What Are Chemical Peels Used For?

Our office performs a range of several different peels, depending on your needs, downtime, and skin sensitivity. We love chemical peels because they promote the shedding of damaged skin, which allows a fresh new layer of younger, healthier skin to emerge.

Sensi Peel – This is the gentlest of our peels, which improves mild breakouts and skin tone. This is safe for all skin types, including sensitive, rosacea skin. There are very little downtime and no distinct peeling with this procedure. It provides a nice glow and refreshes dull skin. It can be repeated as often as desired. (Contains 6% trichloracetic acid and 12% lactic acid)

PCA Peel with Hydroquinone (and Resorcinol for lighter skin) – This peel is best for treating acne breakouts and discoloration, such as melasma, sun damage or freckles. It can be repeated every 2-3 weeks for best results. A series of 6 peels is common. (Contains 2% hydroquinone, 14% lactic acid, 14% salicylic acid, 3% kojic acid, citric acid, resorcinol, and retinol).

PCA Body Peel – This peel is designed to penetrate the skin of the back, chest, or arms. It is our favorite addition to rapid improvement of back or chest acne, but it also improves freckling or mild discoloration in these areas. It can be repeated every 2-3 weeks for additional results.

Ultra Peel Forte (Dr. Brown performs) – This is our strongest peel, which helps to improve fine lines, wrinkles, and overall aging skin. One peel often gives results, but it can be repeated monthly for several months in order to achieve maximum results. (Contains 20% trichloroacetic acid, 10% lactic acid, and retinol).

What are chemical peels used for?

– Blotchy skin and brown patches from sun damage and melasma (pregnancy mask)
– Acne and blackheads/clogged pores
– Fine wrinkles
– Very mild acne scarring
– Rough skin texture from sun damage and aging

How do I know which peel is best for me?
We would be happy to schedule a complimentary consultation where you can meet with one of Dr. Brown’s assistants to determine your best treatment plan. We understand that there are many different factors involved and this can be a confusing process. We are here to help!

How many peels will I need?
This all depends on the strength of the peel as well as the type and severity of your skin condition. Some patients are satisfied with an occasional Sensi Peel to refresh the skin. Whereas, others undergo a series of 6 PCA Peels with Hydroquinone for skin discoloration and more damaged skin. Our acne patients use the peels as a jumpstart to quickly improve the skin while waiting on their prescription medications to work.

How should I prepare for the peel?
The most important step is to avoid the sun in the area of treatment. Bring a wide-brimmed hat or large umbrella to your appointment for extra sun protection as you leave our office. We have all of the before and aftercare instructions listed on one simple handout.

Are there any side effects?
The greatest risk with chemical peels is the development of brown patches. This occurs if you do not avoid the sun while your skin is in the healing process. It is imperative to wear sunscreen for 2 weeks before your treatment and strictly avoid the sun at all times for 2 weeks thereafter. Most patients wait until the cooler months of the year for this reason. October through April (particularly January and February) are our busiest months for chemical peels.

Does a chemical peel make thin skin even thinner?
Not at all. This level of chemical peeling does remove surface buildup and the upper damaged surface of the skin, but it actually helps to stimulate collagen and elastin production in the process. This ultimately provides a stronger, more durable skin network. These in-office peels are not the same as the ultra-strong peels done under general anesthesia, which does destroy a deeper level of the skin and can potentially thin the skin. We also recommend pretreatment with Retin-A or retinol for several weeks before your peel (and indefinitely for maintenance) in order to help stimulate even more collagen production.