New year, new face – benefits of getting a chemical peel!

Is getting beautiful skin at the top of your New Year’s resolutions? There’s no better way to start the new year than with a fresh, radiant and rejuvenated face. The best way to fulfill your resolution and start the year on the right foot? A chemical peel!

As the name suggests, a chemical peel is a procedure in which a chemical solution is applied to your face. The chemicals work to remove the damaged outer layers of skin, revealing smooth, healthy skin underneath. Chemical peels can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, acne spots and uneven skin texture. A chemical peel is minimally invasive and can be performed in an office setting in roughly 30-60 minutes.

There are 3 types of chemical peels to consider:

• Light peels remove only the top layer of skin. They are a fast treatment option, but the results do not last as long. Light chemical peels can be repeated every 2-5 weeks as needed or desired.
• Medium peels remove both the epidermis and the top layer of the dermis. Because they reach deeper layers, medium peels are better at addressing deeper-set issues like wrinkles. Future treatments may be necessary to achieve full, long-term results.
• Deep peels go a layer deeper than medium peels, addressing deeper wrinkles or even precancerous skin cells. A deep peel is not repeated; healing takes longer but the results last up to 10 years.

Peel results are achieved by using varying strengths of chemicals to control the amount of skin removed. Light peels use lighter ingredients, like alpha and beta hydroxy acids. Medium peels use trichloroacetic acid or glycolic acid. Deep chemical peels use carbolic acid, which requires the use of an anesthetic.

Healing time for the procedure depends on the type of peel you and your doctor decide is best for achieving your desired results. A light peel will heal within a week, while a medium peel will heal within 2 weeks. Some redness may continue for up to 6 weeks. A deep peel also takes up to 2 weeks to heal, during which you will need to wear surgical dressing to protect the healing skin. Redness may last up to 3 months.

Ready to take your skin to a new level in the new year? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kevin Perman by calling (301) 571-0000. He will discuss your goals, evaluate your medical history and learn about your lifestyle to determine what level chemical peel is best for you.