A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure that involves applying a chemical solution to the face to remove damaged and dead skin cells on the outer layers. The skin that grows back is smoother and younger-looking. Chemical peels are also used to remove minor scars, skin discolorations, and fine lines. They are also helpful in treating acne. Chemical peels can be applied in various strengths and done at varying depths depending on the individual. Deeper peels use stronger solutions of chemicals and require longer recovery times than lighter peels.
At Glow Medical Spa, we offer three different chemical peels from SkinMedica® – Illuminize™, Vitalize™, and Rejuvenize™.
Illuminize™
Illuminize™ is considered a light peel, which removes only the dead outermost layer of skin. A single light peel can refresh the appearance of the skin, and a series of light peels can be used to treat acne, minor skin discoloration, and fine lines.
The Illuminize™ peel is the lightest peel offered by SkinMedica®. It is ideal for patients who have never had a chemical peel before and don’t know how their skin will react. It is also ideal for patients who are just looking to refresh and renew their skin to give it a healthy glow.
Vitalize™
Vitalize™ is a slightly stronger peel, but it is still considered by standard definition to be a light peel. It is ideal for treating acne, fine lines, and minor skin discolorations and blemishes.
Rejuvenize™
Rejuvenize™ provides a medium-depth peel, removing the outer layer of skin and the upper layer of the dermis. Medium chemical peels can be done as often as every six months if desired. They can remove acne scars, wrinkles, and skin discolorations. There is a slight risk of scarring and skin darkening after a medium peel, but it will also produce a much more dramatic rejuvenation effect than a light peel.
What to Expect
During treatment, the chemical solution will be directly applied to the skin. Patients may experience tingling sensations as the solution is working. Most sessions last about 20 minutes, and the solution is neutralized and washed off afterward.
Illuminize™ peels are usually performed as a single treatment whenever a light exfoliation is desired. Vitalize™ peels give the best results when applied as a series of three to six peels at monthly intervals. Rejuvenize™ treatments will be considered on an individual basis.
Recovery
After treatment, there may be some redness and skin irritation. The fresh new skin will begin to grow three to seven days after the chemical peel. Treated skin should be carefully protected from the sun for several weeks to reduce the risk of discoloration. Recovery varies slightly by peel type:
Illuminize™ rarely causes any visible side effects. There is no downtime necessary.
Vitalize™ may cause reddening and peeling for about three days, beginning two days after treatment.
Rejuvenize™ can cause significant reddening within hours of treatment. Peeling and redness can last for seven to fourteen days.
At Glow, we’ll work with you to determine the safest and most effective chemical peel for your skin type. We’ll review the issues you’d like to address and recommend treatments suited to your needs. Contact Glow today to schedule your consultation we will make sure feel and peel your very best!
