Chemicals-chemical peels and post peel treatments:

Today, there are superficial peels and more invasive peels.  Who does them?  Estheticians, Aestheticians, Nurses, Clinical Skin Care Specialists, Physicians Assistants, Dermatologists, Other MD's.  

If you do not have the letters MD or PA behind your name,  you should not do an invasive peel!  Any one else on the list above can assist with an invasive peel and can do a superficial peel.   It is important to know that the person giving the peel has a clear understanding of the method of application, why they give it, when and to who.  For example,  The method of application with any type of peel, really makes a difference on the end result.  If a 4x4 gauze is used to apply a chemical with vigorous rubbing into the skin, there will be a greater response than if a cotton swab or fine brush is used. It is so important to have the right person with the right know how doing your peel.  The method of application should be selected bases on a clients needs, understandings as well as the approval of the Dr. or Esthetician.  

First ask yourself why do you need a peel?  Get professional advise and interview each of your options carefully.

What are the benefits of a peel?    To Refine texture,     Help improve on fine lines,      Lighten hyperpigmentaion,    Flatten mild scars.  

What are the limitations?       They can not change pore size!  They can not   remove hyperpigmentation!   They can not repair broken capillaries.

When should you get one?      They work well on sun damaged skin,  superficial lines,  pigmented skin, superficial scars,  acne and rosacea.

A gentle peel or microdermabrasion is an exfoliation procedure done manually with either a crystal microderm or a diamond tip microderm.  Now there are even laser exfoliations as well. 

Clinical Peels are used on light to medium hyperpigmentation, fine lines and mild to moderate acne.

Enzyme peel  takes 1 day to recover.    These dissolve the keratin in dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. 

Microdermabrasion takes 1 day to recover.  For dull skin helps remove dead cells for a fresher healthy glow.

Glycolic Acid peel takes 2 days to recover.  These are for Oily if you have clogged pore and break out.  Dry,

if you  have dehydrated skin and build up.   All others if you have thick skin, pigment or milia.

Lactic Acid peel takes 3 days to recover.   For dry or sensitive skin.

Salicylic Acid peel takes 3 days to recover.    Acne, hyperpigmentation, aging, warts.

Jessner Solution peel takes 7 days to revover.  For acne, hyperpigmentation and fine lines. 

TCA peel takes 10 average days sometimes more to recover.   For any skin type depending on your need.  10-30%  is superficial   30-40% penetrates the papillary dermis.  40 to 50% penetrate the reticular dermis.