What is a chemical peel?
This treatment involves application of a chemical solution to remove the outer layers of skin so that a smoother, more evenly pigmented, glowing layer of skin can appear. There are 3 types of peel: light, medium, and deep. The use of each type depends on the severity of the skin condition. Which type to use is mostly according to the expertise and professional recommendation of the clinician.

What skin conditions would benefit from chemical peel?
Sun-damaged skin, unsightly roughness, increased and uneven pigmentation, moderate wrinkling, acne, and freckles.

How long does it take?
The treatment of the full face generally lasts about 15 to 20 minutes.

Does it hurt?
During the procedure, there is a brief, burning sensation, followed by a feeling of numbness or stinging. The deeper the peel, the stronger the sensation gets. The discomfort, generally, is tolerable.

What should I expect after the procedure?
Most people experience some facial swelling and reddening. There will be some flaking, skin irritation, or dryness. These side effects diminish over time. Once the skin heals itself naturally, the outer layer of the skin sheds off. Patients are usually able to return to their normal social or public activities after a light peel.
For deeper peels, healing usually takes 7-10 days. A scab may form, and within 7­10 days, new skin will form. While the will be red at first, the color will lighten over a few weeks to a few months.
It is extremely important to use a sunscreen with at least SPFI5. This is readily available for purchase at the clinic. Use the creme twice a day.
There is a need to stop smoking for at least a week. Smoking slows the recovery phase down.

When should chemical peel NOT be given?
Patients with a history of blisters, cold sores like herpes and shingles.
Phenol (deep) peels is not recommended for those with heart disease or family history of heart disease.
Those on chemotherapy, and/or on blood thinners such as Plavix and Coumadin should avoid use of chemical peels.
Keloid-forming skin is not a good candidate for chemical peels.
If Accutane is currently used by the patient, the patient should wait at least 6-12 months after discontinuing Accutane.