A chemical peel is a skin resurfacing procedure that involves the use of acids to remove the outer layers of the skin and encourage skin cell turnover. Chemical peels are split into three categories: superficial peels, medium-depth peels, and deep peels.
Superficial peels are able to remove the upper layer of the skin (epidermis), and you can get these every five weeks. Medium-depth peels go deeper by removing layers of the epidermis and small portions of the dermis, and you can get these every four months.
A deep peel reaches the reticular dermis. However, you should wait two to three years to get another one.
At Medical Aesthetics & Laser, Dr. Safoora Zaka uses chemical peels to address a variety of skin imperfections. Read on to find out what you can expect from a chemical peel, and learn what skin issues you can target by opting for one.
By exfoliating and removing skin tissue at various depths, Dr. Zaka can unclog pores, remove scars, eliminate hyperpigmentation, and decrease the appearance of fine lines.
During a chemical peel treatment, Dr. Zaka asks you to lay down while she cleanses your skin. She applies the active ingredients on your skin using a cotton ball or a brush. The ingredients are left on your skin for three to five minutes before being neutralized.
After the acids remove the dead skin cells and the damaged upper layers of skin, you may notice some redness and irritation. However, these symptoms will go away on their own within a few hours.
Depending on the strength of the chemical peel, you may notice either a subtle or significant improvement in your fine lines, hyperpigmentation, acne spots, and acne scars.
Chemical peels are great for addressing skin issues on the upper layers of the skin. However, patients with poor skin elasticity, keloids, and deep wrinkles aren’t good candidates for chemical peels.
Recovery may last anywhere between five and seven days. During this time, you’re advised to use a moisturizer and sunscreen, as your skin is more vulnerable to UV rays.
Dr. Zaka uses the IV peel, a medium-depth chemical peel that can rejuvenate and fight skin imperfections on the chest, hands, neck, and face.
Schedule an appointment to get your skin examined by Dr. Zaka, and find out if you’re a good candidate for a chemical peel. In addition to chemical peels, Dr. Zaka also offers injectables, laser treatments, microneedling, and ultrasound therapy.
