Medical Grade Chemical Peels

• Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks before the peel, as this can cause burns and increase the risk of hyper- or hypopigmentation.
• Avoid waxing, threading, or other forms of hair removal for at least 1 week prior.
• Avoid retinol, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), and other exfoliating products for at least 1 week prior.
• Smoking should be avoided for at least 1 week prior as it can reduce the skin’s ability to heal and increase the risk of complications.
• Avoid any scrubs or physical exfoliation for at least 1 week prior.
• Avoid chemical hair treatments, such as perms or relaxers, for at least 1 week prior.
• If you have an active infection, such as a cold sore or skin rash, please notify as soon as possible. We will delay the treatment until the infection has cleared up to avoid complications.
• Please inform us if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before undergoing a chemical peel, as some peels may not be safe.
• Please inform us of any known history of allergies or allergic reactions before undergoing a chemical peel. A patch test may be required prior to the treatment to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction.

During a consultation, our Nurse and Doctor will assess your medical history and skin type to determine your suitability to the treatment, discuss your concerns and goals, and answer any questions you may have. They may also ask questions about your skincare routine and any previous treatments you have had. Based on this information, they can recommend a customized treatment plan that may include chemical peels, skincare products, and other treatments that are most appropriate for your individual needs. The treatment is performed by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting, and takes anywhere from 30-60 minutes to complete.

1. Cleansing: The skin will be cleansed to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup.
2. Peel Application: The chemical peel solution is then applied to the skin using a brush or cotton swab. The solution may cause a tingling or burning sensation, but this should subside within a few minutes.
3. Waiting Period: The solution is left on the skin for a specific period of time, depending on the type and strength of the peel.
4. Neutralization: After the waiting period, the peel solution will be neutralized with a special solution or water.
5. LED Phototherapy: May be included as an add-on to enhance results.
6. Moisturizer and Sunscreen Application: A moisturizer and sunscreen will be applied to the skin to protect it from sun damage and assist in healing.

Please Note: Not all peels cause visible peeling of the skin. This does not affect the result. Aggressive peeling may not be recommended for some skin types.

• Superficial peels may produce microscopic shedding not visible to the naked eye.
• Moderate peels may cause mild-moderate shedding lasting several days.
• Deeper peels may cause significant shedding, with the skin appearing pink for up to a few months after treatment.

Redness/Irritation: The skin may be red and sensitive after the peel, and this can last for several hours or up to several days.

Swelling: The degree of swelling can vary depending on the depth of the peel and the individual’s skin type and sensitivity. Mild swelling is a normal part of the healing process and usually subsides within a few days to a week.

Peeling/Flaking/Dryness: Depending on the depth of the peel, the skin may become dry and begin to peel or flake off in the days following the treatment.

Itching or Stinging: The skin may feel itchy or stinging after the peel, please do not scratch or pick at the treated area.

Sensitivity to sunlight: After a chemical peel, the skin may be more sensitive to sunlight, and it is important to avoid sun exposure or wear a high-SPF sunscreen.

Cold Sores: Chemical peels sometimes trigger cold sores if the individual is prone to getting them. This may require the use of prophylactic antivirals prior to your peel.

Skin Purging: Chemical peels speed up cell turnover, which may cause acne-causing bacteria and other impurities to come up to the surface of the skin more quickly, causing a temporary flare-up of acne. Purging is usually temporary and will clear up as the impurities are eliminated.

Adherence to your treatment course and home care will ensure optimal and long-term results.

• The skin will be more sensitive to the sun after a chemical peel, so it is important to avoid direct sun exposure. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 50+ and reapply as needed.
• Apply a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer several times a day to keep the skin hydrated.
• Avoid picking or peeling any flaking skin. It is important to let the skin exfoliate naturally.
• Avoid strenuous exercise or sweating for 24 hours, as this can irritate the skin and increase the risk of inflammation or infection.
• Avoid saunas, swimming pools or direct heat sources for 48 hours.
• Avoid makeup or other cosmetics for 48 hours.
• Avoid applying fake tan to the treated area for 1 week.
• Wash the skin with a gentle cleanser and cool or lukewarm water. Be gentle when washing your face or applying skincare products to avoid further irritation.
• Avoid using any skincare products that contain alpha-hydroxy acids, retinoids, or exfoliants for at least 1 week.
• A cool compress may be used to help soothe the skin if it feels hot or uncomfortable after the treatment.
• Drink plenty of water to help your skin recover and stay moisturized.

The frequency of chemical peels can vary depending on the individual’s skin type, concerns, and the type of chemical peel used. In general, lighter chemical peels can be done more frequently than deeper peels, which require more time for the skin to heal and regenerate.

Superficial or light peels, such as glycolic or salicylic acid peels can be done every 2-4 weeks as part of a regular skincare routine to maintain the health and appearance of the skin.

Medium-depth peels, such as TCA peels, may require 6-12 weeks between treatments to allow the skin to fully heal and regenerate.

Deeper peels, such as phenol peels, are typically done only once, as they can produce significant results but require a longer recovery time.

The frequency of chemical peels can also depend on the individual’s skin type and concerns. For example, individuals with acne or hyperpigmentation may benefit from more frequent treatments to address these concerns.

Your clinician will create a customized treatment plan and determine the best frequency of chemical peels for your individual needs, concerns and goals. They may also recommend specific skincare products and routines to use at home to help maintain the health and appearance of your skin and support the results of your in-clinic treatments.

• Recent sunburn or significant sun exposure within the last month.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Known hypersensitivity or allergy to any chemical peel solution and/or ingredients.
• Taking oral Isotretinoin or other retinoids within the last 6 months.
• Autoimmune diseases affecting the skin, chronic imbalances and/or dermatological disease.
• Active skin cancers or lesions.
• Recent chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
• Recent facial or dermatological surgery.
• Recent cryosurgery or liquid nitrogen treatment.
• Known history of keloids or hypertrophic scarring.
• Active skin infection or acne, open wounds, recurring facial warts, or cold sores.