GRADES OF PEEL

The chemical peel process is minimally invasive, although there are different “grades” of peel. These refer to the depths that the chemical penetrates in a bid to remove the dead skin cells and stimulate the growth of new ones.

Superficial peels. This is the lightest and least invasive of all peels, removing only the outer layer of skin (epidermis). The chemical peel is only left on the skin for a few minutes before being removed, and the after-effects are minimal, with just some tightness felt for a few hours afterwards.

Medium peels. These remove skin cells from both the outer and middle layers of skin. Patients might experience some stinging and burning sensations when the peel is applied, which is a completely normal side-effect. Healing and side-effects are more intense than superficial peels, with redness lasting up to six weeks. At the same time, the results of this peel are more effective.

Deep peels. This type of chemical peel affects all of the layers of the skin, and so a local anesthetic and sedative may be necessary. Peeling, redness and swelling after deep peel is normal, with some side effects lasting up to three months.

Over the last few decades, the popularity of chemical peels has continued to rise. The increased demand for this highly effective cosmetic transformation procedure means that there are now more types of chemical peel available than ever before. Below are some of the most popular chemicals peels in the United States right now.

TCA Peels

TCA peels are performed using a non-toxic chemical called trichloroacetic acid which has been successfully used in skin peels for more than 20 years. TCA peels can be performed at all depths, although patients who opt for a superficial peel tend to have several treatments to achieve optimal results.

TCA peels work by removing the outer layers of skin, and encouraging the growth of new cells. Patients who opt for TCA peels enjoy a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance.

The Perfect Peel®

The main chemical used in The Perfect Peel® is Glutathione, a naturally-occurring substance found in our skin that depletes with age and environmental interference. Glutathione is an anti-oxidant that helps to fight signs of aging, such as fine lines and premature wrinkles.

The Perfect Peel® is a medium depth peel that can be used on all skin types, and the entire process lasts around 15 minutes.

Illuminize®

Illuminize® is specifically designed to be a gentle peel that is often recommended for first-time chemical peel patients. This superficial peel addresses mild skin imperfections. It is also perfect for patients who are looking for brighter, more radiant skin with zero downtime.

Vitalize®

Also from SkinMedica®, the Vitalize® chemical peel is designed for patients with mild to moderate skin imperfections that have occurred as a result of sun exposure and the aging process. Patients who choose Vitalize® peels often have uneven skin tone and texture, and report a significant improvement in the appearance of imperfections, as well as better skin color and clarity.

Rejuvenize®

Another SkinMedica® peel, Rejuvenize® is a more intense peel that can address moderate to severe skin problems including acne scarring, sun damage, and pigmentation changes and lines and wrinkles. In addition to improving the appearance of imperfections, patients can benefit from younger-looking, smoother, and brighter skin.

To discuss any of the chemical peels listed above, or to arrange a consultation with our experienced board-certified plastic surgeon, call the Weston Center for Plastic Surgery today at .