Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedures available to rejuvenate the skin. Chemical peels can soften lines and wrinkles, reduce the appearance of acne scars, and smooth irregularities on the face, neck, and hands. These treatments can also be used to eliminate uneven pigmentation, treat pre-cancerous skin lesions, and manage acne outbreaks and scarring. Our Marin County MedSpa and Surgery Center offers all levels of chemical peels, including superficial, medium, and deep.

At Plastic Surgery Specialists, our team of highly skilled healthcare professionals provides personalized chemical peel treatments designed for your unique skin type and desired outcome. We use only safe and effective chemical solutions suitable for your skin type and the conditions you wish to treat. We start with an in-depth consultation, including an evaluation of your medical history and current medications, to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you. Chemical peels can help you achieve a more radiant, rejuvenated complexion. Contact Plastic Surgery Specialists at (415) 886-0777 to schedule an appointment with our team to learn more about our chemical peel services. You can learn more about the other Med Spa and surgical procedures that we offer by following our blog!

About Chemical Peels

Are you looking for a cost-effective method of skin rejuvenation that restores a natural glow? Do you want your medical-grade skincare products to absorb more fully into the skin for better results? A chemical peel might be just the thing.

What is a Chemical Peel?

Chemical peels involve a process called chemoexfoliation. During the treatment, an acidic solution is applied to the skin. As it reacts with the skin, it causes the proteins in our outer layers of skin to coagulate, so that the targeted layer eventually separates from the underlying tissue, and “peels” away. The chemicals in the solution start a controlled inflammatory reaction that triggers the body’s wound-healing response. The result is new collagen and elastin production as a healthy layer of skin is revealed, leaving patients with a thicker, firmer, more robust epidermis. ⁽¹⁾

Chemical Peels are an effective way to:

Different Strengths for Chemical Peels

Chemical peels come in different strengths, which allow them to penetrate different depths of the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin) and dermis. By removing these damaged and discolored layers, chemical peels can resolve many common cosmetic concerns.

Superficial Peels

Superficial, or light peels, use primarily naturally occurring acids. They provide a safe and effective treatment for fine lines, pigmentation abnormalities, acne scars, and dry skin. Superficial peels cause the damaged outer layers of the epidermis to peel away. The revealed skin escalates cell growth, resulting in a smoother, revitalized, and more youthful appearance. The superficial peel is often referred to as a “lunchtime procedure,” because it only takes about 15 minutes.

Medium Peels

Medium peels penetrate deeper into the layers of the skin by using more concentrated chemical solutions. Medium peels penetrate the entirety of the epidermis, reaching the upper layer of the dermis, the papillary dermis. Increased cell growth and collagen production at this level improve the skin structure. Medium peels can take between 15 and 60 minutes.

Deep Peels

Deep peels are the most far-reaching and intensive type of chemical peel, as they penetrate the deepest. They can produce the most dramatic results; however, they are also associated with higher risks. Because deep peels permanently lighten the skin, they are not appropriate for patients with dark complexions. Deep peels penetrate to reach the papillary and reticular dermis, where collagen, elastin, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands are located. ⁽²⁾ As a result, they can treat deep lines, more severe acne scars, and extensive sun damage. A deep peel procedure can take one to two hours and requires a local or general anesthetic. The recovery time is also more extensive, and most patients will want to stay home for about a week after the procedure. Whereas the superficial and medium peels need to be repeated after some time to ensure the best results, deep peels are virtually permanent, lasting for years to come.

Chemical Peels Offered at PSS

SkinMedica Illuminize Peel

This gentle superficial peel can improve the appearance of mild imperfections and brighten the skin. Enjoy radiant-looking skin with minimal downtime.

SkinMedica Vitalize Peel

The Vitalize Peel evens skin tone by reducing the appearance of acne scars and other sources of pigmentation irregularities. The Vitalize Peel can tackle mild to moderate wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging.

SkinMedica Rejuvenize Peel

This peel is designed to specifically treat moderate to severe fine lines and wrinkles. Patients see a marked improvement after one treatment, peel, but will notice dramatic results after three to six peels.

Jessner Peel

This popular medium-depth peel contains a combination of salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resorcinol. This combination of acids makes it an excellent solution for those who are struggling with severe or cystic acne. The acids dissolve the impurities and sebum that block pores, while also removing the outer layers of skin damaged and discolored by previous acne outbreaks. This peel creates a medium amount of skin sloughing, so patients should plan for 3-4 days of downtime.

Cosmelan Peel

Cosmelan Peels are the go-to for patients wanting to lighten and brighten dark spots and other pigmentation irregularities. Besides lightening freckles, melasma, age spots, and more, it contains a unique formula that prevents the overproduction of melanin, so dark spots can’t return.

Cosmelan Intimate Peel

Hyperpigmentation in intimate areas like the pubic and anal regions can be treated with this unique peel. This treatment is increasingly popular, as darkened skin in intimate areas can have a significant impact on self-esteem and an individual’s sex life. This peel lightens and provides anti-aging benefits, and is an effective way to achieve long-term improvements after just a single session.

