to the skin, which causes controlled exfoliation and peeling of the outer layers. As the skin heals, a smoother, clearer, and more youthful complexion emerges. At Pacific Derm in Vancouver, our team tailors each peel to meet the unique needs of our patients, ensuring optimal results with minimal downtime.
Treatment Benefits
Enhances Skin Radiance
Post-treatment, skin appears brighter and more youthful due to the removal of dull, dead skin cells. The new skin that emerges is typically more vibrant and healthy-looking.
Evens Skin Tone
Chemical peels can lighten dark spots, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more even and uniform skin tone. This is especially beneficial for individuals with melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Treats Acne and Scars
Chemical peels help to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and diminish the appearance of acne scars. This treatment is beneficial for both active acne and residual scarring.
Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles
By stimulating collagen production and removing damaged outer layers, chemical peels can significantly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, particularly around the eyes and mouth.
Smooths Skin Texture
Chemical peels effectively exfoliate the skin, removing rough, dead skin cells and promoting a smoother, softer surface. This can make makeup application easier and enhance the overall appearance of your skin.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a dermatological procedure that involves applying a chemical solution to the skin, causing the top layers to peel off. This controlled damage prompts the body to produce new skin cells, resulting in fresher, smoother skin. Chemical peels vary in strength and can be customized to address specific skin concerns.
How Does a Chemical Peel Work?
During a chemical peel, a solution containing acids such as glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or salicylic acid is applied to the skin. These acids break down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed more easily. The depth of the peel and the type of acid used will depend on the patient’s skin type and the specific issues being addressed. The procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Cleansing: The skin is thoroughly cleansed to remove oil and impurities.
- Application: The chemical solution is carefully applied to the skin.
- Neutralization: Depending on the type of peel, the solution may be neutralized after a specific period.
- Post-Care: A soothing agent is applied to the skin, and patients are given post-care instructions. Tip: resist the urge to pick at your skin!
Types of Chemical Peels
Superficial Peels
Superficial peels, sometimes known as lunchtime peels, use moderate acids such as alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) to gently exfoliate the skin’s surface layer. These peels are good for removing minor skin flaws like fine wrinkles, dullness, and discolouration. They need little downtime, and patients can usually resume their routine activities shortly following treatment.
Medium Peels
Medium peels penetrate deeper into the skin using trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or glycolic acid. These peels are effective for treating more pronounced wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. Recovery time for medium peels is typically about a week, during which patients may experience redness, swelling, and peeling.
Deep Peels
Deep peels use strong acids like phenol to penetrate several layers of skin. They offer dramatic results for severe skin imperfections, such as deep wrinkles, extensive sun damage, and pronounced scars. However, deep peels require a longer recovery period, and patients may need to take time off work and avoid sun exposure during the healing process.
Before and After a Chemical Peel
Chemical peels at Pacific Derm provide a range of benefits, making them a popular choice for those looking to enhance their skin’s appearance without invasive procedures. Patients often notice significant improvements in skin texture, tone, and clarity. Benefits include smoother skin, reduced fine lines and wrinkles, diminished acne scars, and a more even skin tone. These improvements result in a fresher, more youthful, and vibrant look.
Treatment areas
Face
Chemical peels are highly effective for treating facial skin concerns such as acne, scars, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. They rejuvenate the face's overall appearance, promoting a youthful and vibrant complexion.
- Before and After a Chemical Peel
Frequently asked questions about Chemical Peels
How to prepare for a chemical peel?
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Preparation involves a consultation to assess your skin type and concerns, discontinuing certain skincare products (such as retinoids) about a week before the procedure, and avoiding sun exposure to minimize the risk of complications.
Are there any risks?
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While chemical peels are generally safe, potential risks include redness, scarring, infection, and changes in skin colour. These risks can be minimized by following pre- and post-treatment care instructions and ensuring the procedure is performed by a qualified professional.
What is the recovery time?
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Recovery time varies by peel type: superficial peels typically take a few days, medium peels about a week, and deep peels can take several weeks. Following aftercare instructions to promote healing and protect the new skin is a must during the recovery period.
How much does a chemical peel cost?
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Costs vary depending on the type of peel and your specific needs. During your consultation, our team will provide a detailed cost estimate based on your personalized treatment plan.
How many sessions will I need to complete the treatment?
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The number of sessions needed depends on the severity of the skin issue and the type of peel. Some see significant results after one session, while others may require multiple treatments spaced several weeks apart to achieve their desired outcomes.
Is a chemical peel for all skin types?
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Chemical peels can be customized for different skin types and concerns. However, a consultation is necessary to determine suitability.
How long does it take?
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The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the depth of the peel and the areas being treated.
How long does it last?
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Results can last from several months to years, depending on the type of peel and your skincare routine. Regular maintenance treatments and a consistent skincare regimen can prolong the benefits of a chemical peel.
Are there immediate results after a chemical peel?
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Results are usually visible once the peeling process is complete, revealing smoother and more radiant skin. Immediate skin texture and tone improvement can be observed, with continued improvement over several weeks as new collagen forms.
Will I be red after a chemical peel?
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Redness is common after a peel and can last from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the depth of the peel. Superficial peels typically result in minimal redness, while medium and deep peels may cause more prolonged redness and swelling.