Chemical Peel

A chemical peel, also referred to as chemoexfoliation, is a cosmetic procedure that removes the top layers of the dermis in order to reveal new, younger looking skin. Chemical peels can produce a healthier complexion and are effective in treating facial wrinkles and pigmentation irregularities. They may also be effective in treating scars, particularly those caused by acne, and pre-cancerous skin growths. There are three types of peels that can be used to treat the skin: alphahydroxy acid, trichloroacetic acid, and phenol peels.

Healthy individuals who want to improve the appearance of wrinkles, pigmentation irregularities or other skin blemishes may be good candidates for this procedure. Dr. Kontis is happy to meet with you for a patient consultation to determine if you are a good candidate for a chemical peel and which peel can best address your needs.

What are the differences of the different peel options?

The mildest chemical peel is the alphahydroxy acid (AHA) peel which can be made with acids like glycolic, lactic or fruit acid. This mild peel removes superficial layers revealing silky, radiant skin. AHA peels help to even skin tone while treating subtle wrinkles, blemishes, and dry skin. The trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel is a medium strength peel that can be used to treat subtle wrinkles, acne, and pigmentation irregularities. Results are generally more significant than an AHA peel, though less so than a phenol peel. This peel generally does not require the same lengthy time for healing as a phenol peel. During application, an anesthetic solution may be mixed with the chemical peel; extra anesthesia is typically not needed. The strongest chemical peel is the phenol peel. A phenol peel treats the deepest layers of dermis and can treat deeper skin issues including pre-cancerous skin growths and deeper wrinkles. This treatment is primarily used on the face. An anesthetic may be applied to the chemical peel solution, and sedation can be used during this procedure if necessary. The phenol peel is typically not recommended for individuals with darker skin pigmentation.

The milder, more superficial peels can often be performed by our medical aesthetician. Stronger peels will be performed by Dr. Kontis in the procedure room. Milder peels like the AHA and TCA peel may require repeat treatments. Depending on the depth of the peel, patients may experience some swelling, redness, flaking, dryness or scabbing of the skin during recovery. One week after treatment, the new skin growth will be complete. However, it will be about six weeks before new collagen has formed and the final result is achieved. Patients will notice a toned, firmer appearance to the skin as well as a healthier, more youthful complexion. Patients can resume normal activities soon after a mild peel, while stronger peels like the phenol peel may require a few weeks of recovery. Patients will need to protect the skin from sun exposure after treatment.