If your skin doesn’t look or feel as healthy as it should, you might consider chemical peels. They are an excellent treatment to fight the early signs of aging, and restore a more even skin tone and texture. Dr. Timothy Abrahamson at Greater Des Moines Dermatology in Urbandale, IA, provides comprehensive medical and cosmetic dermatology services, including chemical peels. He proudly serves residents of Urbandale, and Des Moines, IA, areas.

What You Need To Know About Chemical Peels

 There are several types of mild chemical peels available, and your dermatologist can help you choose the right chemical peel for your needs. Consider:

• A beta peel, which contains salicylic acid and can help diminish acne and even out pigment is usually the best mild peel.

Many peels are so mild they have minimal effect.  30% Salicyclic acid peels can help pigment and acne issues.  Chemical peels work by sloughing dead skin cells, excess oils, and debris. They help unclog pores, correct sun damage, and promote collagen production, an important substance for younger looking skin.

Chemical peels can be used on your face, neck, arms, hands, chest, back, and legs. They are safe, convenient, and minimally invasive. Chemical peel formulations have been tested and approved by the FDA. They also require little to no downtime.

Chemical peel treatments can be scheduled at one-to-two-week intervals, up to a maximum of six treatments. Each treatment takes between 20 and 30 minutes. Periodic treatments are recommended to maintain optimal results.

Medium peels are meant for people willing to accept a week or two down time but do address even moderate wrinkles and signficant textural changes.   TCA (trichloroacetic acid 35%) is often the best option. These are only done once but can be repeated in 6 to 12 months.  These require signficant aftercare for 2 weeks but have dramatically more effective than any mild peel. 

For most folks considering chemical peels, prescription retinoid use is often advised for long term maintenance. 

Want To Know More?

To discover more about chemical peels and how they can help you look your best, call Dr. Timothy Abrahamson at Greater Des Moines Dermatology in Urbandale, IA, serving residents of Urbandale and Des Moines. You can reach him in the office by calling (515) 243-8676, so call today.