The Benefits of Chemical Peels: Brighter, Smoother, Youthful skin

Is it time to add a little something extra to your skincare routine? MunkMD Dermatology Clinic has the perfect treatment to help you step up your skincare game: chemical peels. These treatments are fast and have a short downtime, making them perfect for a periodic boost to your regular skincare routine or as an extra measure when preparing for a big event.

What are chemical peels?

Chemical peels work by applying an acid solution that removes the outermost layer of skin. This sloughs off dead skin cells, clears follicles, and improves the appearance of large pores, age spots, sun damage, and fine lines and wrinkles. At MunkMD we provide 2 types of peels: glycolic or Jessner peels.

Glycolic peels consist of a mild Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) and target the outermost layer of skin. They are considered superficial peels and are the gentler of the two options we provide. Glycolic peels are used in the treatment and prevention of acne because they unblock follicles and get rid of unhealthy and dead skin cells. They also help tighten the skin, treat fine lines, and improve skin texture.

Jessner peels are medium-depth peels and are made of 3 main ingredients: lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol. These elements assist in the exfoliation of the skin, penetration of the product, and in treating acne. Jessner peels are used to treat hyperpigmentation due to sun damage, and to improve skin texture, melasma, and wrinkles.

Depending on your skin concerns and your skin type, Dr. Munk and his team of skincare experts will advise you on the best peel option for you!

Who can get chemical peels?

Chemical peels are suitable for most people and can be used once or as part of a maintenance program. Best results are achieved when combining a peel with a good skincare routine.

Contraindications for chemicals peels are pregnancy or breastfeeding, lesions in the area you want to treat, using Accutane (must be 1 year off the treatment), or recent hair removal. Sun exposure after the treatment is also not recommended. It’s important to protect your skin from the sun post-treatment by wearing a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen and covering clothing. If you have particularly sensitive skin a patch test may be recommended before performing the peel.

What is the treatment like?

This treatment takes approximately 30 minutes. Before the treatment, your face (or other treatment areas such as the back or chest) is thoroughly cleansed. Once the peel solution is applied, it is left on for a couple minutes and then removed and a lightweight moisturizer or a calming mask is applied. That’s it – it’s super simple!

Everyone heals differently, and downtime depends on your skin type and condition as well as the peel and concentration used. In general the downtime after chemical peels ranges from 1-2 days for a milder peel and 2-4 days for a more in-depth peel. During this time you can expect redness, dryness, skin peeling and shedding, and mild itching or discomfort. You will be advised on after-care during your appointment.

Once the dead skin sloughs off you are left with glowing, refreshed skin!

If you want to schedule your personal consultation and find out if chemical peels can help you rejuvenate your skin, fill out our online form here or call the clinic at 514-937-2757.

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