Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is a form of chemical exfoliation designed to remove damaged skin cells and replace them with new, healthy cells. A light peel reaches the outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis. A medium peel penetrates deeper into the epidermis and reaches the upper part of the dermis. Deep peels reach the deepest layer of the dermis, called the reticular dermis.

The frequency of chemical peels depends on the depth of the peel and your individual skin concerns. Superficial peels can typically be repeated every 4-6 weeks. Deeper chemical peels require more time between treatments.

The longevity of your chemical peel results can vary, but with proper skin care and sun protection, the effects can last for several months. Dr. Athré may recommend regular peels to keep your skin in optimal condition.

Yes, chemical peels can often be combined with other cosmetic treatments, such as laser resurfacing or dermal fillers, to achieve more comprehensive results. Dr. Athré will discuss the best treatment plan for your specific goals.

Most patients experience mild discomfort or stinging during the chemical peel process, but this is generally well-tolerated. A deep chemical peel can cause more discomfort, so local anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation may be administered to minimize sensation. Our team will ensure your comfort throughout the treatment.

Chemical peels may cause temporary side effects such as redness, peeling, and mild irritation. These side effects are more pronounced with a deep peel, which typically requires a few weeks of downtime. More significant side effects are rare when the treatment is performed by an experienced professional like Dr. Athré. It is very important to follow all aftercare instructions in order to protect and nourish your treated skin.

Prior to your chemical peel, our team will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare your skin. This may include avoiding certain skincare products, staying out of direct sunlight, and discontinuing certain medications.

The timeline for results can vary depending on the depth of the peel and your individual skin condition. Superficial peels may show improvements within a week, while deeper peels can take several weeks to reveal their full effects.

Light peels require minimal downtime (1-7 days). You might experience mild redness, swelling, and light peeling for a few days, but most people can quickly resume normal activities. Consistent moisturizing and sun protection are essential for optimal healing.

Medium peels penetrate deeper, reaching the upper dermis. Downtime is moderate (7-14 days), with more noticeable redness, swelling, and peeling for the first week. You might need to use prescribed ointments and strictly avoid sun exposure. While some discomfort is possible, it's usually manageable.

Deep peels are the most intensive, targeting the deepest layer of the dermis. Expect significant downtime (14-21 days) with severe redness, swelling, crusting, and intense peeling. Discomfort and pain are common but controllable with medication. Strict adherence to a prescribed skincare routine, including ointments, moisturizers, and sun protection for several months, is vital for optimal healing and minimizing side effects.