5 steps to radiant skin with chemical peels

The Eternal Dermatology & Aesthetic Center team performs many different types of chemical peels from our Baltimore, Maryland area office in Fulton. There are numerous options available, as chemical peels are highly customizable to each patient’s unique skin type, tone, needs, and more. While peels vary, there are five steps that all individuals undergoing a chemical peel should expect during the treatment process.

Step 1 – Pre-treatment 

The deeper the peel, the more intense the preparation. Everyone undergoing a chemical peel can benefit from a pre-peel skin care plan. Adjustments to your skincare routine offer numerous benefits. They allow for the peel to penetrate evenly and effectively, minimize the risk of complications, promote faster healing times and more predictable outcomes, and improve the overall health of your skin. Depending on the nature of your skin concerns (and the nature of the peel itself), we may recommend discontinuing retinoids and other potent exfoliants before treatment, as well as incorporating special skincare products.

Before & After Results

Laser Treatment for Skin Discoloration

• This patient was born with Nevus of Ota, which caused brown discoloration along one side of her face.
• We performed a series of LaserGenesis treatments, which helped break up and fade the brown pigment.
• The patient was very pleased with the results, as this had been an issue she had dealt with her entire life.

View More Results

Step 2 – In-office pre-peel

Arrive at our office with a fresh, clean, and makeup-free face. Before applying the formula that “works its magic” on your concerns, we prepare your skin by removing any lingering dirt, oils, and product. We also apply a special solution to help us uniformly apply the peel formula that is most appropriate for your skin and situation. This solution also helps to ensure your custom formulation sinks into the skin. An anesthetic is generally not necessary for lighter peels, but some type of anesthesia and pain management is essential for deep peels. 

Step 3 – Application

The “chemical” part of the chemical peel is applied after your skin is prepped and you are comfortable. We apply the solution that is best for you (glycolic or salicylic acids) with a brush, gauze, or cotton ball. The treated areas of skin may feel warm, tingly, and itchy. For added comfort, we may incorporate cooling into your treatment. The peel is applied quickly, and your skin is monitored throughout treatment. The solution remains on your face for a few minutes to several minutes, depending on the peel’s potency and your skin’s sensitivity.

Step 4 – Neutralizing the peel

This step in the process involves applying a solution with a higher pH to stop the acid’s activity/chemical reaction. It also helps to return the skin to its natural pH balance, which supports healing. Some peels may not require external neutralizers as they are considered to be “self-neutralizing.” Depending on the specific peel, we may wash off the solution and clean the skin with cold water compresses. 

Step 5 – Post-treatment 

We gently pat the skin dry. To soothe the treated areas, we apply a nourishing lotion, cream, or ointment. You will also be provided with instructions on how to care for your skin as it heals. With lighter peels, red and scaly skin can be soothed with a lotion or cream, followed by SPF to protect your healing skin. For mid-strength peels, peeling may last for up to 14 days.

As your post-peel symptoms subside, you will notice improvements in your skin tone, texture, and overall quality. The first step to renewed skin starts with a consultation. Call (301) 479-6544 to schedule a consultation at the Fulton office of Eternal Dermatology & Aesthetic Center, which serves Baltimore, MD, and the surrounding area. 

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