Acid Peels

An acid peel is a gentle, no-downtime procedure to help with sunspots, skin tone and texture, acne, scarring and fine lines. This treatment is more subtle than IPL but less expensive.

$105/treatment
we recommend a series of 6 done every 2 weeks.
$525 Insurance may reimburse for acne.

What is a Fruit Acid or Chemical Peel?

These are quick in-office procedures with minimal downtime that can restore sun-damaged, wrinkled, blemished, acneic, scarred or blotchy skin to its original youthful appearance. The results are normally a smoother more even toned textured skin. The skin will look younger, tighter and fresher than before, although it cannot remove all facial flaws. Deeper lines, wrinkles and other flaws may require additional treatments or techniques.

What are the options for Chemical Peels?

There are three different levels of peels, from superficial to deep. These dermatology in-office peels are deeper than those done at home or by an esthetician, but still considered superficial peels with quick recovery time and minimal risks of adverse effects. These peels can be used not only on the face, but also on the neck, chest, arms, hands, etc.; anywhere you wish to rejuvenate or improve your skin.

Alphahydroxy Acid Peels:

These peels help with fine, superficial wrinkles, sun damage, unevenness, white and black heads, pimples and splotchiness. These peels can also improve dryness and dehydrated skin. They aren’t very invasive and provide mild resurfacing results. They produce a mild rejuvenation without the extended downtime of a more invasive peel. With a series of peels, studies have shown a regeneration of underlying sun damaged collagen, a decrease in pre-cancerous skin lesions and a mild antioxidant or photoprotective effect. 

Fruit Acids:

There are five main fruit acids: citric acids (citrus-derived), glycolic (derived from sugar cane), lactic acid (although derived from milk, this is still considered a "fruit acid"), malic (derived from apples) and tartaric (derived from grapes).

What should I expect post-operatively?

  • A mild sunburn-like sensation is expected. This usually lasts 2-4 hours, but can persist up to 72 hours, depending on the individual. Mild swelling and/or redness may accompany this, but it usually resolves in 2-3 days.
  • Make sure you have a gentle cleanser, SPF 30 sunblock and a quality moisturizer to use for several days after your peel. Once the skin looks and feels back to normal in a day or two, you can restart your glycolic, alpha-hydroxy acid, Retin-A or Differin creams. Wait a week before using any exfoliating scrubs.
  • If tender, apply ice or gel packs to the treated area for 10-15 minutes every hour for the next four hours, as needed. Although generally unnecessary, an oral, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be taken to reduce discomfort. Use according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • In rare cases, crusting or blistering may occur. An antibiotic ointment (Polysporin, Bacitracin) may be applied to the affected areas twice a day until healed. Please call and let us know if this or an outbreak of cold sores occurs.
  • Bathe or shower as usual. Treated areas may be temperature-sensitive. Cool showers or baths will offer relief. Avoid scrubbing and use of exfoliates, scrub brushes and loofa sponges until the skin has returned to its pre-treatment condition.
  • Until redness has completely resolved, avoid all of the following:
    1. Applying cosmetics to the treated areas.
    2. Swimming, especially in pools with chemicals, such as chlorine.
    3. Hot tubs and Jacuzzis
    4. Activities that cause excessive perspiration
    5. Sun exposure to the treated areas. Apply a sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater to prevent skin color change.
  • Do not pick, scratch or remove any scabs. Allow them to flake off on their own. Please keep all follow up appointments and do not hesitate to call our office if you have questions or concerns.

When will I be able to see the results?

You will start noticing pink fresh skin emerging from under the removed damaged skin within 24 to 48 hours. Your skin will feel softer; have more of a youthful glow and a more even texture. With multiple peels, we recommend a series of six peels, once every two weeks. You will notice less acne, reduced fine lines, lightened brown spots and less blotchiness of the skin.

Are the results permanent?

The results are permanent if you intend on taking care of your skin thereafter. If you continue to protect your skin from the sun, use a quality skin regimen daily, eat a good diet and exercise regularly, your skin will continue to display the results from your series of peels. Taking nutritional supplements, managing stress, abstaining from smoking or excessive alcohol and drinking an adequate amount of water can also ensure that your results last. Although you will continue to age, your wrinkles will be softened and your appearance made fresher from the peels. Many patients living in sunny climates will need maintenance peels every 3-6 months to help maintain the results of their peels.