Preparing for a Chemical Peel
Brighter skin and fewer wrinkles are just two of many reasons individuals choose to have chemical peels. Our dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute are here to guide you through the process and procedure based on your skin type. Below you will learn more about the benefits of chemical peels and how the chemical peel treatment works.
What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a procedure used to remove layers of skin. As each layer is removed, smoother, brighter, and younger-looking skin appears. If you have sun damage or skin discoloration, a chemical peel will help clear them up. Additionally, having chemical peels done consistently will lead to an increase in collagen, resulting in less wrinkles. Most chemical peels vary based on the patient’s skin type and sensitivity. A dermatologist from Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute will help decide which chemical peel will have the best results for your skin type. The chemical peel will vary from light, medium, to dark.
Light Peel
A light chemical peel removes the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin. This treats wrinkles, acne and skin discoloration and can be done every two to five weeks based on the results you are looking for.
Medium Peel
A medium chemical peel removes skin from both the epidermis and the upper middle layer of skin. It treats the same items as the light chemical peel, but because it is a stronger chemical being used, the results last longer. Additional treatments may be done every three to nine months.
Deep Peel
Lastly, a deep chemical peel removes skin from the epidermis and the mid to lower layer of skin. This is most often a treatment done for deep wrinkles, scarring or precancerous growths. Unlike a light and medium chemical peel, a deep chemical peel can only be done once.
What to Consider Before a Chemical Peel
Side effects are to be expected after your chemical peel but may vary based on your skin type and whether you had a light, medium, or deep chemical peel done. As your skin begins to heal you will notice redness. This is to be expected but may last up to several months for a medium or deep chemical peel. Occasionally, scarring will appear on the lower part of the face or changes in skin color may occur. Skin may become darker or lighter than normal, which is often a permanent change. Infection may also occur, causing cold sores. Lastly, heart, kidney, or liver damage may rarely occur if a deep chemical peel is performed. The carbolic acid in the peel can damage the heart muscle. Don’t let these side effects scare you, as most are listed just to be sure you are aware they can occur.
It is also important to be aware of the cost of a chemical peel, since you will likely need more than one session if you are getting a light or medium peel. A chemical peel is considered a cosmetic procedure so insurance will not cover any of the costs. All costs will be out-of-pocket from the patient. The average cost of a peel is $673, but varies based on the peel you get.
Contact Us About a Chemical Peel
If you are ready to have a smooth, wrinkle-free, one-tone appearance, the dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute want to help. If you are located in the Bloomington, Illinois and surrounding areas, complete this form and we will be in touch. We look forward to providing your chemical peel treatment.