Aesthetic Treatments - Chemical Peels - FAQs

Chemical Peels: Frequently Asked Questions

What are 
Chemical Peels?

There are many types of chemical peels on the market today. At Medical Aesthetics of New England, PC, we use either one chemical at a time (i.e., glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid) or a combination of chemical agents. These chemical solutions are offered in various strengths and combinations of chemical agents based specifically on your needs. We customize each treatment based on which conditions you desire to treat.

What are Chemical Peels used for?

At Medical Aesthetics of New England, PC, we provide chemical peels to improve the appearance of fine lines, hyper pigmentation (skin discoloration or age spots), enlarged pores, light sun damage, light freckling, acne, mask of pregnancy (melasma) and scarring.

What areas of your body can be treated with Chemical Peels?

Chemical peels can be used on the face, arms, legs, neck, chest and hands. Chemical Peels can be combined with microdermabrasion for added enhancement of each treatment.

What do Chemical Peels do?

During the procedure, the treatment provider at Medical Aesthetics of New England, PC will apply the chemical solution to the area chosen, most commonly over your entire face. The chemical agent works to separate the outer surface layers of the skin. These layers often contain dead skin, which is removed during the process. The chemical agents serve to stimulate the generation of new skin through the healing process.

Does it hurt?

During the application, you may experience a cool or hot sensation that can last for ten minutes or more. This feeling may be accompanied with stinging but is rarely painful. Medical Aesthetics of New England, PC provides its clients cooling fans, ice packs or the Zimmer skin chiller for comfort during the procedure, as needed.

What should you expect after a treatment?

After the peel, you may experience mild to moderate erythema (redness of skin) and/or edema (swelling) for 6 to 24 hours post-peel. Mild erythema may persist until healing is complete. Healing may take up to 7 days with mild to moderate flaking and/or peeling of the treated areas. At Medical Aesthetics of New England, PC, we usually recommend a series of treatments for you to see the maximum benefit from this type of skin resurfacing. After your skin is healed, your new skin should look healthier and more youthful.

What kind of complications may occur?

Complications from superficial peeling agents are rare. The most common side effects of peeling agents may include persistent erythema, irritation and increased sensitivity. Less common are hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation. These side effects are usually transient. It is very important that you follow the prescribed at-home skin care regimen to minimize possible side effects and maximize results.

What products should be used after a Chemical Peel?

To maximize the benefit of the chemical peel series, it is important for you to apply a skin-care product that nourishes and hydrates the skin. This is most critical for 7 to 10 days immediately following the peel. Medical Aesthetics of New England, PC offers a complete line of physician grade skin care products (PREVAGE™, BelleDerm, Revision®, VIVITÉ®, CliniqueMedical and Colorescience®) designed to nourish and care for your individual skin care needs. We will work with you to customize your skin care regime. Regular at-home use of quality maintenance products will also extend the duration of the chemical peel's results.

How do I find out more about Chemical Peels?

As always, Medical Aesthetics of New England, PC, offers private, complementary consultations to answer your questions, and to show you before and after photos. Call us at 978-263-1406 or 978-627-0233 to schedule a personal consultation immediately.

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