CHEMICAL PEELS WASHINGTON D.C.

Chemical peels are a very effective way of rejuvenating the skin. By applying different types of acid to the skin, the clinician is able to produce a mild burn, similar to a sunburn. The body’s response to an injury of this type is to produce collagen, so any chemical peel will provide excellent anti-aging benefits. Chemical peels are nothing to be afraid of, often, they are misunderstood. Most superficial peels will not cause the skin to actually peel. Instead, you will notice that your skin will have a slight glow. People may ask if you are in love. Chemical peels do not hurt. Even though they are similar to a sunburn in nature, chemical peels do not feel like a sunburn. During the procedure, you may feel mild stinging or itching. Most people rate this sensation at about a three on a scale of one to ten. After the procedure, you may resume your normal activities immediately and should feel no discomfort.

We use alpha hydroxy acids, or AHA’s. AHA’s are exfoliants derived from natural sugars. AHA’s are great for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging such as discoloration of the skin. AHA’s are generally safe when used in recommended doses. The most common side effects of chemical peels are mild skin irritations and flaking. These are generally very mild and go away a day or two after treatment. Different acids provide different results. Most chemical peels are considered superficial, with little or no downtime, and can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions such as acne, scars, sundamage, fine lines and wrinkles. We use glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, and trichloracedic acid, or any combination of these, depending upon your individual needs.
           
Please call our Washington, D.C. office at 202-862-2600 for a complimentary consultation with our skincare specialist

Glycolic Acid Chemical Peel

Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane. It is a water soluble acid and is absorbed by the skin quickly. As this acid penetrates, it breaks down the glue that holds skin cells together so that dull, lifeless skin cells can break free. Glycolic chemical peels are best suited for anti-aging, and skin discoloration, but can also be used with great success to treat acne. For maximum results, glycolic peels are done in a series of six treatments at intervals of seven days to three weeks.

Salicylic Acid Chemical Peel

Salicylic acid is an oil soluble acid derived from wintergreen leaves. This acid dissolves oil, is anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial and is excellent for acne, and in higher concentrations, for acne scars. People who are allergic to Asprin should not have this peel. We recommend a series of treatments, with intervals of 10 days to three weeks.

Lactic Acid Chemical Peel

Lactic acid, derived from milk, is excellent for brightening and evening out skin tone. Lactic acid’s larger molecules penetrate the skin more slowly than glycolic acid, making it much less harsh and ideal for sensitive or mature skin

Obagi Blue Peel

The Obagi Blue Peel uses trichloracetic acid (TCA). TCA is a chemical solution made by chlorinating acetic acid. TCA peels are more effective than glycolic or other alpha hydroxy peels in removing superficial, damaged skin. It does penetrate more deeply than AHA’s, and is therefore, considered a medium depth chemical peel. The Obagi Blue Peel is truly the Gold Standard in chemical peels and it is ideal for the patient who wants dramatic results with only one procedure. The Obagi Blue Peel corrects skin laxity, hyperpigmentation, large pores, acne scars, acne, uneven skin tone, and more. Pre-treatment and downtime is required for healing.

Chemical Peel For The Body

Chemical peels can be done on any part of the body to smooth callouses or keratoses, diminish scars, or fade age spots or discoloration. We use a special peel just for the body that is a combination of glycolic, lactic, kojic,and malic acids, along with antioxidants and skin conditioners to leave your skin feeling soft and smooth. A series of six treatments, spaced two to three weeks apart is recommended.

The Procedure

Chemical peels are normally applied once a week, for six weeks, or one skin cycle. The skin is cleansed, and the solution is applied to the face. AHA’s may also be mixed with creams to help even out and smooth the skin before your procedure.  Chemical peels are performed in our office, and generally take less than thirty minutes. AHA peels may cause temporary stinging, and a flushed appearance. There is no need for “after peel” covering or ointment, and you should be able to resume your normal activities immediately. Anesthesia is not required.

Return to Procedures

Back to top