At Worcester Dermatology Associates, we take the time to understand your unique concerns and goals. Then we craft a practical solution that meets your needs, and exceeds your expectations. Find out more when you request a cosmetic consultation online or call us at 508-754-3823 in Worcester or 978-256-4151 in Chelmsford.
Revealing Beautiful Skin
Chemical peels Worcester remove upper layers of the skin to reveal the fresh new complexion beneath. They are often used to improve:
- Fine lines
- Hyperpigmentation (skin discoloration or age spots)
- Enlarged pores due to an improper daily skincare regimen
- Light sun damage
- Light freckling
- Minimal scarring
Chemical Peel Options
There are three common variations of chemical peels.
| Light Peels | Medium Peels | Deep Peels | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peeling Agent | AHA, Microlaser | TCA, Microlaser | Microlaser |
| Improves | Skin texture, skin tone | Sun damage, fine lines | Deep wrinkles, pre-cancerous growths, severe sun damage |
| Discomfort | Minimal | Some stinging | Yes, requiring medication |
| Recovery | Minimal | 3 to 5 days | Several weeks |
| # of Treatments | Several | Several | Only 1 |
Light Peels (AHA Peels)
Light peels are usually formulated with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). They treat the outer layer of skin (the epidermis) and mildly stimulate collagen formation in the uppermost part of the deeper layer of skin (the dermis). They can smooth out rough and dry skin, improve the texture of sun-damaged skin, and even out skin tone.
Recovery is rapid after a light peel, usually consisting of minor flaking and mild redness for several days. A series of 4 to 6 treatments are generally required to obtain the best results. Improvements from an AHA peel are temporary, so periodic treatments are usually recommended to maintain the results.
Medium Peels
Medium peels usually contain trichloroacetic acid (TCA). They can also be performed with an erbium laser (Microlaser peel) that can have significantly shorter recovery times and more predictable results. They are most often used to treat the effects of sun damage. They also diminish the appearance of blotchy skin by reducing the color contrast of surrounding skin.
After a medium peel, the upper layers of skin to flake off within 5 to 7 days. Most patients experience about 1 to 2 weeks of downtime, but feel like it’s “time well spent” when they see their results. A series of medium peels may be required for optimal improvement.
Deep Peels
Deep peels are able to treat more severe wrinkles, sun damage, and pre-cancerous growths. However, these dramatic results bring with them longer recovery and more extensive side effects. For instance:
- Deep peels can lighten the treatment area, so they are not recommended for people with dark skin. Not only will the skin become lighter, it will be much more important to protect it from the sun.
- Scarring may result if a deep peel is applied to areas other than the face.
- Recovery typically takes 1 to 2 weeks.
Deep peels can be performed with an erbium laser (Microlaser peel) for significantly shorter recovery times and more predictable results. When you’re considering a deep peel, it’s very important to choose a physician you can trust. You can trust Dr. Seth Kates to explain in detail the risks of a deep peel, to say “no” if it’s not a good fit for you, and to perform your peel as safely as possible should you choose to move forward.
Other skin rejuvenation options at our practice include IPL (intense pulsed light), laser resurfacing, and BOTOX® Cosmetic in Worcester, Massachusetts.