Chemical Peels

Chemical Peel FAQs at Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center

• Who can benefit from medical-grade chemical peels?

  People with fair skin and light hair are the best candidates for a medical peel. Still, patients with other skin pigmentation and hair color can achieve good results with an experienced, qualified practitioner. If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your skin, don’t smoke, and have realistic expectations of what can be achieved, then a medical-grade peel could be an excellent option.‍

• What are some things to consider before a chemical peel?

  If you’re considering medical-grade peels, it’s recommended that you don’t smoke for a few weeks before and after your treatment. If you’re taking medication for acne, such as Accutane®, consider an alternative treatment type, as the chemicals can hamper the facial peel process. If you have active skin infections and large or unusual scar formations, one of the qualified BHRC practitioners may recommend an alternative treatment for you. Finally, if you have a family history of heart problems, the medical-grade peel treatment may not be suitable.‍ Consult your doctor for further information.

• What chemical peel is the strongest?

  There are many different types of chemical peels, and the strength of the peel depends on the kind of acid used. The most common acids used in chemical peels are glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, and trichloroacetic acid. Glycolic acid is the weakest of these acids, while trichloroacetic acid is the strongest. However, even the most potent chemical peel will only penetrate the top layer of the skin, so it is essential to consult a dermatologist to determine which peel is suitable for your needs.

• How often can I get a chemical peel?

  Very superficial to deep treatments can be performed every two weeks, while more aggressive ones need a more extended waiting period. However, this will depend on your unique skin type and condition that you are trying to fix; there is no one-size-fits-all solution because it will vary by how severe the damage or issue with tolerability, for example–so talk about goals with a medical professional, in order create recommendations specific enough. Hence, do not irritate anyone’s sensitive regions!

• What makes a peel medical-grade?

  If a chemical peel is acquired through a compounding pharmacy by a licensed physician, it is medical grade. Chemical peels come in a variety of strengths and combinations. It is essential to seek the guidance of a professional in a medical environment to achieve the desired results and avoid severe complications.

• Who should not use chemical peels?

  A chemical peel isn’t for everyone. Your doctor might caution against a chemical peel or certain types of chemical peels if you:

  • Have taken the oral acne medication isotretinoin (Myorisan, Claravis, others) in the past six months
  • Have a personal or family history of ridged areas caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue (keloids)
  • Are pregnant
  • Have frequent or severe outbreaks of cold sores
• What should I do before getting a chemical peel?

  Before your peel, you might also need to:

  • Take antiviral medication. Your doctor might prescribe an antiviral medication before and after treatment to help prevent a viral infection.
  • Use a retinoid cream. Your doctor might recommend using a retinoid cream, such as tretinoin (Renova, Retin-A), for a few weeks before treatment to help heal.
  • Use a bleaching agent. Your doctor might recommend using a bleaching agent (hydroquinone), a retinoid cream, or both before or after the procedure to reduce the risk of side effects.
  • Avoid unprotected sun exposure. Too much sun exposure before the procedure can cause permanent irregular pigmentation in treated areas. Discuss sun protection and acceptable sun exposure with your doctor.
  • Avoid specific cosmetic treatments and certain types of hair removal. About a week before the peel, stop using hair removal techniques such as electrolysis or depilatories. Also, avoid hair-dying treatments, permanent-wave or hair-straightening treatments, facial masks, or scrubs in the week before your peel. Don’t shave the areas that will be treated beginning 24 hours before your peel.
  • Arrange for a ride home. If you are sedated during the procedure, arrange for a ride home.