A Smoother Face
A chemical peel uses a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. It is helpful for those individuals with facial blemishes, wrinkles, and uneven skin pigmentation. Phenol, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are used for this purpose. The precise formula used may be adjusted to meet each patient’s needs. Although chemical peels may be performed in conjunction with a facelift, it is not a substitute for such surgery, nor will it prevent or slow the aging process. At Southeast Aesthetic + Wellness in Clayton, NC, we provide chemical peels to help patients achieve smoother, more even-toned skin.
What Can Chemical Peels Treat?
Acne and Acne Scars
Breakouts and lingering scars can be frustrating, but chemical peels help by exfoliating clogged pores, reducing oil production, and speeding up skin renewal. These treatments penetrate deep into the pores to clear congestion, while collagen production softens acne scars and evens out skin texture. Fine Lines and Wrinkles Loss of collagen and repeated facial movements contribute to fine lines over time. Chemical peels encourage new collagen growth by stimulating the skin’s natural healing process. As fresh skin emerges, lines appear softer, and the overall texture feels smoother.Hyperpigmentation and Sun Damage
Uneven pigmentation, dark spots, and sun damage form when melanin accumulates in certain areas of the skin. Chemical peels break down excess pigmentation and allow new, evenly toned skin to replace discolored patches. Regular treatments can brighten the complexion and help prevent future discoloration.Enlarged Pores
Pores may appear larger when excess oil and dead skin cells build up around them. By dissolving surface debris, tightening the surrounding skin, and increasing cell turnover, chemical peels refine the skin’s texture and make pores look less noticeable.Dry, Dull, Rough Skin
Lack of moisture and slow cell turnover can leave skin looking tired and uneven. Chemical peels gently slough away dead skin. This process also enhances the skin’s ability to absorb serums and moisturizers, improving long-term hydration and softness.
What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a skin treatment that involves applying a specialized solution to the face, neck, or hands to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. This process removes dead skin cells and promotes the growth of new, healthy skin, resulting in a smoother, more radiant complexion. Chemical peels can help address various skin concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. With different levels of intensity available, this treatment can be customized to suit your unique skin needs, offering a refreshed and youthful appearance.
How Do Chemical Peels Work?
Chemical peels accelerate the skin’s natural exfoliation by creating a controlled injury that triggers cell turnover. The solution dissolves bonds between dead skin cells and allows them to shed and reveal fresh, healthier skin. AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid target the surface, improving hydration and texture. BHAs, such as salicylic acid, penetrate deeper to clear oil and debris, making them effective for acne-prone skin. TCA and phenol reach the dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin production for firmer, smoother skin.
As the skin regenerates, fibroblasts become more active, strengthening its structure and reducing fine lines, discoloration, and other textural concerns. The depth of the peel determines how much renewal occurs.
Why Choose Chemical Peels?
Chemical peel benefits go beyond surface exfoliation—they enhance the effectiveness of your skincare routine by allowing serums and moisturizers to penetrate more deeply. By stimulating collagen and elastin, they promote firmer, more youthful-looking skin over time. With different strengths available, chemical peels can be adjusted to suit your comfort level and specific goals. These non-surgical treatments work for many skin types and offer a simple yet effective way to refresh and rejuvenate your complexion.
FAQ
Chemical peels can help improve a range of skin concerns, including fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, uneven skin tone, and rough texture. They can also reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and age spots, giving your skin a smoother and more even look.
Yes, chemical peels can be safely performed on most skin types, but the type and strength of the peel will be tailored to your specific skin concerns and type. It’s important to consult with a professional to determine the best peel for your skin to avoid irritation or adverse reactions.
While chemical peels are suitable for many skin types, some individuals should avoid them. Those with active skin infections, open wounds, or certain skin conditions like eczema or rosacea may experience irritation or complications. If you’re pregnant, taking certain medications, or have a history of abnormal scarring, a consultation is recommended to determine if this treatment is right for you.
Fall and winter are often the best times for a chemical peel, as reduced sun exposure lowers the risk of post-treatment pigmentation. However, peels can be done year-round as long as you’re diligent about sun protection. If you have a special event coming up, plan your peel at least a few weeks in advance to allow your skin time to heal and reveal its full results.
Results depend on the strength of the peel and how well you care for your skin afterward. Light peels offer a refreshed glow that can last several weeks, while medium peels provide longer-lasting improvements in texture and tone. Deeper peels can produce noticeable changes for months when paired with a good skincare routine.
Recovery time varies depending on the strength of the peel. Mild peels may require little to no downtime, with some redness or peeling for a few days. Medium and deep peels may involve more noticeable peeling and redness, lasting up to two weeks. It’s crucial to follow post-treatment care instructions and protect your skin from the sun during recovery.
The number of treatments needed depends on your specific skin goals and the type of peel used. Some people see noticeable improvements after just one treatment, while others may require a series of peels spaced several weeks apart to achieve optimal results.
Yes, it’s important to prepare your skin before a chemical peel by avoiding sun exposure, exfoliating products, and certain medications for a few days prior to your treatment. After the peel, keeping your skin moisturized and using a high-SPF sunscreen is essential to protect your newly revealed skin and maintain results. We will give you specific instructions based on the peel you receive.
What Kind of Chemical Peels Are There?
