Chemical Peel in Portsmouth, NH
Brighten and smooth your skin with a chemical peel customized to your skin concerns.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a skin resurfacing procedure that uses a chemical solution to improve the texture and tone of facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. The solution causes a controlled wounding of tissues, allowing new skin to replace the damaged one. Chemical peels are usually performed on the face and take 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the type. The results of this procedure are visible within 1 to 2 weeks as the skin heals from the mild injury.
Types of Chemical Peels
Superficial Chemical Peels
Superficial chemical peels are the mildest type. They use a weak acid solution (glycolic, lactic, citric, and mandelic acid) that only penetrates the outer layer of skin, the epidermis. Superficial peels promote exfoliation and remove damaged cells. They treat mild skin irregularities like fine lines, uneven pigmentation, and rough skin texture. Recovery time is minimal to none.
Medium-Depth Peels
Medium-depth chemical peels use a stronger solution (trichloroacetic acid) to penetrate the epidermis and into the upper part of the dermis (middle layer). They remove damaged cells and stimulate collagen production, leading to smoother skin. Medium-depth peels treat moderate issues, such as uneven pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, and superficial facial scars. The recovery time is usually several days. This procedure is also known as TCA peel.
Deep Peels
Deep chemical peels use a strong acid solution (phenol) that penetrates deep into the middle layer of the skin. They remove extensive skin damage by promoting wound healing and collagen production. A deep peel can effectively treat photoaging, significant wrinkles, precancerous growths, and severe acne scarring. However, this procedure requires a lengthy recovery time of several weeks with extensive peeling and swelling.
Consultation & Preparation for Chemical Peel
Before receiving a chemical peel, a consultation is required to determine if this treatment is appropriate for the patient’s skin type, medical history, and conditions they wish to address. During the appointment, our naturopathic doctor:
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learns about any medications or skin care products currently used
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analyzes the skin to determine peel depth and solution
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explains how to properly care for the skin after the procedure
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conducts a patch test (in some cases) to see if the patient has any allergic reactions to the ingredients in the peel solution
In the weeks before the appointment, patients may be instructed to stop using certain acne medications, retinoids, or alpha-hydroxy acid products, which can increase skin sensitivity. Proper preparation helps to ensure optimal results from the chemical peel.
Chemical Peel Procedure
Preparation
The face is thoroughly cleaned to remove oils, makeup, or lotions. Eye protection may be provided. The skin is assessed to determine the proper peel solution and depth.
Application
The doctor applies the chemical solution using a brush, cotton pads, or gauze. Light coats are placed slowly and evenly across the treatment areas. For deeper peels, several coats may be applied over 15-30 minutes to achieve desired penetration. Stinging or burning might occur during this process.
Setting
Once applied, the peel solution sits on the skin anywhere from a few seconds for light peels to an hour for deeper peels. During this time, chemical exfoliation of the outer layers occurs. The skin begins to change color and becomes raw. The doctor monitors for uniform whitening and determines the ideal set time based on the patient’s tolerance.
Neutralization
For medium and deeper peels, we neutralize the solution after the determined time using water, sodium bicarbonate, or another deactivation agent to stop the acid from penetrating further. The area is rinsed thoroughly. No neutralization is required for light peels.
Moisturizing
Once drying is complete, a healing balm or ointment is applied to soothe, moisturize, and protect the treated skin. Additional home care products may be provided.
Recovery After Chemical Peel
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Superficial peels do not require significant downtime
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Medium-depth peels take up to 1 week
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Deep skin peels require up to 21 days
Candidates for Chemical Peel
Benefits of Chemical Peel
Chemical peels offer many benefits that make them a popular cosmetic treatment. They can significantly improve common skin concerns and make patients satisfied with their appearance. More specifically, chemical peels provide the following benefits:
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Remove the outer layer of dead skin cells
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Eliminate acne scars
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Minimize enlarged pores
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Remove brown blotches caused by sun damage
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Improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
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Stimulate collagen production for firmer and more youthful skin
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Work on all skin types
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Involve a wide range of chemical solutions
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Are gentler than mechanical exfoliation with scrubs and other tools
Cost of Chemical Peels in Portsmouth, NH
The cost of chemical peels in Portsmouth starts at $350. The price can vary significantly depending on the peel type, penetration depth, and additional skincare products. For instance, a superficial procedure using alpha-hydroxy acids is typically less expensive than a deep peel with phenol. It is essential to consult with our doctor to determine the best option for the patient’s skin concerns and get an accurate price quote.
What Makes Our Med Spa Different From Others?
