Deep Chemical Peels

What is a deep chemical peel?

Deep chemical peels are the most intense and aggressive of the chemical peel skin resurfacing options. The chemical solutions, such as phenol or croton oil, penetrate through the epidermis (first skin layer), papillary dermis, and into the reticular dermis where hair roots, sebaceous glands, sweat glands, blood vessels, and the protein matrix of collagen and elastin reside.

Deep chemical peels provide significant and lasting results with an increased recovery time and risk of serious side effects. Deep peels are used to even skin tone and texture, reduce the signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, skin discoloration, scars, and certain precancerous skin growths.

What cosmetic concerns does a deep chemical peel treat?

Deep chemical peels penetrate through numerous skin layers for intensive exfoliation and stimulation of the body’s healing and rejuvenation processes for new skin growth.

1. Acne Scars & Scars: Deep peels penetrate multiple dermal layers to debride and remove scar tissue.
2. Uneven Skin Tone: Dermal layer penetration breakdown collections of hyperpigmentation for a more even tone.
3. Uneven Skin Texture: Deep peels lessen deposits of dead/damaged skin cells and sebum.
4. Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Deep peels encourage extreme cell turnover for a significantly refreshed complexion.
5. Facial Skin Laxity: Collagen stimulation firms and tightens skin.

Who is the ideal candidate for a deep chemical peel?

The ideal candidate for a deep chemical peel is an individual with a lighter skin tone looking to correct moderate to severe skin concerns. Deep chemical peels are not recommended for those with darker skin tones due to risk of hypopigmentation, those with active skin infections, sunburns, open skin lesions, or those who are nursing or pregnant.

What is the average recovery associated with a deep chemical peel?

There is generally at least two weeks of acute downtime following a deep chemical peel. Pain, redness, swelling, severe crusting, and flaking will persist for one to two weeks, but some side effects can last several months. Occlusive dressings and diligent skin care will have to be considered for the first few post-procedure days. Patients are advised to refrain from activities and work for two weeks. The treated skin may have a different tone and have lost the ability to tan. Skincare and limiting sun exposure with good sunscreen are important to aid recovery and improve results.

What are the potential side effects of a deep chemical peel?

Possible side effects following a deep chemical peel include local infection, contact dermatitis, irritation, burning, pruritus, pain, persistent erythema, edema, blistering. Delayed side effects may include scarring, delayed healing, milia, textural changes, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, lines of demarcation, loss of cutaneous barrier and tissue injury, and acneiform eruptions

What can someone expect from the results of a deep chemical peel?

The results of a deep chemical peel will develop after several months as skin sheds and heals. Dramatic and enduring results after one treatment that can last years. The results will still change with natural aging and sun damage like in superficial chemical peels and medium depth chemical peel.

What is the average cost of a deep chemical peel?

Deep chemical peels cost anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000. The actual cost of a deep chemical peels is dependent upon location, provider, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure. Learn more in our complete guide to the cost of chemical peels.