Light Peel
- No downtime
- Pain-free (may feel slight warming)
- Can apply makeup immediately after
- Takes 15 to 30 minutes
Medium Peel
- Little to no downtime
- Mild to moderate flaking can occur 24 to 48 hours after peel
- Can return to daily activities after peel
- Can use make-up to conceal any flushing
- May feel a tingling or burning sensation while the peel is on
- No discomfort after the peel is finished
- Takes 15 to 30 minutes
Deep Peel
- Moderate to heavy peeling 24 to 48 hours after peel
- Bronzing and flaking appearance can occur 2 to 3 days after peel
- Tingling sensation that can be cooled with a fan
- Perfect Peel has a numbing agent, causing little to no discomfort
- Can have redness or flushing immediately after
- Takes 15 to 30 minutes.
PERFECT PEEL
The Perfect Peel is the only peel that premiers Glutathione as a founding component. Glutathione is the ultimate antioxidant known to prevent damage to important cellular components caused by free radicals. It penetrates deep into the cellular level of the skin to fight oxidant damage and is the anti-aging answer to premature wrinkling.
The Perfect Peel will:
Long term effects
Rejuvenate and produce younger healthier looking skin
Reverse sings of aging, age spots and sun damage
Erase acne scaring and blemishes
Lighten and brighten your skin
Reduce pore size and soften fine lines and wrinkles
Stimulate collagen productions resulting in firmer skin
Eliminate skin conditions such as acne, melisma, and hyperpigmentation
SKINMEDICA PEEL OPTIONS
Illuminize Peel®
Helps provide vibrant, radiant looking skin with minimal downtime. Not for sale online. Consult with your physician.
Appropriate for mild skin imperfections as determined by your physician.
Peel must be administered by a licensed medical professional (a physician, aesthetician or a nurse under a physician’s supervision).
Vitalize Peel®
Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Addresses skin tone unevenness that can be caused by acne scarring or other pigmentary changes.
Appropriate for mild to moderate skin imperfections as determined by your physician.
Peel must be administered by a licensed medical professional (a physician, aesthetician or a nurse under a physician’s supervision).
Rejuvenize Peel™
Smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. See noticeable improvement after just one peel and compelling results after three to six peels.
Appropriate for moderate to severe skin imperfections as determined by your physician.
Peel must be administered by a licensed medical professional (a physician, aesthetician or a nurse under a physician’s supervision).
The Cinderella Peel
A revolutionary skincare treatment that transforms your complexion like magic. Inspired by the timeless fairytale, this peel works its enchantment by gently exfoliating away dull, dead skin cells, revealing a radiant and rejuvenated look underneath. With its blend of potent ingredients, including alpha hydroxy acids and antioxidants, the Cinderella Peel helps to minimize fine lines, even out skin tone, and leave your skin looking smoother and more luminous than ever before. Say goodbye to lackluster skin and hello to your own fairytale glow with the Cinderella Peel.
Conditions that the Cinderella Peel treats include:
- Dull Skin
- Pore Size
- Stretch Marks
- Fine lines and Wrinkles
- Sagging
- Skin
- Scars
How to Choose the Right Chemical Peel for Your Skin
The best chemical peel results come from choosing the right level for your skin’s needs. If you’re looking for a quick refresh with little to no downtime, a lighter peel like the Illuminize Peel® might be the way to go. Need something stronger for fine lines or uneven tone? The Vitalize Peel® offers deeper exfoliation. For more stubborn concerns like acne scars or sun damage, a stronger option like the Rejuvenize Peel™ or The Perfect Peel can deliver more noticeable improvements. A consultation can help find the right fit based on your skin type and goals.
What to Expect During a Chemical Peel Treatment
A chemical peel treatment begins with a thorough cleansing of your skin to remove any oils or impurities. Depending on the type of peel, a prepping solution may be applied to ensure even penetration. The chemical solution is then carefully brushed or swabbed onto the skin and left on for a specific amount of time, usually a few minutes. During this stage, you may feel a mild tingling or warming sensation as the acids begin to break down dead skin cells.
Some solutions are neutralized and removed in-office while others self-neutralize over time. Some treatments involve multiple layers being applied. Once the peel is complete, a soothing serum or post-peel solution may be applied to calm the skin and enhance healing.
Peeling or flaking may begin within a few days, depending on the depth of the treatment. Superficial peels typically result in little to no visible peeling, while medium and deep peels may cause more noticeable shedding as the skin renews itself. Following proper aftercare helps maximize chemical peel benefits and promotes a smoother, more even complexion.
About Our Chemical Peels and Other Services
At Southeast Aesthetic + Wellness, we offer chemical peels as part of our commitment to helping you achieve healthier, more radiant skin. Our treatments go beyond surface improvements, working to enhance both the appearance and long-term health of your skin. Whether you’re looking for gentle exfoliation or deeper resurfacing, we provide options that suit various skin types and goals. In addition to chemical peels, we offer a range of aesthetic treatments, including injectables like Botox® and dermal fillers, body contouring, and advanced skin rejuvenation services. With a focus on both external beauty and internal wellness, we take a comprehensive approach to helping you look and feel your best.
Refresh Your Complexion With a Chemical Peel
Chemical peels exfoliate the skin, stimulate collagen production, and improve texture, making them a versatile option for addressing fine lines, acne scars, and discoloration. With options ranging from light to deep peels, treatments can be adjusted for different skin concerns and comfort levels. To schedule a consultation at Southeast Aesthetic + Wellness in Clayton, NC, call (919) 243-8146 or contact us through the online form.
