Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are topical treatments for acne, scarring, skin texture, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines
How chemical peels work
Chemical peels are liquid acids/exfoliants that work to increase skin cell turnover faster than what your body can do on its own. By speeding the process, the entire surface of your skin is replaced in 7 days. Normally, in early adulthood, it takes you body at least 28 days to do this. Starting in you late-20s, your collagen production and organization decreases 1% per year. Using chemical peels allows for rapid wound healing, visible reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, and lightening of hyperpigmentation.
Limelight Medical Aesthetics currently offers superficial and medium-depth peels. We will evaluate your skin, taking into account your specific needs, skin tone/color, and medical history, before choosing the peel most appropriate for your needs. This page primarily discusses our medium-depth peels - VI Peel and BioRePeel. For more information on our superficial peels, click here.
If you have a specific aesthetic concern, a series of peels is recommended for optimal results. Ask us about our peel packages to save on your treatments!
There are some general contraindications to having a chemical peel, so contact us if you have questions:
active bacterial, viral, fungal or herpetic infections
open wounds
pre-existing inflammatory dermatosis (i.e., psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, pemphigus)
skin cancer, without being cancer free for a period of 3 years and direct written notice from a physician.
pregnancy
history of drugs with photosensitizing potential
use of Accutane (isotretinoin) within the last 6 monthsrecent cosmetic surgery and not fully recovered
aspirin allergy
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Prior to Arrival
Prior to arrival, you would have received a questionnaire and consent for treatment. We will review these forms with you and answers any questions you may have.
Photos
We take photos with each visit. Not only does it show progress through your aesthetic journey, it also helps to understand and tweak subsequent treatments, based on outcomes from each encounter.
Preparation
Once photos are obtained, the skin will be cleansed and prepped for the chosen peel. For optimal absorption of the peel, acetone is used to degrease the skin.
Application
The peel will be applied uniformly across the forehead, cheeks, jawline, nose, and the skin between your nose and upper lip. Depending on the peel, the undereye may also get treated. The upper eyelid is never treated, as the skin is too delicate.
Between each application, we will ask about your comfort and assess for how your skin is reacting to the peel. Slight tingling is expected during and after application of each layer. While VI Peel is a medium-depth peel, it does contain phenol, which is an anesthetic, helping to quickly relieve discomfort.
The peel end-point is based on your comfort and your skin’s response to the treatment:
Pain > 4 on 1-10 scale, despite cooling intervention, is an indication to end the treatment
Frosting is the desired clinical end point for peels and will be the goal during your treatment.
Rarely, the skin stops absorbing the peeling solution before frosting occurs. This is also an indication to end the treatment.
After Treatment
After your treatment, you will be provided with aftercare instructions, which may or may not include prepackaged products. VI Peels come with a cleanser, sunblock, moisturizer (with hydrocortisone) and peel wipes that reactivate and continue the chemoexfoliation process.
Complications/Side Effects
Pain and burning are the most common side effects of a chemical peel. They are brief and can be addressed with a fan or ice pack.
Hypo-and hyperpigmentation can occur with chemical peels. Darker skin tones may need pretreatment before receiving a chemical peel to prevent burning and discoloration.
Scarring is rare, but can occur if the skin is picked and damaged during peeling.
Complications are avoidable when following the aftercare instructions provided.
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Day 1-2: After your treatment, your skin will likely become tight over the first 48 hours. Peeling is rare during this time.
Day 3: Peeling will likely begin around the mouth and nose at this time. Remember not all peels peel, exfoliation can range from skin dryness to shedding.
Day 4-6: This is when you may see diffuse peeling. It is crucial not to pick the skin, as this can cause damage, leading to scars or hyperpigmentation. If the skin it bothering you, small scissors can be used to cut it away.
Day 7-8: Primary peeling has likely ceased and your skin is bright and new. Some patients may experience secondary peeling around the mouth and nose. This peeling is more flaky and less like the sheets of skin you just shed.
For BioRePeel patients, now is the time to come back in for your next treatment.
Day 9 and onward: Enjoy (and protect) your new skin. You can restart your home skincare routine if you have finished your series of peels, making sure to include SPF throughout the day. The collagen building benefits of chemoexfoliation continue for the next several weeks. In acne-prone skin, this is the period where you may see mild purging. If this occurs, contact us for treatment instructions.
