Chemical Peels in St. Louis, MO

Chemical peels are versatile and effective tools for addressing many skin concerns, from wrinkles and light acne scarring to irregular pigmentation like freckles and age spots. Pre-cancerous conditions such as keratoses (thick, rough, reddish growths) also respond well to this procedure.

A chemical peel gently removes the top layers of skin, encouraging new, smoother, healthier skin to grow back. The result is skin that is rejuvenated and fresher looking, with a healthy glow and fewer imperfections.

Types of Chemical Peels

Light Chemical Peel

A light peel is the ideal choice to achieve subtle improvement, particularly at a younger age. Light chemical peels target fine wrinkles, sun damage, mild to moderate acne, and uneven skin pigmentation. Recovery usually takes a few hours to a few days with very little downtime.

Medium Chemical Peel

A medium peel goes a bit deeper, removing both the top layer of skin and the upper middle layer. It is remarkably effective for moderate discoloration, acne scars, age spots, and moderate wrinkles. A medium peel can restore smoother, fresher skin. You may need a day or two of downtime before returning to work, and recovery takes a bit longer.

Deep Chemical Peel

This is our most intensive chemical peel, penetrating the lower middle skin layers and often providing dramatic results. A deep peel can improve moderate wrinkles and lines, severe acne scarring, serious UV damage, blotchy skin, and pre-cancerous skin growths. Before performing a deep chemical peel, your skin will require pretreatment and significant recovery time. A deep peel is typically a one-time facial treatment that is not repeated.

The Chemical Peel Process

After thoroughly cleansing the skin, a small applicator is used to apply the chemical solution to an area of the face. Excess solution is removed, and the procedure is repeated on other areas. The outer layers of skin then peel away, revealing newer, fresher skin.

The degree of improvement varies and depends on the patient’s initial skin condition. Significant improvement in damaged skin has been achieved, producing impressive results.

Chemical Peel FAQs

How long is the downtime after a chemical peel?

It depends on the type of peel and your level of sensitivity. For a light peel, most individuals recover quickly and can return to their normal activities immediately. The face may be sensitive for the first day or two. However, a deep peel requires a significant recovery time. We will review recovery times and aftercare instructions with you before performing your peel.

Are chemical peels safe for all skin types?

Some formulations are safe for every skin type. However, individuals with darker skin are more likely to develop hyperpigmentation. They should avoid deep chemical peels or those containing carbolic acid. Generally speaking, the fairer your skin, the lower your risk of complications. If you have sensitive skin, please be sure to mention it at your consultation so we can formulate a chemical peel solution that is gentle on your skin.

What are the possible side effects of a chemical peel?

Side effects of chemical peels are generally mild when performed by a professional. Some individuals may develop redness that persists for several weeks, temporary darkening of the skin (with medium or deep peels), lighter skin (with medium or deep peels), or scarring (extremely rare).

How soon can I wear makeup after a chemical peel?

This is dependent on the type of peel. We recommend the following:

• For a light peel, wait 1-2 days before applying makeup.
• For a medium peel, wait 5-7 days before applying makeup.
• For a deep peel, wait 10-14 days before applying makeup.

Chemical peels can dramatically improve the texture and tone of your skin. If you are interested in a consultation to determine the best chemical peel to address your facial skin concerns, please give us a call at MarElyse Medispa at MarElyse MediSpa Phone Number 314-571-6062.