Chemical Peels

What are Chemical Peels?

By: Cosmetic and Laser Clinic

Glycolic Acid chemical peels are a simple and quick method of lightly regenerating and resurfacing the skin. They remove the top layers of skin to improve sun-damaged skin, treat skin pigmentation problems, skin texture and the overall appearance of the skin.

TCA (Trichloracetic Acid) peels which are a much deeper peel can help with skin texture, wrinkles and pigmentation.

Cost $100 per treatment and up depending on type and location of peel

What is Glycolic Acid or TCA?

Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane. The strength of the peel varies (20%-70%) which determines the depth of the peel. TCA peels are deeper and have been performed for many years to provide deeper resurfacing of the skin.

Who is a candidate for this procedure?

All skin types and colours are candidates for the Glycolic Acid Peels. Dr. Farooq will determine the strength and length of time the acid is applied to your skin during your initial consultation and evaluation of your skins type and reason for treatment. TCA peels are much stronger and Dr. Farooq will assess if this peel is appropriate for you. TCA peels are usually used only in lighter skin types.

What can I expect during treatment?

The peels solution will be applied to your face. Initially, the strength and length of time the solution is on your face will be very low. The skin will be monitored during treatment. On your next treatment, the strength of glycolic acid/length of time the acid remains on your face or both may be increased. This is determined by your response to your previous treatment. You will be asked about your comfort level throughout your treatment. Vaseline may be applied around the eyes, nose and lips to protect these areas. A neutralizer will be applied at the end of the peel which stops the treatment. You will then wash your face, and a soothing cream will be applied. You will also be asked to wear sunscreen post peel. Your face may appear from slightly red to very red. This will likely clear within a few hours.

For a TCA peel, which is much deeper, Dr. Farooq will apply the TCA and keep a continuous watch over you. Your face initially will appear very white or frosted then within the next 12 – 24 hours the skin will be very red. Dr. Farooq may prescribe an antibiotic cream during the healing process. If you have a history of herpes simplex (cold sores), Dr. Farooq will prescribe you prophylactic medication to help prevent an outbreak. Your face will peel heavily. It will take approximately 1-2 weeks to recover from this type of peel, depending on the strength used.

What results can I expect from the treatment?

This depends on the type of peel, strength and reason for peel. In the lighter glycolic acid peels, you will see a freshening of the skin. It will also help clear acne. Deeper glycolic acid peels, will help remove signs of sun damage, help clear acne, improve skin texture and overall appearance of the skin. The deeper peels greatly reduce sun damage spots, acne scars, wrinkles and help with collagen remodeling.

How often do I have a peel?

With the glycolic acid peels, they can be done as often as every other week. Some patients come monthly just to maintain that glowing skin.

The TCA peel would only be repeated when the skin has completely healed from the previous treatment. This could take up to 4 weeks.

Is the procedure painful?

With the light glycolic acid peels, you generally feel just a slight tingling. The higher the concentration, the more likely you will find it slightly uncomfortable, but not painful. With TCA, you may feel slight burning to the skin that quickly dissipates.

Can I return to my activities immediately?

Yes, you may appear slightly red after the light peels. You may cover this with makeup. With the stronger TCA peel, you will be very red and have obvious peeling. You may wish to avoid public activities during this healing process.

Are chemical peels safe?

Yes, chemical peels are very safe as long as they are performed by or under the supervision of a qualified physician. Most likely, your side effects will be redness and peeling. It is a rare possibility to scar or have pigment changes using the stronger chemical peels.

How do I book a treatment or a free consultation?

If you would like to learn more about your cosmetic options, or find out if a Chemical peel might work well for you, please book a complimentary visit to speak with Dr. Farooq at 705-735-2844.