Chemical Peels
If you have acne scars on your face, visible sun damage, blotchy or uneven skin tone, fine lines, or just feel like your face could use a little boost of radiance, then a chemical peel might be the treatment you need! This facial skin resurfacing treatment offered in Walnut Creek is highly effective at improving the appearance of your skin and can even be used to treat early pre-cancerous spots.
How a chemical peel works
Chemical peels are topical formulas of specialized ingredients that exfoliate the top layer of your skin in a controlled manner to reveal younger, healthier skin beneath. The result after your skin is resurfaced is a fresher, brighter appearance. Chemical peels are often used for the following applications:
- Treatment for facial acne scars
- Smoothing skin and renewal of skin texture
- Minimizing large pores
- Evening out skin tone and reducing the appearance of sun spots, freckles, or other areas of hyperpigmentation
Types of chemical peels available
Dr. Christine Lee at The Skin and Laser Treatment Institute in Walnut Creek is highly skilled at working with patients to understand their skin and cosmetic concerns and then recommending the appropriate skin peels, either alone or in combination with other treatments, to achieve their desired results. For example, the key ingredients in chemical peels for acne scars may be different than the peeling agents needed to reduce hyperpigmentation.
Chemical peel process
To prepare for your chemical peel, you may need to stop taking certain medications or start using a topical agent such as Retin-A or glycolic acid. Dr. Lee will discuss any preparation you need to do and what to expect during the procedure.
The chemical peel is done in the office by first cleaning your skin and then applying the right treatment agents for your specific skin needs and goals. The effect of the chemical on your skin is similar to creating a small wound on your skin, which may result in a stinging or burning sensation. Your doctor can discuss whether taking pain medication before or after the procedure is advised.
After the treatment is over, the skin typically reacts in a similar way as when it gets sunburned. The affected skin will be red and then peel off in patches over the next three to seven days. Deeper peels may have more side effects such as blistering and swelling, but deeper peels also tend to achieve more dramatic end results.
Call Dr. Lee at (925) 528-0117 to discuss your skin concerns and learn about the treatments that are right for you!
