Chemical Peels in San Francisco, CA
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Book NowAbout Chemical Peels
A chemical peel is a technique that uses topical chemicals to peel away the top layer of old skin to reveal a new, fresh layer of skin. The result is rejuvenated, more youthful skin, similar to the results of a microdermabrasion treatment. While chemical peels are typically used on the face, they can also be administered to other parts of the body, including the neck, chest, and décolletage. Depending on the use of the chemical peel, varying levels of strength can be administered. Chemical peels are commonly used as a safe treatment for skin afflictions such as wrinkles, discoloration, acne, texture or pigmentation irregularities, or other related conditions. It is regarded as a successful way to achieve softer, smoother skin for better skin health and tone. Talk to one of the skin care professionals at Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology in San Francisco to learn more about the benefits of chemical peels.
Types of Chemical Peels
There are several types of chemical peels offered by our office. The strength used will be determined based on the skin condition of the patient, as well as the aesthetic goals and desired downtime. Our office offers the following peels:
- Superficial/Light Peel: This is the mildest chemical peel. It is performed in a matter of minutes with only about three to five days downtime of peeling. During this peel, only the most superficial layer of skin is removed, which causes the skin to immediately look smoother, more even toned, and brighter. These peels are usually comprised of alpha hydroxyl or beta hydroxyl acid, along with salicylic acid, glycolic acid and lactic acid. Usually, multiple treatments are recommended to get the best possible results.
- Medium Depth Peel: This peel goes deeper than a light peel and therefore, provides more dramatic results. This particular peel is usually derived from Trichloroacetic acid (known as TCA), a type of acid that penetrates deeper into the skin. A medium depth peel is used to treat hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and sun damage. Since the peel goes deeper, a patient can expect a longer recovery period and should plan ahead since the face can be swollen, itchy and red for about ten days following the treatment.
What to Expect
Regardless of the peel used, the overall procedure is similar. The skin will be cleansed thoroughly and a licensed esthetician will apply the chemical solution to your face. This process takes just a few minutes and a handheld fan is used to help decrease discomfort. During a light peel, the skin will tingle during treatment while a medium peel will produce a bit more discomfort. The differences between the peels are the type of solution used, the number of steps taken during the actual procedure, as well as the amount of solution that is applied.
Chemical Peel Reviews
Great service for chemical peel!
Had a great experience with Dr. Austin! She clarified where my product regimen was lacking, prescribed a medication to mitigate this dry patch that always shows up in the same spot on my chin. She did 2 different fillers for different parts of my face. It’s looks great! I have an appointment in 3 months for some laser & a chemical peel. Can’t wait! Thank you so much Dr. Austin.
I have been a patient at BACD for fifteen years. I trust Dr. Welsh and Dr. Austin--caring, kind, personable professionals who have taught me how to care for my skin so that it appears much younger than my sixty-six years. I have had several chemical peels over the years, and been very pleased with the results, so when I went to schedule another peel and Dr. Austin suggested Fontona Deep, I was ready. I had tolerated the peels well and was not anxious, so declined taking any meds before the procedure. The first step was to apply numbing cream to my entire face and throat for an hour before beginning. The Fotona process is, as Dr. Austin describes it, "spicy." I found the spiciness manageable until close to the eye area and throat, which was eased by inhaling some NO2. After we finished, my face and throat were covered with medication and balm, wrapped with gauze, and secured with netting. I easily drove myself home. For the next four nights I applied the provided balm, gauze, and netting. I had the procedure on a Monday afternoon and that Friday felt comfortable spending the weekend out of town. Given that one's skin looks pretty fierce at first, I was surprised at how quickly the redness dissipated, even though I had an idea from the photos that Dr. Welsh had taken chronicling her own procedure's recovery process. After two-and-a-half weeks my skin's appearance is much improved from pre-procedure, with only a small amount of redness remaining at my hairline and throat. I could not be more pleased with not only the Fontona results, but the results of fifteen years of excellent skincare guidance from Drs. Welsh and Austin. I love my skin. Thank you!
Had a series of 4 chemical peels with Mary the esthetician. She is gentle and very experienced,I can already see improvement with my skin. Mary is very caring and personable. She is Amazing, love her! Will definitely ask for her again.
Doctor K Welsh, always attentive of my concerns, and gave health care suggestions. I’ve been her patient for over 30yrs now! She is one of the few Dermatologists that will not leave you in the treatment room until you are satisfied of the treatment. The staffs always provides the most caring and great customer Highly recommend her professional skin treatments and patience to discuss all concerns.
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Other Considerations
A soothing ointment will be applied to the skin after the treatment. In the days that follow, the skin will begin to naturally flake and peel away. Patients should avoid picking at the skin or trying to speed up the peeling process in any way because this can result in scarring. Patients should also avoid sun exposure and keep their skin protected at all times.
Reveal Better Skin
In order to achieve a more flawless, brighter and overall better-looking appearance, there are a number of options available to a patient. Choosing the right treatment is dependent upon your skin as well as your personal goals. Chemical peels are ideal for sun-damaged skin, pigmentation, scarring, and other skin irregularities. We invite you to call our office today to schedule a consultation and find out if you are a candidate for a chemical peel treatment.