Beauty + Appearance Medicine

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels have been used for centuries to improve the appearance of wrinkles and discoloration. While a chemical peel can be used anywhere on the body, they are generally used on the face, neck, hands, or chest.

A chemical solution is applied to the skin that causes it to eventually peel off, revealing skin that is smoother and has a more even-toned appearance. Fine lines and wrinkles are diminished.

There are three basic types of chemical peels:

Superficial Peel: Sometimes referred to as a “lunchtime peel”, a superficial peel uses a mild acid to penetrate only the outer layer of the skin to gently exfoliate it. This type of peel is used to refresh the face, neck, chest or hands.

Medium Peel: A medium depth peel penetrates the skin more deeply than a superficial peel and may cause a second-degree burn of the skin. It is used to improve ageing skin, as well as, smooth rough skin and treat some precancerous skin growths.

Deep Peel: A high concentration of Trichlororacetic Acid (TCA) or Phenol is applied to deeply penetrate several layers of the skin to removed damaged skin cells. Deep peels are used to treat severe wrinkles, long-term sun damage, pronounced pigment changes, and lesions and growths on the skin. Patients may see dramatic results in skin appearance. This procedure must be done by a Doctor, is used only on the face, and may be performed only once. Deep peels are not done on darker skin types as a bleaching of the skin occurs.

Considerations before a Peel

Chemical peels of any strength have the capability of creating permanent damage to the skin if not properly administered. A thorough consultation examining all aspects of a person’s history is required by a medical or skin care expert.

The best candidates for a peel are light hair and fair skinned people, typically referred to as a Fitzpatrick I up to a Fitzpatrick II. The more color that is in the skin, the more possibility for damage to the skin exists.

Peels are not recommended for individuals with infections, active skin diseases, cuts or broken skin, sunburns or active Herpes Simplex.

Peels are contraindicated for those individuals who:

Are pregnant or nursing
Have taken Accutane within the last six months (minimum)
Have psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis or Rosacea
Have used Retin-a or other prescription skin care products within the last 48 hours

Risks and Complications of a Peel

In general, as peels go deeper into the skin, the risk of side effects and complications increases. All peels carry the risk of unwanted issues. The more common side effects from chemical peels are:

Redness and swelling. Some redness is expected after a chemical peel. With deeper peels or certain skin types, redness can be severe and last several months.
Color changes in the skin. Areas treated by a chemical peel may be darker or lighter than the surrounding areas. This can be permanent.
Crusting and scaling. Can lead to scarring without the proper care.
Swelling, especially around the eyes.
Allergic reaction to the acid chemical used.
People who have a history of herpes outbreaks are especially prone to infection after a chemical peel.
Increased sensitivity to sunlight.
In rare cases, deep peels using Phenol can cause more severe complications during the procedure, including damage to the heart, liver or kidneys.

Preparing the Skin for a Chemical Peel

When opting for a chemical peel to revive ageing or damaged skin, it is important to prepare the skin for the peel to achieve the best possible result and to avoid any risks associated with chemical peels. NeoGenesis recommends using Recovery serum twice daily after cleansing with the NeoGenesis Cleanser for four weeks prior to a peel. Apply Recovery all over the face and neck, including the eye area and around the lips. After Recovery, apply our Intensive Moisturizer or Barrier Renewal Cream, to keep the barrier hydrated and soothed. This twice daily protocol will nourish the skin for a superior outcome and lessen the chance of unwanted side effects.

After a Chemical Peel

The skin will be in a more sensitive and fragile state after a peel and must be handled with great care for proper healing. Use our gentle Cleanser, followed by Recovery serum twice daily. When appropriate, Intensive Moisturizer or Barrier Renewal Cream may be used for soothing relief. For instant relief, a light spray of our Moisturizing Mist may be used throughout the day as needed.

When the skin is completely healed, Recovery may be used daily or 3 to 4 times per week as a boost prior to any other product.

Brochures:

Reviews:

“Soothing to use and my skin looks amazing after peels and other skin irritations.” ~ SS – Skin Beautiful RX

Product: NeoGenesis Recovery

“As my initial pictures indicate, I had a reaction to a peel. I applied Recovery over about half my neck. The next set of pictures shows my neck roughly one hour later. The final set of pictures show my neck roughly 24 hours later. The side that I put Recovery on completely calmed down. The side I did not put Recovery on, blistered! Ouch. For a reaction to a peel, as a licensed aesthetician, I recommend Recovery right away!” ~ SY

Product: NeoGenesis Recovery

“I started using NeoGenesis skin care products in January. I immediately noticed a difference in the tone and texture of my skin and could not stop touching my face. I was using the Recovery Serum after having a series of peels and could not believe how wonderful it made my face feel. It calmed my skin immediately and took away the stinging sensation as soon as it was applied. I used the Recovery twice daily along with the Skin Serum, and Intensive Moisturizer and I love what is has done for my skin.

I have been using the full product line for 7 months now and I continue to see improvement in how my skin looks and feels.

My friends have actually asked what work I had done because my skin is looking so amazing. The best testimonial though has to be when asked how old I look, people guess between 35-40. Thank you so much NeoGenesis!”

Products: NeoGenesis Recovery, Skin Serum, Intensive Moisturizer

“Love this cream. What a wonderful and soothing cream. No question that I am seeing a noticeable difference. I am using after microneedling and after my weekly peels.” ~ SL – Art of Skin Care

Product: Barrier Renewal Cream

“I did a chemical peel on my hands recently as a test for Recovery. I used Recovery shortly after the procedure and then every day twice a day. My hands recovered very quickly and I must say my hands look years younger today! I feel that Recovery really helped the process.” ~ DC

Product: NeoGenesis Recovery

“With a 2nd degree burn from a chemical peel, I was desperate for relief. Unfortunately, a plastic surgeon recommended a peel just 2 weeks prior to radiation. The peel was on my chest adjacent to my cancer, on my breast. The Recovery by NeoGenesis provided immediate relief. The blisters improved and the skin smoothed out. The redness has dissipated and I am still seeing improvement. I am also using the Recovery serum on my breast and I am into the 9th day of radiation and not showing signs of redness. I plan to use the serum throughout radiation to help with blistering and scarring.” ~ DW

FOLLOW UP REVIEW
“I have been using the NeoGenesis product, Recovery, for a chemical burn and for side effects from radiation. Prior to radiation, I had a plastic surgeon remove the scar tissue in my breast resulting from a lumpectomy. Unfortunately, I simultaneously opted to include an elective procedure of a laser and chemical peel, which resulted in severe blistering and burning. Recovery truly helped me and relieved my discomfort. At this time there is almost no scarring.

In mid-August, I started radiation. I used Recovery daily and surprised all of the technologists and doctors (especially since I have Lupus), as I did not peel, blister, or scar. My skin darkened for a week or two, and that has also dissipated. I am still using Recovery to help with the darkness from radiation.

Your product Recovery saved the day. I hope other cancer patients have the opportunity to use your stem cell skincare products to save their skin.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart!” ~ DW