Hi, I have been researching types of chemical peels, but I am confused about some things: Once you have a peel done, how long does it last? Does this vary by type? When they say 'recovery period' , i.e. 7 days, does that mean you have to stay in for 7 days? Thanks.
How Long Does a Chemical Peel Last?
Doctor Answers 16
Chemical peels are usually divided into superficial, medium, and deep peels. Medium peels, using combinations of acids, such as trichloroacetic acid and Jessner's solution, among others, penetrate to the dermis and are effective for improving mild to moderate photodamage and wrinkling.
Healing generally takes about 7-10 days and is accompanied by some oozing, scabs and crusts. The results may last for at least a year or more and with continued sun protection far longer.
Deep peels, no longer commonly performed, involve the application of strong acids, such as phenol along with certain penetration enhancers. As the name implies, the peeling solution is intended to penetrate the skin more deeply, and is therefore useful for improving moderate to deep wrinkling, crinkling, discoloration and laxity.
A true, burn-like wound is created and healing make take up to two weeks, although there is a risk for scarring and permanent loss of skin pigmentation. The results may last for years.
Superficial Peels, on the other hand, such as those performed with alpha hydroxyacids, commonly glycolic acid, are quite popular for refreshing, smoothing and brightening dull, sallow skin and evening out blotchy, irregular skin pigmentation.
In my experience, an initial series of four to six or more peels of this sort, performed at monthly intervals, is wonderful for dealing with fine wrinkles, crinkles, discolorations, and photodamage.
Once the series is over, maintenance treatments can be scheduled as needed. I like to refer to these treatments as "fruit washes" because the material used was originally naturally derived. There is generally no downtime. Patients can come during a lunchbreak and expect to return immediately to work with brighter skin. For this reason they are frequently referred to as "lunchtime beauty fixes."
Web reference: http://www.youngerlookingwithoutsurgery.com
Hello,
The down time for a peel varies quite a bit. Light chemical peels have essentially no downtime but do not change things much. Heavier peels make you look like your face is a mummy's face for a week or so. The results last depending upon how deeply the skin was treated. Light peel results last a few weeks. Deeper peels last months to years.
It is good to ask yourself what are the goals you seek for your skin. If it just signs of aging, a bland complexion, or light acne, then very superficial to superficial peels plus a strong home regimen is worthwhile. There is almost no recovery with these. If there are heavy lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation and you want your face back, then you would want to take the time for preparation seeking a deeper peel, and some recovery of up to 2 weeks, plus a maintenance regimen. Chemical peels have rebounded in the past 8 years, with advanced knowledge and diversity in peeling solutions and application for many skin types. A photo and why is important in answering your completely most completely. It is my resurfacing procedure of choice for practically all skin types and skin problems. Best regards for this question.
You might also like...
Chemical Peel Pictures
Photos from the community
Depending on the depth, a chemical peel will last from 3-5 years. If it is a deeper peel, it will last longer.
Chemical peels can be used to get rid of acne, as well as scarring. They remove the top layers of the skin, where the most dead skin cells are and prevent pored from getting clogged. Most peels deliver results within two weeks. Chemical peels can last for about 2 months. The recovery period is probably referring to the time before the results are seen. However if you are younger I would look into an facial, if you go to a good place a facial will do the trick, and many plastic and cosmetic surgeons offer them.
Chemical peels rejuvenate the skin and provide a simple way to exfoliate and remove sun damage and fine lines. Depending on the strength of the peel, you can be dry for a few days to a week. Some patients prefer to have Clear and Brilliant in my office, which is a "mini- Fraxel" because you can have similar results without any down time. Please consult an expert in cosmetic dermatology for the best results.
Chemical peels safely remove or exfoliate the top layer of dead skin, allowing new, more youthful, healthy skin to show through. While the skin typically sheds old, dull dead skin cells every 28 days, this process slows down with prolonged sun exposure and aging.
Chemical peels cause this natural cell turnover process to speed up, helping to stimulate the growth of new collagen—the skin-firming protein that acts like a scaffold for the skin. The speed or depth of cell turnover is determined by the concentration of the peel and the amount of time it’s left on skin.
Chemical peels can be done at different depths—light, medium, or deep—depending on your desired results. Deeper chemical peels produce more-dramatic results, but also involve longer recovery times.
My patients usually come in for peels every 4-6 weeks and in the "recovery time" you do not need to stay inside, your skin is just more sensitive so be sure to use SPF and keep out of the sun.
Chemical peels cause this natural cell turnover process to speed up, helping to stimulate the growth of new collagen—the skin-firming protein that acts like a scaffold for the skin. The speed or depth of cell turnover is determined by the concentration of the peel and the amount of time it’s left on skin.
Chemical peels can be done at different depths—light, medium, or deep—depending on your desired results. Deeper chemical peels produce more-dramatic results, but also involve longer recovery times.
My patients usually come in for peels every 4-6 weeks and in the "recovery time" you do not need to stay inside, your skin is just more sensitive so be sure to use SPF and keep out of the sun.
Web reference: http://www.dennisgrossmd.com/services/treatment/chemical-peels/
The duration of the peel and the effectiveness of the peel vary considerably based on the peel utilized. Light Peels generally last no more than a month. More aggressive peels will last for a year or more. The post treatment measures will vary on the type of peel.
Web reference: http://www.drkrisreddy.com/Chemical_Peel_West_Palm_Beach.html
The type of chemical peel chosen for your skin depends on the underlying condition being treated and your skin type. The depth of the peel chosen depends on these things, location, and the amount of "down time" the patient is able to have. Lighter peels are chosen with the understanding that the desired results may be acheived after a series of peels, instead of one. This is done if the patient is not able to have a long "recovery" period. The "recovery" time, or period of time when the top layer of skin sloughs off and the new skin is forming, varies on the type of peel used and the patient's skin. For example, some patients with very oily skin may see less peeling that others. A good rule of thumb is, the deeper the peel, the more damage done to the surface of the skin- the longer the recovery period- the longer the results
Typically, the longer it takes you to heal the better result you will get. The ones performed by physicians are medium to deep peels, ask to see some pictures of the recovery process.
These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.
You might also like...
Related Content
Chemical Peel Recovery Time
39 doctor answers
How Often Chemical Peel to Maintain the Results?
20 doctor answers
How Long Before You See Final Results from Glycolic Peel?
7 doctor answers
Ask a Doctor
Get personalized answers from board-certified doctors. For free.
Chemical Peel Pictures
Photos from the community
