The chemical peel process is fairly quick and easy. You will lie down on a comfortable bed, with eyes closed. We will begin with a double cleanse (no steam), we will then apply a prep solution to dry out and protect the skin. You will then be handed a fan to hold over the face, in order to make the experience more comfortable. The peel will then be applied with a soft brush or gauze, and we will leave it on for 1-10 minutes, subject to peel type and client comfort level. Superficial peels will be removed with cold water, while medium and deep peels will remain on the skin. We recommend leaving it on a minimum of 8 hours. Superficial peels have add-on options.

Chemical peeling is an accelerated exfoliation that is induced by a chemical agent. Peels are topically applied acids that cause a controlled injury (not true of superficial peels) that aids in the restoration and rejuvenation of the skins surface. There are three types of peels, superficial, medium, and deep. Superficial peels cause light physical peeling to none at all in most clients. They only penetrate the epidermis, which makes it ideal for correcting minor skin conditions. Superficial peels stimulate collagen and epidermal growth, and help melanin distribute more evenly. They are a wonderful addition to treating all skin care concerns. Medium depth peels also remove skin cells from the epidermis, but also remove portions of the upper part of your middle layer of skin. You should expect some amount of peeling to occur. Deep peels cause necrosis and inflammation in the epidermis, papillary dermis, and reticular dermis. Most clients will not require a deep peel to get desired results. It is only necessary for deep wrinkles, acne scarring, and severe hyperpigmentation. A deep peel should not be needed more than once and is most often performed by an MD.

Pre-conditioning is the act of creating a regular skin care routine prior to peel process. This helps prep the skin for deeper penetration, and faster recovery, as well as automatically improve skin appearance. With proper pre-conditioning, a superficial peel can mimic the result of deeper treatments. A pre-conditioning regimen should include regular use of alpha hydroxy acids or beta hydroxy acids. This includes but is not limited to retinol, hydroquinone, vitamin c, mandelic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, alpha-arbutin and/or ascorbic acid. This will help promote collagen growth, and it makes an extreme reduction in pain or irritation during the peel process. Pre-conditioning also includes daily use of sunscreen to maintain skin health. Pre-conditioning must begin at time of first peel, possibly before peel depending on Fitzpatrick level. Conditioning the skin IS necessary in order to achieve desired results. During consultation we will help you build a regimen that is specific to your skin concerns.

Following a chemical peel you should expect to peel for 3-14 days, this is dependent on both the level of peel and your personal skin. Do not pick, scratch, or pull on the skin, as this can damage the peel process.

Superficial peels mays be repeated every 10-14. Medium level peels may be repeated every 2-9 months. 

Superficial peels yield results in 24-72 hours. Medium depth peels see results within 1-2 weeks. Results can be easily maintained with a good home care regimen, but maintenance treatments can be done every 4 weeks-12 months.

Yes, contraindications for peels are Accutane (must be off for six months), pregnancy or lactation, certain acne types, cold sores, Retin-A (must be off for a minimum of one week), recent surgery, open lesions, sunburn,  hydroquinone (must be off for one week), and improperly pre-conditioned skin.