Are Peels Performed by Physicans and Estheticians the Same?

Question

I have had 2 Jessners Peel by a plastic surgeon with wonderful results. Recently, I had a 15% TCA peel by an esthetician and my skin did not turn brown, there was minimal peeling- mostly flakes that rolled off when I washed my face. There very minimal improvements. Isn't a TCA peel more aggressive than a Jessners peel even in lower concentrations? Is getting a 14% Jessners peel done by a doctor and then getting a 14% Jessners peel done by an esthetician. Is there any difference between the two?

Pablo Prichard, MD · Answer

There are many determining factors in strength and depth of peel. Often times you will be treated more aggressive when getting a peel from a doctor the first time then you would by an aesthetician. Most aestheticians will do a light to moderate peel the first time you are treated at their office and then as long as your skin reacts well will provide a deeper peel on following visits. Peels offer a variety of benefits ( even the lighter ones ) so I recommend continuing to do them, you have the right idea on mind.

Michael Bowman, MD · Answer

There are many different types of peels offered for patients trying to improve the appearance of their skin.  The multitude of options can be quite confusing.  To try and answer your question, a Jessner's peel can be safely performed by an aesthetician.  A given % grade peel should be the same regardless of who administers it.  

	Certain peels should only be performed by experienced physicians (not aestheticians).  Higher strength TCA and phenol/croton oil peels fall in this category.  These peels can give great results but can cause complications in the wrong hands.

	For all peels, the depth of the peel determines how dramatic the results will be.  The deeper the peel, the longer the recovery.  Your doctor should be able to tell you the expected recovery time.  For some medical grade (physician) peels, there will some time where you cannot use make up.  All peels require the use of sunscreen afterwards to prevent damage to the newly peeled skin.  In my practice in Alabama, I don't recommend deep facial peels in  the summer as the sun is just too strong.

	Discuss your concerns with your doctor to determine the best skin treatment regimen.

Are Peels Performed by Physicans and Estheticians the Same?

Answers (2)

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