Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are the application of exfoliating acids to the skin which breaks down the bonds between dead or damaged cells. This triggers the skin’s natural repair process, encouraging cell turnover and collagen production from within. Treatments are usually less than 30 minutes, unless combined with a relaxing facial treatment! Peels are generally well-tolerated, but we always give our patients a fan in case things start to feel spicy.

To get real results, your skin needs to be properly prepped. We start with lighter peels and gradually build intensity using customized formulas like IMAGE, TCA, and Jessner’s, all tailored to your skin and goals.

We boast a variety of chemical peels for truly customized treatments. Our series’ can help with:

• Acne and congestion

• Uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, and melasma

• Sun damage and age spots

• Dull, sluggish skin in need of rejuvenation

• Fine lines, large pores, and other textural concernsTo get real results, your skin needs to be properly prepped. We start with lighter peels and gradually build intensity using customized formulas like IMAGE, TCA, and Jessner’s, all tailored to your skin and goals.

Once we confirm that you’re a good candidate for a chemical peel, we’ll provide instructions about preparing for your treatment so your skin is ready for the peel process.

You’ll need to temporarily avoid using exfoliating products and avoid scheduling exfoliating treatments at least one week before your appointment to prepare your skin and ensure it responds well to your chosen peel. You’ll also need to drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated, avoid excess sun exposure, and avoid shaving or waxing your skin pre-treatment.

Chemical peels are not for everyone. We will determine your candidacy at your consultation, and you can discuss any concerns with Dr. Julie Morales. However, you may not be a candidate for chemical peels if you:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding

• The use of Isotretinoin in the last 12 months (Accutane, Absorbica, etc)

• Current use of Hydrocortisone on the treatment area

• Active infections on the treatment area, including cold sores, eczema, psoriasis, warts, and acne

• Keloidal tendencies

• Sunburn, windburn, or other irritation and inflammation (day of appointment)

• Botox or filler within 5 days before the appointment

• Recent exfoliating procedure such as laser or microneedling

• Auto-immune suppressed patients, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or diabetic

• Habit of skin picking

• History of extremely reactive skin, allergies, known sensitivities to certain ingredients

• Rosacea flare-up

• History of radiation to the area

There’s no significant downtime after a chemical peel. Patients who undergo treatment with a light or medium-depth peel can resume most of their normal daily activities after the treatment. Patients who undergo a deep peel must plan around some downtime as their skin heals. While the duration and severity of side effects depend on the specific peel received, normal side effects after chemical peels include the following:

• Redness

• Scabbing

• Peeling

• Swelling

• Sensitivity to light

You will need to follow some aftercare instructions after your treatment to ensure the best results. This includes avoiding sun exposure, exfoliating treatments, harsh products, and anything that could irritate your skin or make it more susceptible to inflammation or delay healing. Prioritizing gentle moisturizer and daily sunscreen will help prevent skin discoloration and further damage and allow the skin to heal.

You can expect some immediate results after your chemical peel, and the best results will be visible within the first seven to 10 days. You’ll see continuously improving results as your skin heals and your body increases natural collagen and elastin production in response to the treatment.

Patients can expect visible results from just one chemical peel, but these treatments are meant to be scheduled as monthly or bi-monthly maintenance treatments to keep your skin in the best condition year-round. We can give you details about how to space out your treatment to maintain healthy, glowing skin and prevent the dead skin cell barrier from building up and causing a dull complexion.

While chemical peels are considered an anti-aging treatment, they are equally beneficial for those in their 20s or 30s. During this time, the body’s collagen production starts to slow down, so it’s normal to start seeing fine lines, dullness, or uneven texture. Here is how chemical peels can enhance your skin during this stage of life:

• Prevent Premature Aging: The best way to maintain youthful skin is prevention. By having regular chemical peels, this can help to combat the natural progression of aging, including the effects of environmental stressors like pollution and UV exposure.

• Manage Acne and Breakouts: Hormonal changes during your 20s and 30s can lead to breakouts. Our glycolic acid peels work wonders in treating mild to moderate acne.

• Reverse Sun Damage: No matter how much we try and protect our skin from the sun, damage from the sun is inevitable. Chemical peels help to remove those effects from too much sun exposure, such as uneven pigmentation, wrinkles, and damage.

• Even out Skin Tone: Our skin tends to change as we age, and where it used to be flawless, it just doesn’t look the same. When chemical peels remove the top layer of dead skin cells that accumulate over time, the fresh and radiant skin beneath is revealed. Say hello to a healthy glow!

Yes, patients with darker skin can receive a chemical peel treatment. However, it is essential to choose the right type of chemical peel for dark skin to promote skin health. At Phoenix MedSpa, we specialize in treatments for melanin-rich skin and offer options for those who have not found success with other treatment plans from other practices.

The effects of chemical peels can last for several weeks or more, depending on your skin type, the type of chemical peel, your aftercare routine, and how often you schedule treatments. Deeper chemical peels will last longer, while light chemical peels are more suitable for regular application. To maintain the results, regular treatments and a proper skincare regimen are recommended. 

For the safest treatments and highest-impact results, chemical peels must start gently and build intensity. For this reason, we sell a bundle of four peels - one from each level of intensity.

*Individually priced peels are options, but we recommend a consultation prior to ensure it is a safe option for your skin.