Having smooth and radiant skin is a desirable trait. It helps us look younger and feel better about our overall aesthetics.

However, as we age, wrinkles, age spots and dull or rough skin can begin to take over our once youthful appearance. When the skin becomes susceptible to premature aging, a chemical peel can help alleviate the symptoms. At Destination Aesthetics, we provide peels crafted by SkinMedica® and OBAGI® – two skin-care companies whose prescription-strength products are formulated to rejuvenate the skin and help reverse the natural aging process.

What Is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is an exfoliation technique designed to penetrate below the surface of the skin in order to regenerate skin on the face, neck or hands. Exfoliation occurs using a chemical that causes layers of skin to blister and eventually peel off. The skin that remains is smoother, softer and healthier. Many people choose to receive a chemical peel because of how quickly it can be performed as well as its ability to effectively reduce many skin conditions.

A chemical peel can typically treat:

  • Sun damage and age spots
  • Mild to moderate acne scarring
  • Lines and wrinkles around the eyes and mouth
  • The appearance of freckles

Many chemical peels exist that penetrate the skin at varying levels of intensity. Usually, those who have never received a chemical peel will begin the process with a superficial peel using mild acid. Once the skin adjusts to the acidic qualities of the peel and heals fully, stronger peels can be used to treat the skin. Chemical peels work best for those who have mild to moderate skin conditions and will be least effective on individuals with heavy bulges or severe wrinkles.

SkinMedica® and OBAGI® Peels

At Destination Aesthetics, we offer five different peels for varying degrees of skin imperfection. Both SkinMedica® and OBAGI® peels are clinically proven to correct many of the skin conditions that accelerate the aging process and use specific formulations to restore your appearance.

SkinMedica Illuminize Peel®: A chemical peel advised for individuals with mild skin imperfections like fine lines or slight sun damage.

SkinMedica Vitalize Peel®: A mild to moderate chemical peel that reduces the same imperfections as the Illuminize Peel®, but also treats acne scarring and skin discoloration.

SkinMedica Rejuvenize Peel™: A peel recommended for those with moderate to severe skin imperfections that produces noticeable results just after one session.

OBAGI Blue Peel RADIANCE®: A salicylic acid peel designed for those who have experience receiving chemical peels and who wish to achieve tighter and smoother skin.

OBAGI Blue Peel®: An aggressive chemical peel that uses trichloroacetic acid to regenerate skin cells and promote a more even tone and texture.

What Happens Before, During and After a Peel?

If you wish to receive a chemical peel, it is vital that you discuss your cosmetic concerns with a member of the Destination Aesthetics team. We will be able to determine the chemical that will work best for your skin type and schedule a time for you to perform the procedure. During the chemical peel session, the skin on your face will be cleaned with a de-greasing solution, after which one or more chemicals will be applied to the skin. Typically, those who undergo a chemical peel feel a burning and stinging sensation that will subside after a few minutes. Once the acid is wiped off of the face, a cool compress will be applied to help soothe the skin.

Depending on the chemical peel that you receive, you may have a shorter or longer recovery period. Redness will occur once the procedure begins, which is a completely normal reaction, and within the first 24 to 48 hours after the peel, the skin will begin to tighten and flake — the peeling should last no more than seven days. More mild peels can be administered regularly, while more aggressive chemical peels may take longer before they can be repeated. While recovering at home, you may use cleansing and moisturizing solutions to soothe the skin, which will be suggested to you by Destination Aesthetics.

Is a Chemical Peel Right for You?

At Destination Aesthetics, we understand that every individual has different skin, which is why we perform an evaluation on your skin before performing a chemical peel. We recommend scheduling a consultation with us to learn more about the chemical peels we provide as well as their separate benefits. During your consultation, it is important that you make us aware of any underlying medical conditions that you have, as a chemical peel may create an averse reaction in certain individuals. Clients with infections, broken skin, cold sores or any other active skin disease may not be an ideal candidate for a chemical peel.

The best way to learn about whether one of our many chemical peels is right for you is to contact Destination Aesthetics and schedule a consultation. We look forward to working with you to enhance your skin and help you look more youthful.