Chemical Peel Benefits

Chemical peels are an excellent, minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that can help you achieve a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance. At Plastic Surgery Specialists, our team of experts offers customized chemical peels that are tailored to your unique skin type and concerns. Benefits of chemical peel treatments:

Our team is committed to providing you with the highest quality cosmetic care and delivering natural-looking results that enhance your natural beauty. If you’re interested in learning more about chemical peels or want to schedule a consultation with our team, contact Plastic Surgery Specialists today at (415) 886-0777. We look forward to helping you achieve your cosmetic goals.

Candidates

Ideal candidates for a chemical peel are individuals who want to improve the appearance of their skin. Chemical peels can address various concerns, including:

Candidates must be in good overall health and have realistic expectations for the procedure’s outcome. Patients must follow post-treatment skin care instructions and understand that they can expect several days to a week of peeling facial skin during their recovery. Once they’ve healed, patients will see dramatic improvements and radiant skin!

Personal Consultation

At Plastic Surgery Specialists, we understand that everyone wants to look their best. That is why we offer personal consultations for chemical peels to help you determine whether this treatment is right for you. During your consultation with our team in Greenbrae, we will take the time to discuss your cosmetic concerns and medical history to determine if a chemical peel is appropriate for your skin type and concerns. Our team will examine the condition of your skin to determine the best type of chemical peel for you. We offer a range of chemical peels, from gentle peels to more aggressive options that provide deeper exfoliation. Depending on your unique needs, we may suggest a series of peels to achieve optimal results.

Our team at Plastic Surgery Specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care and attention to each patient. We believe that every individual deserves to feel confident and beautiful, and we strive to help you achieve that through our chemical peel treatments. To schedule a personal consultation with our team in Greenbrae, call us today at (415) 886-0777. We also offer virtual consultations for your convenience. Let us help you achieve the radiant, youthful-looking skin you deserve.

Preparation

Before undergoing a chemical peel, there are several important steps you should take to prepare for the procedure. At Plastic Surgery Specialists, our team is committed to ensuring that you are fully prepared for your chemical peel and that you achieve the best results possible.

Here are some steps you can take to prepare for your chemical peel:

By following these preparatory steps, you can ensure that you have a safe and successful chemical peel procedure.

Procedure

At Plastic Surgery Specialists, our team of experienced professionals will guide you through the process to ensure the best possible outcome.

The details of your chemical peel treatment will depend on the depth of the peel and the specific type of peel being used. Before the treatment begins, your face will be thoroughly cleansed and anesthetized. Then, one of our medical aestheticians will apply the chemical solution to your skin in smooth, even layers, focusing on areas requiring more intensive treatment and feathering out the solution along the edges of your face. Medium and deep peels will react with the outer layers of skin to create a “frosted” effect. Once the required amount of time has passed, the chemicals will be neutralized, and your face will be treated with aftercare products to encourage healing. For certain kinds of chemical peels, you may be required to leave the solution on your skin for several hours and wash your face with a mild cleanser after you return home. We use only the highest quality products and the latest techniques to ensure optimal results. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, and recovery time may vary depending on the depth of the peel. ⁽²⁾

Recovery

After a chemical peel, your skin will be sensitive and may appear red or irritated for several days. It is important to avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect the delicate new skin. You may experience peeling and flaking in the days following the procedure, but this is a normal part of the healing process. It’s important to be patient and not to pick or pull at the peeling skin to avoid damage or scarring during this time. Our team will provide you with instructions on how to care for your skin during the recovery period, including the use of topical creams and ointments to promote healing and minimize discomfort. Depending on the type and strength of the chemical peel, your recovery time may vary. Lighter peels may only require a few days of downtime, while deeper peels may take up to two weeks for a full recovery. During this time, it is important to avoid strenuous exercise and other activities that could cause sweating or irritation to the skin.

Results

Once your skin has fully healed, you will notice a significant improvement in the tone, texture, and overall appearance of your skin. Fine lines and wrinkles will be reduced, hyperpigmentation will be lessened, and the skin will have a smoother, more radiant glow. Depending on the skin conditions being treated, you may require a series of peel treatments to experience an optimal outcome. Results are long-lasting, although regular treatments may be necessary to maintain optimal results.

How Much Does a Chemical Peel Cost in Marin County?

As a plastic surgery practice, we understand that cost is a significant consideration for patients seeking cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels. The cost of a chemical peel varies depending on the type of peel, the extent of treatment, and the number of appointments required. We offer personalized consultations to determine the best course of action for each patient, including a customized treatment plan with an accurate estimate of the costs involved. Our team at Plastic Surgery Specialists is committed to providing affordable, high-quality care to all our patients. To schedule your consultation with us, please call (415) 886-0777 or fill out our online contact form.

FAQ

References

1. Soleymani T, Lanoue J, Rahman Z. A Practical Approach to Chemical Peels: A Review of Fundamentals and Step-by-step Algorithmic Protocol for Treatment. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology. 2018;11(8):21-28. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6122508/
2. Chng WQ, Samuel M, Naidoo K, et al. Topical treatments and skin‐resurfacing techniques for skin ageing. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2021;2021(8):CD014391. Published 2021 Aug 19. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD014391