A chemical peel at Shumway Cosmetic Surgery is an exfoliation treatment in which a customized acid solution is applied to the skin. The application of customized acids on the skin prompt the top layer to slough off. This does not sound productive, but it is. Our San Diego, CA cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Robert A. Shumway, can tell you that a chemical peel can change the appearance, health, and texture of your skin for the better. As your delicate skin begins to heal, repair, and renew itself — you will then see a smoother, clearer, more youthful complexion. In the right hands, a chemical peel can improve skin texture and correct various skin conditions on the face, neck, chest, arms, and hands. Our peels dramatically boost your skin’s appearance by:

• Diminishing discoloration
• Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
• Brightening dullness and smoothing uneven skin tone
• Minimizing and tightening large pores
• Stimulating the production of collagen for firmer skin

We offer the MicroPeel, a high-quality superficial chemical peel that uses an alpha hydroxy acid solution and requires no downtime. In fact, the MicroPeel is often referred to as the “lunch break peel.” For more intense corrections and deeper skin issues, we also offer the MicroPeel Plus, which is available in two concentration strengths of salicylic acid and can be customized to your skin type and goals.

A team member at Shumway Cosmetic Surgery will evaluate your skin during an exam in our San Diego, CA office before selecting a chemical peel for best results. Chemical peel patients may have visible concerns on their skin, including acne scars, rough patches, flaky skin, discoloration, sun spots, fine lines, and more. We may recommend varying strengths of peels to match your needs.

If you have a dull, aged complexion and are hoping to correct any of the following skin woes, you may be a good candidate for a chemical peel:

• Age and/or sun spots
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Freckles and dark patches
• Rough skin and scaly patches
• Mild acne scarring

It’s also important to note what a chemical peel will not treat. This includes:

• Severe facial lines and folds
• Broken capillaries
• Deep scars
• Loose or sagging skin

While these are only guidelines, the best way to know if a chemical peel is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shumway.

During your appointment at Shumway Cosmetic Surgery, we will have you lying in a comfortable position to administer your treatment. A team member will ensure the skin is cleaned prior to applying the personalized solution to the face, neck, or both. We will spread the solution onto the skin and allow it to work for an appropriate length of time that will be determined in your chemical peel consultation. Next, we will clean the peel off your skin and put on a neutralizing agent. Patients should bring sunscreen and/or a hat to wear outside following the peel to protect against UV exposure.

Based on the strength of the chemical peel you receive, you should expect the treated area to peel and itch from several days to two or more weeks. Dr. Shumway or a member of his team will explain ways to treat your face during your procedure. Please remember that no matter how badly your skin itches throughout the recovery, it’s not good to peel the skin off. You may create scarring to your skin!

How much does a chemical peel cost?
Dr. Shumway can go over your costs during your consultation as soon as he has created your custom treatment plan. Costs for a chemical peel will vary, depending on the formula you select. Shumway Cosmetic Surgery takes several payments methods, and there are often specials on treatments, like chemical peels. Buying a package with several chemical peel treatments can also help you save money.

What level should I choose for my chemical peel?
Which level of chemical peel is best for you will vary based on your specific skin issues and aesthetic goals. In your initial consultation with Dr. Shumway, he can help you choose which chemical peel is best for your skin. A few things you might consider are your general health, the type of skin you have, the depth of your skin concerns, the time you can commit to recovery, and what you want the peel to accomplish. Initially, it’s better to select a light chemical peel and decide what you think of the results. After this, you and Dr. Shumway may alter your plan to decide the best type of peel for your skin.

Will my face hurt after a chemical peel?
Based on the chemicals selected, you might feel mild discomfort during and shortly after your peel. If you choose a light peel, you may notice a little discomfort; however, this can be alleviated with a small fan. Deep or medium peels are better for deeper issues and give you longer-lasting results; however, they usually cause greater discomfort. Numbing cream, medications, and ointments may be used to help you feel more comfortable during your chemical peel. Dr. Shumway or a member of his team will talk to you about post-treatment skin care to help your skin heal.

Can I combine a chemical peel with other treatments?
You may consider combining a chemical peel with another skin treatment at Shumway Cosmetic Surgery. In your initial consultation, be open with Dr. Shumway when describing your skin problems so he can develop a unique treatment plan to achieve your goals. Your plan might include an injectable treatment for wrinkles (such as Juvéderm or BOTOX), plus a chemical peel to refresh your entire face.

If you have never had facial rejuvenation treatments, Shumway Cosmetic Surgery can help you determine the best option for your needs. Your freshly revived skin will respond by looking bright and touchably smooth after it has successfully healed. Contact our office in San Diego, CA to make an appointment for your skin consultation today for a medical-grade chemical peel.