If You Haven’t Gotten Your Fall Chemical Peel, You’re Behind the Power Curve

We’re at that time of year when our weather may (finally!) begin to cool off again. While the general extended summers we get in this part of the country do have their advantages, they also come with more chances for sun exposure and the sun damage that comes with it. During the autumn months, many people switch their skincare focus to replenishing what has been lost through excessive heat and dryness. The winter air may not be much better in terms of moisture, which leads us to wonder what we can do to support our ravaged skin. In our circle, one of the things we can do is rejuvenate the skin with medical-grade chemical peels. Here, we discuss what you need to know about this treatment. 

What is a chemical peel?

It sounds straightforward, doesn’t it? A chemical peel is a skin treatment that involves an application of some type of chemical. Right. And also, there’s more. Chemical peels are designed to address a multitude of cosmetic and dermatologic concerns using the best, safest ingredients. These can range from alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) to trichloroacetic acid to (TCA) and phenol, depending on the strength a patient desires. 

The purpose of a chemical peel is to remove the most superficial, most damaged layers of the skin. It is in these layers where pigment irregularity, blemishes, rough texture, and the signs of aging live. Generally, providers perform three different levels of chemical peels. 

• Light peels, or superficial chemical peels, are often formulated with a solution of alpha-hydroxy or beta-hydroxy acids. These most conservative peels are great for prevention and can be a part of a monthly skin regimen. They do not usually incur any downtime or noticeable side effects, but they gently slough off skin to continue cellular regeneration. 
• Medium chemical peels, which are quite popular, may be formulated with glycolic acid and trichloroacetic acid. These chemicals penetrate more deeply into the layers of skin, so do cause redness and peeling but also have corrective powers. The medium peel can reduce the appearance of brown spots and other sun damage, as well as fine lines. 
• Deep peels are the least often performed. Using potent phenol, the deep chemical peel requires a great deal of technique to avoid damaging the skin and causing scarring. The deep peel can achieve the most significant results for severe signs of aging and can last many years. However, it also has downtime that most patients do not want. 

Patients of our Reno office are treated with the ZO 3-Step Peeltm for great results without excessive downtime. Our peel services include an in-office treatment as well as a home skincare regimen that stimulates ongoing tissue rejuvenation via proprietary ingredients. 

There’s time to get your glow on before the holiday season arrives. To schedule your chemical peel or other facial treatment, contact our Reno office at (775) 826-4477.