CHEMICAL PEEL TREATMENTS
For those wanting to see and feel an improvement in the look and texture of their skin, Chemical peel treatments are an effective and minimally invasive treatment option. At MOD Dermatology, Dr. Ortleb offers several types of chemical peels, each having different uses, expected outcomes, and required downtime.
WHAT IS A CHEMICAL PEEL?
As the name suggests, this method of facial rejuvenation involves the application of diluted acid to the skin to cause a controlled injury to the skin’s superficial layers. As this skin renews, it heals looking younger, smoother, and evenly toned.
What’s the Difference Between Light, Medium, and Deep Chemical Peels—and Which is Right for You?
Chemical peels can be done in light, medium, or deep depths. The deeper peels are typically reserved for those needing to see more dramatic results, such as reducing the appearance of deep wrinkles and even removing precancerous growths. However, the deeper the peel, the more intense the treatment and the longer the downtime. True deep peels require sedation and are typically done in the operating room—because of this, we do not do deep peels at MOD dermatology. As an outpatient dermatology clinic, we utilize superficial and medium depth peels to achieve our patient’s goals.
Before having your treatment done, you can meet with your dermatologist to help you determine which kind of chemical peel is right for your skin type, medical history, and overall goals.
Removes just the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and is ideal for treating fine lines, acne, uneven skin tone, and dry skin. These require little to no downtime.
Removes epidermis and the surface of the middle layer of skin (dermis) and is ideal for treating acne scars, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. These typically require several days of downtime.
Removes epidermis and portions of the middle to lower layers of the dermis and is ideal for treating deep wrinkles, scarring, and growths. These will require several weeks of downtime.
How to Prepare for Your Chemical Peel Treatment—Schedule Your Initial Consultation
The first step in preparing for your chemical peel treatment is scheduling an initial consultation with your dermatologist. Dr. Ortleb with review your medical history with you to determine if you are an ideal candidate, as well as discuss your skin goals to determine which depth will give you the most satisfying results.
Preparing For Your Treatment
Once you have scheduled your chemical peel, preparing for your treatment simply involves following a typical, healthy skincare routine. Most importantly, you’ll want to make sure you’re moisturizing and applying sunscreen daily.
Medical History Considerations
The following medical events should be taken into consideration when determining if you’re an ideal candidate:
- Heart, liver, or kidney conditions.
- Any medications you’re taking, especially those that make your skin sensitive to the sun.
- Past surgeries or cosmetic procedures.
- Your current use of retinoid creams.
- Frequent occurrence of cold sores.
- Herbs, vitamins, minerals, and over-the-counter drugs you take routinely or have stopped taking recently.
What are Chemical Peels Used to Treat?
Chemical peels can be applied to the hands, neck, and chest to improve the appearance of the skin. Popular uses of chemical peels include diminishing signs of aging, as well as treating some types of acne and conditions that discolor the skin. Depending on the depth of the chemical peel, they can effectively treat the following skin problems:
- Sun damage
- Brown spots
- Fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Acne
- Melasma
- Uneven complexion
- Dryness
Chemical Peel Aftercare
Taking good care of the treated area after your chemical peel can help prolong results and diminish side effects. We recommend taking the following precautions to ensure the health of your skin post-peel:
- Protect your skin from the sun and UV rays—including tanning beds—until your skin is healed, and make sure to use sunscreen daily.
- Don’t pick at any scabs that may form during the healing process.
- Wait until the skin heals to apply makeup. For light peels, you can usually use makeup the next day.
Closely follow any routine that your dermatologist gives you for the healing process to ensure the best results.
WHY SHOULD A CHEMICAL PEEL BE YOUR NEXT TREATMENT?
1. A LOW-RISK WAY TO IMPROVE THE SKIN’S COLOR, TONE, AND TEXTURE
Professional chemical peel treatments are a safe way to remove damaged skin cells to allow newer, healthier cells to the surface. While not all chemical peels are treated equally, most professional treatments are safe for all skin tones when administered correctly. A consultation with our experienced dermatologist, Dr. Ortleb will determine what type of peel is best for you based on skin type, your skin's current condition, and desired outcome.
2. PEELS CAN MAKE YOUR SKINCARE PRODUCTS MORE EFFECTIVE
Not only do chemical peels increase collagen production, but they can also work to reveal smoother skin that is more receptive to face treatments, serums, and moisturizers. Your skincare products perform better after a chemical peel because there are no longer dead skin cells preventing their penetration.
3. CAN HELP TO GET RID OF ACNE AND SOFTEN SCARS
Chemical peels such as salicylic acid deeply penetrate the skin to unclog pores, dissolve blackheads on the surface and can help to fade acne marks or scars. Most results depend on different factors such as what type of peel was performed, how often you receive one, and your specific skin type.
Chemical Peels FAQs
When chemical peels are done as a cosmetic treatment, insurance will not cover the cost of the procedure.
The time it takes to see results and how dramatic those results are will depend on the depth of your chemical peel. Once your skin heals from the treatment, you should notice improvements. For light chemical peels, you might have to undergo a few treatments to reach your desired results.
The results of your chemical peel will vary depending on your age and your skincare habits. Because your skin continually ages, results will not be permanent, but protecting your skin against the sun and maintaining a healthy skincare routine may help prolong results.
Yes—dermatologists have been using chemical peels to treat a variety of skin problems for more than 50 years. When done by a board-certified dermatologist, the practice is safe and reliable.
Contact MOD for Your Chemical Peel Treatment in Omaha
If you are in need of a chemical peel, MOD Dermatology is the dermatology center in Omaha for you! Our experienced dermatologist, Dr. Ortleb, offers a variety of chemical peels. Scheduling a consultation to discuss your concerns is preferred. Oftentimes we can also perform the peel the same day if desired. For more information call today to arrange an appointment: 402-505-8777