Chemical Peels Recovery and Results

Chemical peels achieve their effects through so-called controlled damage, removing specific layers of skin and encouraging the growth of collagen and elastin, resulting in skin that appears smoother, firmer and more refreshed. The results and recovery of chemical peels are largely determined by the depth of peel, with deep peels achieving the most significant results, but also associated with the longest recovery time.

Light peels remove the uppermost layer of skin, smoothing away fine lines and removing superficial damage that can occur as a result of sun damage, aging or acne. Results are temporary, and many individuals undergo a series of peels to achieve the outcome they want. Recovery is minimal, and most men and women can return to their normal activities immediately after treatment.

Medium peels penetrate the deeper layers of the skin. Men and women treated with medium peels will see noticeable results in the appearance and texture of skin, and can have mild to moderate wrinkles, sun and age spots, and deep acne scarring removed. These peels usually result in some shedding of skin, which may take place over several days to a week or more following treatment. Redness and some discomfort usually follow medium chemical peels. Medium peels carry some risk of scarring.

Deep peels offer the most significant results. In addition to removal or softening of scars, deep wrinkles and facial folds and creases, deep chemical peels result in a marked improvement and evening out of skin tone and texture. Because they penetrate much more deeply than other peels, deep chemical peels involve significantly longer recovery periods, usually lasting several weeks and sometimes lasting for months. Blistering, peeling and scabbing occur following deep peels, and care must be taken to avoid infection during the recovery period. Your specialist will provide you with detailed care instructions to ensure an effective healing process. Deep peels also carry some risk of scarring.