Acne, fine lines, brown spots.  A series of chemical peels can do wonders for any or all of the above.  We offer a variety of chemical peels that can be tailored to treat your specific condition.  A chemical peel exfoliates the top layer of skin and promotes collagen generation in the lower layer of the skin.  

What is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a treatment used to remove layers of damaged or aged skin cells to reveal softer, younger looking skin and promotes growth of new skin with an improved appearance. They help to improve fine lines, wrinkles, sun spots, blotchiness, dryness and acne. (Cosmetic Plastic Surgery & Beauty Network, 1999-2000)

What is the mechanism of skin rejuvenation from a chemical peel?

Chemical peels produce a partial thickness injury to the skin, the depth of which is determined by the chemical agents. Following the trauma to the skin, the wound healing process reorients the new skin connective tissue. Collagen remodeling is the main reason chemical peels decrease sun damage and reduce wrinkles. Dermal regeneration can take weeks to months. The epidermis, however, heals in a few days giving the skin an improved appearance, more even color, smoother texture and a healthier glow. (Skin Medica Aesthetics, 1997)

When can a Chemical Peel be performed?

A chemical peel can be performed whenever there is damaged skin to be removed. It is best performed in winter when sun exposure is at a minimum. (Cosmetic Plastic Surgery & Beauty Network, 1999-2000)

How long will the peel procedure take?

A chemical peel takes approximately 30 minutes giving the licensed esthetician or Skin Care Specialists time to evaluate and explain the process before proceeding to perform the peel. (Tricia L Hultgren, 2011)

How long will the effects of a chemical peel last?

Aging of the skin is a chronic natural phenomenon. A single peel can reverse some of the clinical and histological signs of aging, but once the skin has healed from the peel, the aging process starts again. Therefore, a daily program of specifically designed products that reverse the signs of aging is necessary to maintain long-term improvement. (Skin Medica Aesthetics, 1997)

What does a Chemical Peel Consultation entail?

A consultation for a chemical peel allows the patient the opportunity to discuss desired outcomes with Dermatology Specialists. We recommend a full skin evaluation with a skincare specialist to go over different options to achieve your goals. (Tricia L Hultgren, 2011)

How is a Chemical Peel Performed?

In general, peels usually begin with vigorous cleansing of your skin. An acetone swab will be used to remove the natural surface oils of your skin. After your skin has been prepared, Layers of the acid are gently and expertly applied to your skin. A timer is set and when the proper time has passed, the physician or licensed esthetician neutralizes the acid and removes the product. Your skin is then wiped clean and sunscreen is applied to the skin. (Tricia L Hultgren, 2011)

Contraindications to Chemical Peel:

• History of accutane within 6 months
• Vitiligo
• Lupus
• Active inflammatory skin disease on face
• Active Infection on the skin

If you have a history of frequent herpes infection on the face, a one week course of Valtrix may be prescribed following the peel to prevent an outbreak. (Tricia L Hultgren, 2011)

Can a patient who is diagnosed with rosacea receive a chemical peel?

Any chemical peel treatment for patients diagnosed with rosacea should be left at the physician’s discretion. (Skin Medica Aesthetics, 1997)

How long after receiving a chemical peel can one be exposed to the sun?

Sun avoidance during the recovery period is critical. After the peeling process is complete, one can assume regular activities, but daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen ( SPF 30 or higher) is imperative for maintaining healthy skin and preventing re-pigmentation of dyschromias. (Skin Medica Aesthetics, 1997)

When will I be able to see results?

You will notice fresh skin emerge under the peeling. Do not attempt to aid the peel by pulling or rubbing old skin off. The intensity of the pink appearance depends on the depth of the peel. Generally, skin will be brighter with improved texture after a few days. In order to see best results with brown spots, melasma, fine lines, and acne it is best to perform a series of 3 or more peels about 4 weeks apart. (Tricia L Hultgren, 2011)

Most patients leave the office looking healthy and fresh. Any redness or discoloration can easily be covered with makeup and most activities can be resumed right away. Within 48 hours following Vitalize Peel and Rejuvenize Peel mild to moderate flaking will occur, which can be controlled with moisturizers. Patients who receive Glytone should not expect to see visible peeling, due to the superficial nature of the peel. (Skin Medica Aesthetics, 1997)

What types of Chemical Peels are offered?

• Glytone Peel is our lightest peel. It is a superficial peel to give patients a brighter complexion and soft smooth skin. Best for light skin toned patients.
• Vitalize Peel is suitable for all skin types, requires little to no downtime, and produces predictable and noticeable results. (Skin Medica Aesthetics, 1997)
• Rejuvenize Peel is deeper than Vitalize Peel and indicated for patients with more severe skin damage, who require greater clinical effect. Rejuvenize Peel produces significant results with minimal irritation. (Skin Medica Aesthetics, 1997)

What are the risks of a Chemical Peel?

Hyperpigmentation (darkening of skin pigmentation) and hypopigmentation (lightening of skin pigmentation) can occur following chemical peel. Scarring, Crusting, and Stinging can also occur. If you are prone to frequent cold sores, you may have a breakout following a chemical peel; blisters that form need to be treated immediately. If you have a breakout during your healing period, it can spread to your entire face and result in severe and permanent scarring. (Cosmetic Plastic Surgery & Beauty Network, 1999-2000)

How much do peels cost?

Dermatology Specialists of Omaha offers three types of peels; please schedule a consultation to determine which peel is best to reach your desired goal.

• Glytone Peel $75.00
• Vitalize Peel $130.00
• Rejuvenize Peel $150.00

Should patients continue their acne treatment while receiving a Chemical Peel?

If the patient has an acne condition, Vitalize Peel or Rejuvenize Peel is recommended in conjunction with the other therapies prescribed by physician. Oral antibiotics, if prescribed, should be continued during the course of the peeling. The use of topical prescription medications, such as Retin-A, Tazorac, Differin, and Benzoyl peroxide should be postponed until the healing process is complete. Over-the-counter acne remedies that are drying to the skin should be discontinued until the peeling process is complete. (Skin Medica Aesthetics, 1997)

Bibliography

To find out if Chemical Peels are right for you, call (402) 330-4555 or click here to request a consultation.

Return to Cosmetic Services.