Chemical Peels

Chemical peels target the upper level of the epidermis and the openings of the follicles – this is a slightly deeper level than microdermabrasion. Aging, sun-damaged and acne-damaged cells in the epidermis are removed. Patients experience tighter, healthier looking skin. Again, there is no downtime after this procedure. Recovery usually involves minor flaking and mild redness for a few days. Typically, patients undergo four to six treatments to obtain the best results.

The technician typically uses peeling agents such as alpha-hydroxy acids and beta-hydroxy acids for mild peels. They help smooth rough, dry skin and even out skin tone. Deeper peels that use trichloracetic acid (TCA) also are offered. The best candidates for these procedures are patients with fair skin. TCA treats the epidermis and upper dermis and causes the upper layers of skin to peel off within five to seven days. A mild pain medication is sometimes used to ease the stinging that occurs after this type of peel. Right after the treatment, a white frost forms on the skin and begins temporarily turning red. So patients usually don’t want to go out for three to five days or, in some cases, until all the peeling has passed.

Making an Appointment

For a consultation with a Washington University cosmetic surgeon, please call (314) 362-4452.

Other facial treatments.

Disclaimer: The photos on this website are of models, not actual patients.