Chemical Peels

Chemical peels involve applying pure Vitamin A or acid to the face to peel off the damaged outer layers, revealing fresher skin with a more even color and smoother texture. In addition, the peel stimulates new collagen and cell growth, thereby tightening the skin, decreasing wrinkling, and maintaining volume, which is the key to a youthful appearance.

What areas of skin can be treated?

Chemical peels can be used on the full face or on specific trouble spots, such as the forehead, around the eyes or mouth, the hands, and the chest.

What can I expect during the procedure?

The skin is cleansed to remove any makeup and excess oil. The pre-selected chemical peel is carefully applied and left on the face for a few minutes or up to several hours, depending on the skin type, the severity of the problem, and the chemical used. If the chemical peel is to be left on the face for an extended period, the patient is instructed to remove the peel at a specific time and to start an at-home regimen for optimal peeling and recovery. During the treatment, there may be minor stinging that resolves once the chemical is removed. 

Meet the Face Behind LaFace

Originally trained in ophthalmology, Dr. Laura Phan has a deep passion for facial aesthetics and the intricate art of surgery. She has trained under world-renowned experts in oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery and is one of only a few surgeons in her area with this specialist skillset. Whether she is designing personalized treatment plans or the interiors of her treatment rooms, Dr. Phan's refined aesthetic sensibility and attention to detail shine through.

Meet Dr. Phan

What will I look like after the peel?

Chemical peels require minimal downtime. You will be pink initially and flaky after two days. Depending on the chemical used, the flakiness may last a few days to a week for a milder peel or 2 to 3 weeks for a more intense peel. A gentle facial wash and sunscreen for sensitive skin should be used during the peeling stage, but makeup should be avoided until the peeling is completed.

How many chemical peels do I need?

For gentler peels, Dr. Phan recommends three peels a month apart. For more intense peels, Dr. Phan recommends one every 6 to 12 months, followed by a maintenance regimen. This will be discussed in detail with Dr. Phan based on your areas of concern. Maintenance is tailored to each patient and is recommended for best results.

What are the side effects?

Light to moderate chemical peels are very safe when applied by a well-trained provider. If the patient has a strong history of cold sores, treatment with anti-viral medication before and after the procedure is recommended.

The most common side effect after a peel is brown discoloration of the skin. This is usually reversible but, in rare cases, can be permanent. However, this side effect is preventable. It usually occurs in those who have had sun exposure after their peel and are not using a full spectrum (UVA and UVB) sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher.

What should my skincare regimen be before and after the peel?

In general, retinoic acid or glycolic acid home products should not be used for 3 days before and after a peel. For more aggressive peeling, though, retinoid acid may be used prior to the chemical peel. Patients should use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer while the skin is peeling and avoid any harsh products that may sensitize the skin. Some chemical peels come with an at-home skincare kit to be used after the peel.

How do I protect my new skin?

Those who have had peels are more sensitive to sunlight for 6 to 8 weeks after the peel. During that time, patients must use a broad-spectrum sunblock of at least SPF 30 and limit their sun exposure as much as possible.

Am I thinning my skin with chemical peels?

No. Chemical peels remove the very top layer of skin, which quickly regenerates. They also stimulate collagen in the skin to help the skin look radiant and bright.