Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are a cosmetic treatment that evenly exfoliates the top layer of skin, revealing the younger and healthier skin underneath. Board-certified dermatologist Oge Onwudiwe, MD, FAAD, at Cutis Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics in Alexandria, Virginia, customizes chemical peels to meet individual skin needs and goals. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about chemical peels. 

What are chemical peels?

Chemical peels are cosmetic treatments that improve the appearance of the skin on the face, neck, or hands. During a chemical peel, Dr. Onwudiwe applies a chemical solution to your skin, causing it to peel away, revealing the newer skin underneath.

At Cutis Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics, Dr. Onwudiwe uses chemical peels to treat the following:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Hyperpigmentation
• Acne
• Acne scarring
• Sun damaged skin
• Dull complexion

Dr. Onwudiwe specializes in cosmetic dermatology and offers many treatments to help you look and feel your best.

What type of chemical peel treats wrinkles?

Dr. Onwudiwe customizes your chemical peel so you get the best results. There are three strengths of chemical peels, and each treats wrinkles. 

Light chemical peel

A light chemical peel, also called a superficial peel, uses a mild acidic solution that exfoliates the outermost layer of skin. This type of peel lessens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improves skin tone and texture.

Medium chemical peel

A medium chemical peel uses a slightly stronger acidic solution that penetrates a little deeper into the skin. This type of peel addresses deeper lines and wrinkles as well as sun-damaged skin and mild acne scarring. 

Deep chemical peel

A deep chemical peel uses a strong acidic solution that penetrates into the dermal layer of the skin. This chemical peel treats moderate lines and wrinkles, severe sun damage, and deep acne scars. 

Is it painful to get a chemical peel?

Dr. Onwudiwe explains what you can expect during your chemical peel at your initial consultation. She may apply a numbing lotion to your skin to minimize discomfort, and you may feel a tingling and warming sensation during treatment.

After cleaning your skin, she expertly applies the chemical solution to the treatment areas and leaves it in place for a set period of time. She then neutralizes or removes the acidic solution. 

Dr. Onwudiwe applies a cooling gel to your skin and sunscreen before sending you home. 

How long is recovery following chemical peels?

Recovery following chemical peels depends on the type of peel. For a light chemical peel, you can expect some redness and skin peeling that may last up to a week. There’s no downtime following a light chemical peel.

Medium and deep chemical peels may require some downtime, and healing can take two or more weeks. Dr. Onwudiwe provides at-home care instructions so you get the best results.

Call Cutis Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics today or schedule your chemical peel consultation online.