Chemical Peel

Chemical peels deliver impressive improvements for common skin complaints without needles, surgery, or laser treatments. Richard Schultz, MD, of Brookings Diseases of the Skin and Esthetics in Harbor, Oregon, offers customized chemical peels to suit a wide range of skin needs. Schedule a visit online today to learn more, or call during normal business hours to check appointment availability.    

How do chemical peels alter the skin?

A chemical peel is a deep exfoliation treatment. While treatments like microdermabrasion remove the outermost layers of skin using mild physical abrasives, chemical peels use a carefully balanced chemical solution to remove dead skin, debris, and impurities. 

There are many types of chemical peels. All of the options available to dermatology professionals far surpass the power and efficacy of products sold over-the-counter or online. 

A light peel will remove dry and dead skin cells. You may not notice visible peeling or flaking after these “entry level” peels. 

Medium strength peels go a bit deeper, removing layers of dead skin to reveal fresh and healthy skin cells. After a medium peel, you will probably see your skin flaking off in small pieces or larger sheets. 

Deeper peels penetrate into the deeper areas of your epidermis, triggering a strong peeling effect that resurfaces your skin. Significant peeling is common, and you might also experience some temporary changes in your skin color as your body reacts to the peel and healing process. 

What kinds of skin issues can a chemical peel improve?

Chemical peels are a solid treatment option for many common skin issues. Some of the complaints that bring people in for chemical peel treatments include:

• Overall dull skin tone
• Freckles
• Melasma
• Lines and wrinkles
• Enlarged pores
• Roughly textured skin
• Acne
• Sun damage
• Patchy discoloration

Best of all, chemical peels can improve more than one skin issue at a time. That makes peels a great return on your medical esthetics investment, as compared to having multiple different treatments. 

How should I care for my skin after a chemical peel?

In the days following your chemical peel, be sure to give your skin a break from any harsh or abrasive products. You can wash your skin gently using a product formulated for sensitive skin. 

Be sure to use a high quality sunscreen to protect your skin from sun exposure, and consider wearing a hat if you plan to spend time outdoors. Your skin heals quickly, so expect any redness, swelling, peeling, or sensitivity to improve within a week after a light or medium peel. Deeper peels might require several weeks to show the final results. 

If you have questions or concerns about chemical peels, call Brookings Diseases of the Skin and Esthetics today to schedule a visit. Online booking is also available.