Chemical Peels

The skin is the largest organ in our body. It is made up of millions of cells that protect us from the environment and regulate our body temperature. Every day thousands of cells die, flake off and are replaced by new cells from beneath the skin. As we age, this process begins to slow down. Our skin may become dull. Dark blotches, fine lines and other signs of sun-damage and aging begin to appear.

What skin conditions can a chemical peel improve?

Chemical peels can effectively improve a wide variety of skin conditions including:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Uneven pigmentation
• Shallow acne scars
• Sun-damaged skin
• Age spots
• Freckling

A chemical peel is not a substitute for a facelift. It can not eliminate excessive or lax skin. But, in many cases a chemical peel is performed in conjunction with these procedures.

What is the treatment like?

At MD Beauty Labs, we use Skin Medica’s vitalize peel. This is a very superficial peel requires little to no downtime for the patient. It is the only superficial peel suitable for all skin types. It’s special formulation includes a unique blend of peeling agents: alpha-hydroxy acids, beta-hydroxy acids, resorcinol, and retinoic acid (obtained by physician)

Results are predictable and noticeable after just one peel - dramatic results are seen after a series of peels.

Unlike laser peels, chemical peels can be performed on the face, neck, chest, hands and even the arms and legs. Depending on your skin type and the desired results, Dr. Dadurian may recommend a superficial or medium chemical peel. A detailed consultation and skin analysis will be given in order to determine the proper chemical peel for you. Once applied, the chemical produces a separation and peeling of the outer layers of the skin. This stimulates the production of new skin from beneath. Most patients experience a warm to hot sensation which may last as long as ten minutes, followed by a stinging sensation. For deeper peels, some patients require anesthesia.

What should you expect after treatment?

Reactions to chemical peels are similar to a sunburn and range from mild to more pronounced. Generally, the deeper the peel, the longer the recovery. A light peel usually results in some redness, and possibly some scaling for a few days. Following a chemical peel, your new skin will be tighter and smoother. Following any skin peel, it is important that you avoid any exposure to the sun. Your new skin is very sensitive and susceptible to injury. Always apply a wide spectrum (UVA and UVB blocking) sunblock of at least SPF 15 twenty minutes before you go outside.