Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is a skin-resurfacing cosmetic treatment in which a chemical solution is applied to the face, removing the top layer of skin to reveal a smoother, younger-looking complexion. Chemical peel benefits include:

• A brighter skin tone
• A reduction in visible signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles
• Improved skin texture and clarity
• A reduction of sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and melasma

When you book at OVME, your chemical peel results will be nothing short of spectacular.

The acids used in a chemical peel (different types of alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids) trigger your body’s healing response and cause the older, outer layer of skin to flake off and newer, healthier skin to regenerate.

Just about anyone can benefit from chemical peels at OVME! The products we use are safe for all skin types—including darker tones. Those with hyperpigmentation, acne scars, wrinkles, and fine lines can all benefit from chemical peels.

How much do chemical peels cost? It depends on various factors, including your location and the level or type of peel you choose. However, the best chemical peel is not going to be the least expensive—you get what you pay for, and clients should be wary of those offering treatments at below-market price points.

A peel can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes depending on the level selected.

Microdermabrasion vs. chemical peel: While both work well for minor or superficial skin conditions, chemical peels are the better option for more severe skin concerns such as scarring and deeper lines/wrinkles. In terms of time, the treatments are pretty comparable. Recovery time, however, may be longer for Levels 2-3 of skin peels.

Chemical peels get a bit of a bad reputation, but today’s formulations are virtually painless and cause little discomfort—if any. The products we use are buffered and contain anti-irritants, so you should not feel any pain during your treatment. After a chemical peel, side effects may include itching, peeling, and redness depending on the level of your peel.

Skin peel results will be visible about one week after treatment. Over time and after multiple peels, you will continue to see improvements in your complexion. When you look at chemical peel before and after photos, you’ll see a noticeable difference in skin tone, texture, and clarity.

After a chemical (and every day, for that matter!) you will want to avoid sun exposure and getting a sunburn as your skin will be extra sensitive. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ and be sure to apply generously and also reapply throughout the day.

Chemical peels get rid of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating cell regrowth, which reveals newer and younger-looking skin. This treatment can also address:

• fine lines under eyes
• fine lines around mouth
• fine lines on forehead

If you’re wondering how to get rid of pimple scars, chemical peels are a great acne scar treatment. While there is no “quick fix” to getting rid of acne scars, chemical peels can reduce the appearance of scarring and discoloration over time and with multiple treatments.

Chemical Peel Post Treatment Care Instructions

Immediately After Your Treatment

• Treated skin may feel tight be more red than usual for 2 to 3 days. Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating during this time.
• Skin may feel tacky and have a yellow tinge. This is temporary and will fade in a few hours. (Level 2 and Level 3 Peels only).
• Whenever possible, wait until the next morning to cleanse your skin. If there is need to cleanse earlier, wait at least 4-6 hours for best results.
• Depending on the peel treatment you received there may be a solution that remains on your skin immediately after your treatment. It’s important to avoid extreme heat, (like a hot car or heater vents in the car), sweating, exposure to rain, or any activity that could cause the solution to become mobile/migrate.
• It is imperative to use sunscreen daily. If you have any hypersensitivity to the sun, take extra precautions to protect skin as you may be more sensitive post-peel.

Caring For Your Skin After Treatment

• Starting in the morning the next day, use a very gentle cleanser and tepid water to clean the skin. Pat dry. Apply a gentle moisturizer and SPF after cleansing.
• For the first 48 hours/before the skin starts to peel or flake, moisturizer can be applied twice a day. When the skin is peeling, moisturizer should be reapplied more frequently to control the peeling.
• Peeling will generally start between 48-72 hours after the procedure and can last 2 to 7 days.

Cautions

• Avoid picking, pulling, balling-up, rolling-off or otherwise exfoliating the peeling skin. Premature peeling of the skin will result in dry, cracked, raw skin that may develop into post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or scarring.
• Avoid scrubs, washcloths, or use of a cleansing brush (e.g., Clarisonic) or other cleansing devices.
• Avoid intense, intentional, or direct sunlight and/or heat for at least 4-6 weeks.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and sweat-inducing activities starting the day of the treatment and while the skin is peeling.
• Avoid using retinol, Retin-A products, alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), Beta Hydroxy (BHA), other exfoliating products or bleaching creams for at least one week. These can be resumed ONLY after the peeling process is completed and the skin is no longer sensitive.
• Avoid procedures including facials, microdermabrasions, waxing, laser hair removal, etc. until peeling has completed. At least two weeks is recommended.

Contact your local OVME studio immediately if you experience reactions such as:

• Moderate-to-severe swelling, burning or redness that does not subside or resolve after applying moisturizer
• Rash-like skin appearance
• Pain

Schedule the next appointment

Peels can be repeated every 3-4 weeks until desired results are achieved. Results are cumulative and maximum benefits are seen with a series of 3-6 or more peels.

7 Day Post Peel Daily Skincare Regimen Example

Recommended moisturizers:

SKINMEDICA® Replenish Hydrating Cream, SKINMEDICA® Ceramide Treatment Cream, or SKINMEDICA® Ultra Sheer Moisturizer, all available at your OVME studio.

Your provider can also recommend other approved moisturizers available over the counter, such as Cereve Moisturizing Cream, La Roche Posay TOLERIANE Ultra Moisturizing Cream, or Vanicream Moisturizing Cream Fragrance Free.