Chemical Peels
The use of acidic agents has been used for generations as a way of causing the top layer of skin to essentially exfoliate with subsequent peeling, and than be replaced with new rejuvenated skin. Today the chemical agents used for chemical peels have been refined to provide superior and safe results. At Ancaster Dermatology, we most commonly use Glycolic acid and the Skin Tx® Jessner Plus™ peels.
Would you like to learn more about improving your skin with a chemical peel? Please call Ancaster Dermatology Centre at (905) 304-1122 to schedule a consultation.
Is a Chemical Peel right for your skin?
Typically chemical peels are used to improve the appearance of skin on the face, neck and hands caused by mild wrinkles, and dark pigmentation (sun spots, freckles or age spots). Sun damage may also be improved following the procedure. Chemical peels are also used to improve the appearance of some types of acne scarring, particularly for widespread areas on upper back and shoulders. If you are light skinned and fair haired, you are good candidate for a successful chemical peel.
Types of Chemical Peels
Glycolic Acid Peels
Glycolic Acid peels are the mildest form of chemical peels, which exfoliate the surface layer of skin to expose the fresher, younger-looking skin beneath, Glycolic peels are often preferred for minor skin conditions such as roughness, dryness, sun damage, minor acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, melasma and sun freckles.
Patients should discontinue their use of topical retinoic or Vitamin A creams 5 days prior to procedure. Concentrations of 50–70% glycolic acid are applied to the skin after an alcohol cleansing. Treatments take only 15–20 minutes leaving the skin feeling refreshed. Post peel a slight pink colouration resolves within minutes, up to 24 hours. Occasionally some flaking or slight crusting may occur for a few days. Sunscreen must be worn to protect the newly exposed layer of skin.
Some results are visible immediately, but a series of 4–5 peels done one month apart are necessary for full effect.
The Skin Tx® TX Jessner Plus™ Peel
The Jessner Plus™ peel is a slightly stronger, safe self neutralizing peel that contains 14% Resorcinol, 14% Lactic Acid, 14% Salicylic Acid, Peptides and Panthenol. Patients who have this peel experience some dryness and peeling for up to 5 days post peel. The treatment takes only minutes and generally 2 peels are required about 8 -12 weeks apart. This peel is an excellent option for pigmentation, acne prone skin, sun damage, fine lines, wrinkes, and melasma. Patients should discontinue their use of topical retinoic or Vitamin A creams 5 days prior to procedure.
