What Is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a cosmetic treatment used to improve the complexion and overall appearance of the facial skin. Chemical peels can be used to treat various skin conditions, including wrinkles, acne, dry skin, uneven skin tone, sun spots, age spots, and scarring.

How Do Chemical Peels Work?

During a chemical peel, a special chemical solution is applied to the facial skin. Typically, these chemicals peel away the outer layer of skin, which allows the smoother, more youthful-looking layers to appear and triggers the body’s natural healing process. That said, every type of chemical peel is slightly different in its effects and how it works. At Arroyo Plastic Surgery, we offer two excellent chemical peel options:

VI Peel

A VI Peel is a medium-depth chemical peel that penetrates the top layer of skin and reaches the dermis underneath. These peels, which can be used on all skin types and tones, work by exfoliating the skin and stimulating the production of essential proteins like collagen and elastin. As a result, the overall structure and complexion of the skin are improved. A VI Peel can treat various cosmetic skin issues, including wrinkles, sun spots, discoloration, keratosis pilaris, and acne.

SkinCeuticals MicroPeel

The SkinCeuticals MicroPeel is a three-step, customizable chemical peel primarily used to target hyperpigmentation. Using a powerful exfoliating agent and anti-inflammatory agents to accelerate skin cell regeneration, this chemical peel can also treat fine lines, wrinkles, skin laxity, dull complexion, and other cosmetic problems.

Benefits of Chemical Peels

If you’re looking to revitalize your facial skin, regular chemical peels could offer some or all of the following benefits:

  • Smoother, healthier, more youthful-looking skin
  • Reduced signs of aging skin, including fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots
  • More even skin tone
  • Reduced cosmetic issues, including enlarged pores, acne, and scarring
  • Simple, non-invasive treatment
  • Increased self-esteem

What Should I Expect During the Treatment?

Your chemical peel treatment will be an outpatient procedure performed right at our facility. First, you’ll have a quick consultation with Dr. Arroyo, who will help you determine which chemical peel treatment is best for you.

If you’re undergoing a VI Peel, your skin will be thoroughly cleansed before the chemical solution is applied to your face in several layers. Although you’ll be able to return home after only 30 minutes, the solution will need to remain on your skin for approximately four hours.

The process will be different for the SkinCeuticals MicroPeel. After your skin is cleansed, it will be exfoliated using a special dermaplaning tool. Next, Dr. Arroyo will apply the MicroPeel chemical solution to your skin, which will remove the outer layer of skin and stimulate the production of collagen. Finally, carbon dioxide will be applied to your facial skin to reduce the inflammatory response, unblock the pores, and slough off dead and damaged skin cells.

How Long Is the Recovery Time?

After your chemical peel, Dr. Arroyo will give you detailed instructions for protecting your skin during the healing process. For example, you may need to wait several days to wear makeup or expose your skin to direct sunlight. However, you should be able to return to work and resume your normal routine immediately after your chemical peel treatment.

Am I a Candidate for a Chemical Peel?

Adults who would like to rejuvenate their facial skin could be good candidates for a chemical peel. Ideal candidates for the treatment should:

  • Be in generally good physical health
  • Have reasonable expectations
  • Have the desire to improve the health and complexion of their skin
  • Have no history of abnormal scarring
  • Be free of conditions that increase skin sensitivity
  • Not be currently pregnant or nursing
  • Not be taking certain medications, such as Accutane

Are There Any Side Effects?

Chemical peels can cause certain side effects in some patients, including:

  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Infection
  • Scabbing
  • Skin discoloration
  • Scarring

How Long Will It Take To See Results After a Chemical Peel?

Although you may start to notice improvements in your skin health right away, the results of a chemical peel usually appear gradually over a couple of weeks. Typically, the positive effects will continue to increase with repeated treatments.

Why Choose Dr. Arroyo for Your Chemical Peel?

When you choose Arroyo Plastic Surgery for your chemical peel treatment, you’ll be under the care of qualified aesthetic professionals. Dr. Christian Arroyo and his expert team will ensure that you have a pleasant experience and receive a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs. We’ll be thrilled to help you begin the process of achieving youthful, glowing skin. Contact us today if you’d like to schedule your initial consultation.

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