Facial peels have been used to rejuvenate the skin for thousands of years. Instead of milk and wine used in ancient times, today solutions such as glycolic acid (AHA) or retinoic preparations are applied to the skin in varying concentrations to remove the damaged outer layers of skin. It will be replaced by new, healthier, more youthful looking skin. Research shows the Alpha Hydroxy Acid stimulates collagen and elastin in the deeper layers of the skin. This will result in firmer appearance to the skin and the reduction of fine lines. Peels are administered in a series in order to achieve the desired amount of correction, and are most often used in conjunction with specific medical skin care preparations for targeted cosmetic concerns. Peels may be your treatment of choice over more aggressive skin rejuvenation treatments for specific reasons, including budgetary concerns or any existing condition that may preclude the use of other technologies. This is also a treatment used when sun damage is minimal such as may be found in younger patients.

Peels are used for varying degrees of correction in the following:

• Dull, uneven skin tone
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Hyperpigmentation
• Acne
• Enlarged pores
• Rough texture

Following a series of peels, you can expect softer, more youthful looking skin, more even skin tone, softening of fine lines and varying degrees of improvement in pigmentary problems. Glycolic Peels are most effective used in combination with topical skin care products or with skin exfoliating procedures such as SilkPeel Microdermabrasion. Because they require no recovery time, Glycolic Peels are sometimes referred to as the "lunchtime peel". You may experience a slight redness and light peeling with this procedure, but you may return to normal activity immediately. This is an appropriate type of treatment for individuals who cannot have an extended recovery period. The Vitalize Chemical Peel combines AHA and Retinoic Acid, producing a strong but gentle and safe peel, with little to no downtime. It is sometimes used to jump start a corrective topical skin care program. Peels are not only used on the face, but also the neck and neckline as well as the hands.

Your Medical Skin Care Specialist will make recommendations that will help you maintain healthy, youthful looking skin once you have completed your initial series of peels. Daily use of sunblock and proper medical skin care is essential to maintaining skin health. Some individuals choose to have a monthly peel or SilkPeel Micordermabrasion to ensure maintenance of fresh, healthy looking skin.

For more information or evaluation, we recommend that you schedule a Skin Care Consultation by calling (530) 342-8295.