Is it ok to get a chemical peel only on my frown lines two weeks after Botox treatments?
Answer:
You can have a superficial chemical peel two weeks after Botox or at the same time because Botox effects take about two weeks to emerge. If you have very deep wrinkles then other fillers or a deeper peel may be needed/ used.
How often should I get a chemical peel to maintain my results?
Answer:
I recommend that you get a superficial peel once a month to maintain glowing skin. However, this depends on why you are getting treatments. If you are getting treatments to clear acne or improve pigmentation then initially you may only need a few sessions.
What is the downtime from chemical peels of different depths?
Answer:
Mild chemical peels have little to no down time. They are associated with dryness and peeling that can be reduced with a moisturizer. Deeper peels need about a week or sometimes more for recovery. You should discuss your goals with your physician so you can choose which fits you best.
Do chemical peels help treat hyperpigmentation? What precautions should I take before getting a chemical peel?
Answer:
Chemical peels are a fabulous approach for treating hyperpigmentation. Superficial peels can be administered once a month depending on the pigmentation severity. I cannot say how many months of treatment you require but they are wonderful for your skin. Chemical peels are a very healthy way to rejuvenate and bring out the new skin cells. After you have the treatment, stay out of the sun and wear lots of UVA and UVB protection. Deeper chemical peels are associated with downtime, but are also a helpful tool in treating hyperpigmentation, depending on the patient. Be careful, as certain peels can worsen some hyperpigmentation. Be sure to discuss this with a qualified physician.
I get cold sores from time to time and so I was wondering if a chemical peel would bring them out? I’d like to start a series of glycolic acid or salicylic acid peels.
Answer:
Cold sores can emerge from a chemical peel. The best prevention is to be on anti-viral medication from your doctor before you get the peel so they don’t appear. Cold sores are uncomfortable but they are treatable and preventable.
What type of “chemical” is used with a chemical peel? Is it good for my skin?
Answer:
Superficial chemical peels are the lightest of all peels, performed monthly with no downtime. Mild, glycolic acid treatments generally work well with many skin types, with only slight symptoms, like redness. These smooth the skin, brighten complexion, minimize pores, and reduce discoloration and fine wrinkles. There is no downtime and the results are great!
I have deep frown lines and forehead wrinkles. Can a chemical peel help to reduce their severity?
Answer:
No, chemical peels are best used to treat fine lines, uneven skin tones, acne, and to reduce scarring. Facial fillers like Botox are good non-surgical options for deep wrinkles, whereas a facelift would be the best surgical option to consider.
How should I expect my face to look in the days following a chemical peel?
Answer:
If you have sensitive, thin skin then you may experience some redness a couple days after your peel. As your skin begins healing, the top layer of skin begins to peel off and often this peeling is invisible, leaving no evidence. Your face will look its best in two weeks as the new rejuvenated skin emerges.
I have wrinkles around my nose and a little bit of acne scarring so I am looking into getting a chemical peel. Is it a painful procedure?
Answer:
Most patients experience little to no pain during the chemical peel procedure. During the procedure you may feel temporary itching and burning and mild pain medication can be administered to relieve any discomfort.
Chemical peels can take anywhere from 30 minutes to about an hour depending on the area being treated. It is known in many places as the “lunch time peel” because many patients return to work directly after being treated.