Skin peels

What is a skin peel

A chemical peel is a procedure that involves applying a liquid chemical solution to the surface of the skin. The chemical causes the top layers of the skin to flake off, revealing the brighter, smoother new skin cells underneath.

Chemical peels are used for a variety of reasons, including: acne, melasma, fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, age spots, and discoloration. The type and strength of the chemical used in the procedure determine the result of the peel.

Chemical peels can be uncomfortable. If you have very sensitive skin, we may recommend a very light, superficial peel.

What to expect

The day of the procedure:

A chemical peel takes about 30 minutes. At the clinic, you’ll take off any makeup or face lotion, and we’ll prepare your skin with a medical grade oil remover before applying the peeling agent. The liquid chemical peel will then be applied to your face in a gentle manner, focusing on problem areas. The peel will sit on the face for 2-10 minutes. We’ll then wash you face, and you’ll apply a high quality broad-spectrum sunscreen in our office to protect your face as it maybe sensitive to sunlight after the treatment.

Following the peel

Depending on the type of peel, your face may feel tight, and you’ll start to flake off the dead skin cells in 1 to 2 days. Application of a post-procedure cream, available for purchase in our office, can provide relief. Especially during the week following your peel, it’s important to wear sunscreen and cover your face with a hat to prevent sun exposure while you’re healing.

Types of peels

Superficial peels

These peels affect the top layer of the skin, called the epidermis, so the recovery time is less than that of deeper peels. You can usually expect 3 to 5 days of mild redness or flaking skin. The results typically include smoother texture, decongested pores, improved discoloration, and reduction in mild fine lines. Patients often respond best to a series of superficial peels in conjunction with a skin care regimen.

Medium-depth peels

Deeper than superficial peels, medium peels affect the papillary dermis layer of skin and are best suited for patients with moderate skin damage, including age spots, actinic keratosis, and moderate fine lines. The recovery time is typically a week, with multiple days of peeling, flaking skin.

Deep peels

These peels extend into the reticular dermis and typically use phenol, also known as carbolic acid. Because a deep peel requires IV sedation and cardiac monitoring, Aspen Mountain Dermatology does not offer this procedure.