No peeling after beta hydroxy chemical peel

I've had no peeling (no results) after having a beta lift chemical peel. Today is the 3rd day. Is this normal? I have oily/acne prone skin.

5 answers to “No peeling after beta hydroxy...”

A: Yes, peeling from salicylic acid peels is variable

Bryan K. Chen, MD

By "beta lift" I am assuming that you had a salicylic acid chemical peel.  Peeling is highly variable after salicylic acid peels in particular because it is such a light peel.  A lot of patients with oily complexions in particular tend to peel less than individuals with dry skin. ... more

A: Chemical Peels without the Peel - ok

Brenda Dintiman, MD

Although we do we call a salicyclic acid or beta hydroxy peel and glycolic acid peel a "peel," it is not necessary to see skin peeling for it to be effective.  The light chemical peels or lunch time peels are designed to have minimum to no downtime and may produce mild redness and some flaking... more

A: It is too soon to see any flaking

David Hansen, MD

The flaking after a beta peel comes about 5-7 days later. Because it is very mild, some patients don't see much flaking at all each time. That is why a series of 3-5 beta peels is usually needed. Be patient and plan on doing one every 2 weeks until you get the desired effect. Sincerely, Dr. David Hansen

A: The beta-lift chemical peel is one of my favorites for a light peel

Felix Kuo, MD

The Beta-Lift chemical peel is a salicylic acid peel and it comes it 2 strengths: 2/0 and 3/0.  These peels are classified as superficial peels and will not result in a lot of peeling.  If your intention is to control acne, these peels should work well.  Even if you do not get any peeling,... more

A: No visible peel can be quite normal

Mary Lupo, MD

Beta peels and other lunchtime peels may not cause a lot of visible peeling but will still help. The proof will be how your skin looks in 7-10 days. Your doctor can make adjustments in the second of your series (most people get 3-6 over 4-6 months). How the skin is prepped and the amount of acid applied are... more

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Comments

sschultz
25 posts
2 Jan 2009

I always disclose in the consultation prior to administering a chemical peel that "peel" does not necessarily mean your skin will visibly peel off, however, there will be superficial exfoliation of the stratum corneum allowing the chemical ingredients to better penetrate the skin. You should have sufficient home care products to ensure a better result. Return to your Skin Care Professional in 4 to 6 weeks for follow up and perhaps another treatment, and by all means, ASK QUESTIONS!

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