Like Dermabrasion, Chemical Peel not only rejuvenates the skin by lifting away the surface of dead, dull skin cells, but does so on a deeper level. At Dr. John Corey's practice in Scottsdale, we are pleased to offer the entire line of SkinMedica® chemical peels, which provide reliable and rejuvenating results.
To schedule a consultation or to learn more about us, please call our staff at 855-515-4177.
What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a solution applied to the surface of your skin. They are used to brighten a dull facial complexion, and to treat several skin conditions, such as:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Rough texture
- Uneven tone
- Lighter Acne scars
- Irregular pigmentation
- Sun spots
The chemical peel exfoliates your skin using a specific solution of chemicals. Peels come in different strengths, targeting mild to moderate skin issues. Our experienced team will determine which peel will fit your goals and skin type.
Types of Chemical Peels
There are three types of SkinMedica® peels:
- Illuminize Peel: This is the gentlest and lightest-strength peel. Like all of the peels, it has minimal downtime. It treats mild imperfections, including fine lines and rough texture. Because it is so gentle, it can be a great option for first-time peel patients who want to get a feel for the treatment. The mild solution means you won't experience any peeling skin after the appointment, but you will still see a more even, uniform complexion.
- Vitalize Peel: Creates radiant skin by treating mild skin imperfections. You will notice a difference after a single treatment alone, and ideal results can be reached with three to six treatment sessions.
- Rejuvenize Peel: This peel is great for treating moderate skin imperfections. Results include smooth skin, softened wrinkles and an overall healthy facial appearance. If you have a dark skin tone, we may suggest using one of the milder peels first, to establish how it is tolerated by. If your skin responds well to those, then the Rejuvenize peel will be an option.
When you visit our practice for a consultation, we will be able to suggest the most appropriate peel based on your skin and your goals.
Questions About Chemical Peels
The following are a few frequently asked questions related to this treatment:
- Do they work for all skin types? Peels work for most skin types and can be tailored to the individual. Dermatologic conditions such as Psoraisis and Excema are excluded from treatment as well as patients prone to hypertrohic scarring.
- Is there downtime? Depending on the solution used, your skin may continue to peel after treatment, as the dull surface layer sloughs away. There is some downtime required for both the Vitalize and Rejuvenize peels, though it is minimal in comparison with many other surgical and nonsurgical options. What you can expect and how to reduce discomfort in the days following your procedure will be discussed in greater detail during your initial consultation.
- How long will results last? The results of a peel are fairly long-lasting, with retreatments being performed once your skin becomes dull again, usually every three to four months. A broad-spectrum sunscreen is imperative after a peel. Your skin will be even more susceptible to UV rays when freshly treated. Sun protection also preserves your results by preventing further photo damage.
Dr. Corey will answer any questions you have about the chemical peel process.
Are At-Home Chemical Peels Safe?
Some chemical peels are formulated for safe use at home. However, these over-the-counter peels don’t deliver the same results as in-office treatments since they work more superficially. An at-home chemical exfoliant like an AHA or BHA serum can help bring some life back to dull skin, but fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, or pigmentation issues usually aren’t resolved with these products.
Using a more potent chemical peel on your own is similar to trying to go blonde at home – a task better left to the professionals. This is especially true if you’re unsure how your skin will react to certain ingredients.
At-home chemical peels can also irritate sensitive skin. You may drop more money on products to correct side effects from home peels than you would on a professional peel. An experienced provider like Dr. Corey can better determine the right strength and ingredients for your skin type.
What Can I Expect During Chemical Peel Recovery?
Chemical peel recovery depends on your unique healing process and the strength of the peel. Light to medium peels typically requires little to no downtime. However, your skin might look pink, like it does after a sunburn, and feel more sensitive and dry for several days after your appointment.
Deeper phenol peels have a more significant recovery time, requiring a week or two of downtime and redness and flaking for up to three months. You might also take medication to reduce discomfort during the initial stages of recovery. These peels are only used for advanced signs of aging or severe pigmentation and texture issues. Dr. Corey will likely recommend a gentler peel first to ensure your skin tolerates the treatment well.
Why Isn’t My Skin Peeling After a Chemical Peel?
Some patients wonder if their chemical peel is effective if they don’t notice any peeling. The amount of visible peeling post-treatment isn’t indicative of effectiveness. With gentler peels, like the SkinMedica® Illuminize Peel™, you may not experience any peeling at all. Instead, the dead skin cells simply shed off, often during gentle cleansing, to reveal a more even glowing complexion.
What Should I Do to My Skin After a Chemical Peel?
You’ll get the best results from your chemical peel if you protect your skin after the treatment. Sunscreen is the most essential product in your skincare routine year-round, but it’s especially important after a chemical peel. Pick a broad-spectrum product with SPF 30+ and avoid direct sun exposure while your skin heals.
The fresh new skin revealed after a chemical peel is usually more sensitive. Choose gentle cleansers and lightweight moisturizers to “baby” your skin while it remodels. You should also wait until your skin stops peeling to apply makeup since this can introduce bacteria or cause irritation. While it might be tempting, avoid picking at flaking skin since this can increase your risk of infection, scarring, or pigmentation issues. Following these basic aftercare tips ensures you'll get the most out of your treatment.
Can Chemical Peels Be Combined With Other Treatments?
Many patients who choose chemical peels also take advantage of other cosmetic advances like BOTOX® Cosmetic, but working with your provider to appropriately schedule different appointments is essential. Treatments like microneedling or dermaplaning should be spaced out between chemical peels to avoid aggravating your skin. You should always let Dr. Corey know if you’ve had other procedures before your chemical peel so he can create a treatment plan to meet your aesthetic goals.
Arrange Your Visit in Scottsdale
Please call the practice of board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. John Corey at 855-515-4177. We look forward to arranging a skin peel consultation for you at our comfortable, elegant Scottsdale office. Since 1993, Dr. Corey has proudly provided cosmetic surgery and rejuvenating treatments to people from across Arizona, including Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler and Gilbert.