Chemical Peels

Another method of exfoliating and rejuvenating the skin, a chemical peel, is the application of an acid, such as glycolic, salicylic, lactic, or combination of acids, to induce a controlled burn and a subsequent “peeling” of the skin, similar to a moderate sunburn. Different acids accomplish different results; see more details for glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acid treatments below

Chemical peels have not had fair press over the years – most people have heard the worse case scenarios and usually it is after a very deep peel performed by a doctor. The peels we are speaking of here are considered “superficial” with little to no downtime. Although we have given basic guidelines for each peel, please understand that since every person and skin condition is different, you may need less or more treatments to obtain your desired results. Because of this, it is very important to have a consultation with a clinician prior to performing any type of peel treatment.

Please call 240-482-2555 for a complimentary consultation with one of our medical skincare specialists.

Glycolic acid (Glytone™ or Micropeel™)

Glycolic acid (Glytone™ or Micropeel™) is a water-soluble acid derived from sugar. With one of the smallest molecules, this acid penetrates the skin quickly and helps break up the intercellular cement that bonds skin cells together so that the dead and damaged skin can break free. This method may produce a mild burning or tingling sensation. You can find glycolic acid in lower concentrations in a number of daily-use skin care products.  Glycolic acid treatments are appropriate for most individuals and skin conditions and are effective in rejuvenation and slowing the aging process.

For maximum results, glycolic peels start with a low concentration (20 or 30%) and increase with each subsequent treatment (i.e., 20-30%, 30-40%, 40-50%).  We recommend starting with a series of six peels spaced two to four weeks apart.

Salicylic acid (Micro Peel Plus™)

Salicylic acid (Micro Peel Plus™) is an oil-soluble acid derived from birch bark, willow bark, or wintergreen leaves.  This acid primarily breaks up oil and is used in low concentrations in a number of acne products on the market.  Skin plagued by acne and acne scars may benefit most from higher concentrations of salicylic acid peels, but photo- or sun-damaged skin also responds well to this treatment.

Salicylic acid peels generally come in two concentrations; treatments do not increase these concentrations, but rather add additional layers of the peel.  Salicylic acid also neutralizes itself, reducing the possibility of damage.  We recommend a series of six peels, three to four weeks apart. Please note, this acid contains an ingredient similar to aspirin. Individuals with allergies to aspirin should avoid this type of acid treatment.

Lactic acid (a/k/a Micropeel™)

Lactic acid (a/k/a Micropeel™) is derived from milk. With one of the largest molecules, lactic acid penetrates the skin very slowly and produces very little burning sensation. Clinicians perform lactic acid peels mostly on sensitive or mature skin to assist in boosting hydration levels as well as improving the texture and tone of the skin. Lactic acid peels come in varying strengths and may or may not be increased at each appointment. We recommend a series of six peels, two weeks apart.

Vitalize Peel™

Vitalize Peel™ This peel is a combination of lactic acid, salicylic acid and resorcinol with an added layer of liquid retinoic acid. This mixture makes for a powerful yet well-tolerated peel with little downtime. This type of peel is primarily used for sun-damaged and hyper pigmented skin, but also works well for premature aging and acneic skin. Because this peel is more powerful, fewer treatments are usually necessary. We recommend a series of three to six peels, three to four weeks apart.