Light Chemical Peel / Glycolic Acids (AHA)

When you look in the mirror, do you see skin imperfections that keep you from looking and feeling your best? Acne, sun damage, and uneven pigmentation can affect how you feel about yourself. If you’re unhappy with your skin, you may worry that it’s all others notice about you.

If you’re dreaming about a fresher, more youthful-looking face, a chemical peel in Barrington with Dr. Madry might be an option. Men and women can both enjoy the confidence-boosting effects of a chemical peel, treating:

  • Dull looking skin
  • Acne
  • Uneven skin color
  • Sun-damaged skin

Are you ready to look younger and refreshed?

What Is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that exfoliates the face to remove damaged layers of skin. The peeling process removes layers of damaged skin and prompts the body’s renewal process, increasing the production of elastin and collagen. Underneath the damaged layers are fresh, new skin cells waiting to face the world.

There are different types of chemical peels, each treating different types of damage by reaching different layers of skin. A light chemical peel penetrates and treats the top layer of skin. A light chemical peel is sometimes called a “lunchtime” peel because it’s quick, subtle, and requires very little downtime.

Because they treat more significant skin conditions, medium and deep peels use stronger chemicals, penetrate deeper into the skin, and have a longer recovery time. A deep peel may require anesthesia or sedation.

How Does It Work?

A light chemical peel uses chemical agents like alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids to cause controlled trauma to the outermost layer of skin, the epidermis. The chemical solution mimics your skin’s natural exfoliating process. When the damaged skin peels off, it reveals new, healthier cells underneath.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Chemical Peel?

Chemical peels work with all skin types, but darker skin tones have a higher risk of darkening after treatment.

This type of peel may not be a good solution if you have:

  • A history of abnormal scarring
  • Extra coloring in scars
  • Sensitive skin conditions
  • Medications that make skin more sensitive
  • Circumstances that prevent them from staying out of the sun while healing

The Chemical Peel Procedure

Prepare Your Skin for Treatment:

Your doctor will give you special instructions to prepare your skin for treatment. They might include:

  • Avoid tanning and stay out of the sun for two weeks before treatment.
  • Don’t use skin products with retinoids one to two weeks before treatment.
  • You may be given special skin care products to apply before treatment.
  • You may need to take antibiotics or antiviral medications.

Your skin must not have any lesions, open sores, or skin infections on the day of treatment.

During Treatment:

Here is a step-by-step of what you can expect during your chemical peel treatment.

  1. Your face will be cleaned to remove excess oil.
  2. Special care will be taken to protect your hair and eyes with gauze, goggles, tape, and/or ointment.
  3. Your doctor will brush the peel solution on your face and leave it on for a short time. It may feel warm and may cause mild stinging.
  4. Your doctor will wash the solution off your skin and/or neutralize it.

You may be instructed to apply a lotion or cream until your skin heals. After it heals, it’s essential to wear sunscreen every day. You must carefully follow your post-procedure instructions carefully to achieve your best results.

Recovery and Risks

A light chemical peel treatment may be done as a series of treatments over time to achieve the results you’re looking for. Light peels require very little downtime and recovery may be as short as a few hours. After treatment, your skin’s reaction will be similar to a sunburn. It may last for several days.

Side effects

A light chemical peel may cause:

  • Flaking skin
  • Irritation
  • Redness
  • Stinging

Risks

Chemical peels are very safe. Complications are rare but can include:

  • Infection
  • Lightening or darkening of the skin (may be temporary or permanent)
  • Scarring

How Much Does a Chemical Peel Cost?

Insurance typically won’t pay for a cosmetic procedure like a chemical peel. Your cost of treatment will depend on many factors, like:

  • The expertise of your plastic surgeon
  • The geographic location of your treatment
  • The size of your treatment area

Ready To Experience Healthy, Glowing Skin?

If you’re considering a chemical peel, schedule a free consultation today!

Schedule Appointment