Day 28: If you are targeting a specific skin condition, a series of superficial or VI peels at 28 day intervals is recommended.
Instructions + Forms
Prepare for your appointment and learn how to take care of your treated area after your procedure for the best results in a reasonable amount of time based on the treatment received.
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Before scheduling a chemical peel, check your social calendar for events or gatherings. The peeling process is noticeable.
Peels should be scheduled at least 3 weeks prior to vacations to sunny destinations. Sun exposure during peeling and after the peel is complete, can cause hyperpigmentation.
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General
The first two days your skin will look a little tan, bronzed, or pink. It may also feel a bit tight before the peeling begins.
As a rule, treat it like a sunburn: avoid sun exposure, avoid sweating and avoid heat.
During the peeling phase you must avoid sun exposure. Even after the peeling has subsided your new skin will be sensitive to UV light. Protect your investment and reapply your sunscreen when outdoors.
If any products in the post peel kit (VI Peel only) sting or irritate beyond your tolerance, reach out to Dr. Tyler for options to use instead.
The amount of visible peeling you will experience varies greatly. You will peel as much as your skin needs to peel.
Each morning, apply sunscreen, and apply as needed throughout the day. Continue to use for the 7-day peeling process.
Towelettes (for VI Peel treatments)
FUNCTION: The towelettes included in our post peel kit provide additional stimulation or the skin and expedite the peeling process.
USE: First towelette should be used 4 hours after our peel has been applied. Subsequent towelettes will be applied at intervals designated in your aftercare booklet. All towelettes should be spaced a minimum of 4 hours apart and all towelettes should be used in the first 48 hour.
Discontinue any unused towelettes if you note any peeling within the first 48 hours.
SIDE EFFECTS: Towelettes are not refreshing towelettes. There are active ingredients in these towelettes and therefore you may note some light stinging upon application. Some people can also experience some itching, especially on night 1, which can be remedied by applying Post Treatment Repair Cream.
Peeling
For VI Peel clients, use only the post treatment products provided. For other peels, do not use products with high concentrations of active. You can use gentle cleansers, aquaphor, hydrocortisone (for itching), and sunscreen.
Days 3, 4 and 5 are the typical days of peeling. By day 6 most exfoliation has subsided.
Typically, peeling begins on the third day, starting around the mouth, then peeling outward. The forehead and neck will be the last areas to peel.
We recommend cleansing your face prior to showering and keeping your face protected from hot water.
When cleansing your face use your fingertips only. Avoid using washcloths or facial machine brushes during the first week.
While the skin is exfoliating avoid pulling, picking, rubbing and any premature removal of skin. This could lead to significant irritation and possible hyperpigmentation. Never force or peel skin off in sheets. If the peeling is bothersome, you can carefully cut the dead skin away, being careful not to get too close to your face.
When peeling make sure to keep your body hydrated and your skin moisturized.
If you are excessively dry or irritated when peeling, add a light layer of Aquaphor to provide a protective barrier.
Post Peel
RESUMING SKIN CARE PRODUCTS
NON-ACTIVITIES: Can be resumed once peeling has subsided, usually day 6-7.
ACTIVITIES: Can be resumed once peeling has subsided and sensitivity has returned to normal. usually day 7-10.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY/EXERCISE: Refrain for 72-96 hours after peel application. Inducing excessive perspiration can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or blistering.
SCHEDULING THE NEXT PEEL: Chemical peels are the oil changes of your skin. I recommend chemoexfoliation quarterly for skin maintenance. If you are treating a specific concern, ie hyperpigmentation, a series of 3 peels, at 28-day intervals, will yield the best results.
ADDITIONAL SKINCARE TREATMENTS: It is recommended to wait for a minimum of 2 weeks before any treatment that creates physical or chemical exfoliation of the skin (including facials extractions, waxing, and threading).
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Science + Education
Botulinum toxin is protein made by the bacteria, Clostridium botulinum. It works to block the release of acetylcholine, the chemical (known as a neurotransmitter) needed to activate muscle contraction.
The effect is temporary. New nerve terminals form and are eventually able to produce and release acetylcholine again, allowing movement to return to the muscle.
Holistic Aesthetic Approach
Integrative and complementary treatments include AQUAGOLD® fine touch™, wrinkle relaxers, microneedling and skincare.