Is a Chemical Peel Painful?

You can expect some mild stinging as the chemical solution is initially applied to your skin. However, this usually subsides in a few seconds. The stinging may return with a deeper peel, but oral medication can treat discomfort adequately.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

In some cases, a single chemical peel session can dramatically alter the skin’s appearance. However, the procedures are spaced apart in cases where multiple sessions are needed. Light peels can be undergone every 4-6 weeks, while medium-depth peels can be repeated within 6 to 12 months after the initial session. Deep peels are typically only undertaken every few years. Talk to our aesthetician to determine which peel or series of peels is best for your skin.

How Long Until I See Results?

You will typically notice positive changes within 7-10 days with light and medium peels. A deeper peel usually comes with more swelling, so it can take up to two weeks for your full results to emerge.

Can I Combine Chemical Peels With Other Procedures?

Chemical peels are often paired with dermal fillers or neuromodulators to enhance and augment aesthetic outcomes. If you are interested in other cosmetic procedures, please discuss this with our aesthetician during your private Philadelphia consultation.

What Are the Risks Associated With Chemical Peels?

The risk of using peels depends on the chemical solution applied during the procedure. Talk to our aesthetician about any concerns or specific questions you may have about your chemical peel procedure. In general, potential complications with a chemical peel include: Infection Redness Swelling Scarring Hyperpigmentation Allergic reactions Edema Itching

Chemical Peels

Philadelphia, PA

Introduction to Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is an aesthetic procedure that improves fine lines and wrinkles, evens the skin’s tone and texture, and rids the complexion of blemishes and imperfections. The treatment can enhance vitality and youthfulness by chemically exfoliating the outermost layer of damaged cells, allowing you to feel more confident. At Greco MD in Philadelphia, PA, our highly skilled licensed medical aesthetician administers chemical peels in the office.

Chemical Peels Results

Chemical Peels B&A

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A woman with short gray hair, wearing a white bathrobe, examining her reflection in a mirror, gently touching her face - Chemical Peels in Bala Cynwyd, PA

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What Are Chemical Peels?

The chemical peel process works by causing an intentional injury to the outermost (superficial) skin layer. This injury stimulates the growth of new skin, which is usually smoother and less wrinkled, more even looking skin. The process can help add a youthful appearance to your complexion and reduce fine lines, acne breakouts, and enlarged pores. Chemical peels can be performed on the face, neck, or hands. Depending on the type of chemical peel performed, the treatment is an ideal solution for:

Improving hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage
Improving wrinkles caused by sun damage and aging
Minimizing fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth
Improving the tone and texture of the skin
Reducing age spots, freckles, and dark patches (melasma) due to pregnancy or birth control pills
Treating some types of acne
Improving the appearance of mild scars

What Are the Benefits of Chemical Peels?

When carefully performed by our licensed medical aesthetician at Greco MD in Bala Cynwyd (Philadelphia), chemical peels come with a wide array of impressive benefits:

Refreshes and revitalizes the complexion
It can be highly customized to each patient’s needs and goals
Creates a more youthful, inviting appearance
Erases signs of aging
Combats sun damage, acne scarring, and enlarged pores
Rejuvenates the skin’s tone and texture
Boost self-confidence

Benefits

Who Are the Best Candidates For a Chemical Peel?

A variety of chemical peels are available for all skin types, tones, and textures. Based on the Fitzpatrick level of your skin, a peel can be customized to your needs with less risk of damage. Chemical peels can benefit people with fine wrinkles due to sun damage, cigarette smoking, and aging. More severe wrinkles may require a more involved cosmetic procedure, such as a facelift, brow lift, eyelid lift, laser skin rejuvenation treatment, or dermal fillers. We will conduct a thorough consultation at our Philadelphia office to determine the best approach for accomplishing your cosmetic goals and providing you with a brighter, clearer complexion.

Candidates

What’s the First Step?

Your Chemical Peel Journey with Dr. Timothy Greco

Your treatment journey begins with an in-depth initial meeting at our state-of-the-art Bala Cynwyd (Philadelphia) practice. During your consultation, inform our aesthetician about any history of scarring, recurring cold sores (herpes outbreaks and fever blisters) , recent injectable procedures, or use of Accutane or radiation treatments on the face. These factors can impact the success of your chemical peel. There is a small risk of reactivating cold sores during treatment, but this can be managed with medication. Being open with your provider about your health history helps ensure the best results.

You may be asked to stop taking certain medications before your session and to prepare for a chemical peel using products such as Retin-A, Hydroquinone, or glycolic acid. Antibiotics or antiviral drugs may also be prescribed. The depth of your peel (the skin layers impacted) will be determined based on your skin’s condition and your treatment goals.

Deeper peels can increase skin elasticity by encouraging collagen growth and help improve the appearance of wrinkles. However, deeper skin folds typically respond better to a CO2 laser resurfacing procedure. This is why it is so critical that you attend a detailed meeting with our aesthetician, or Dr. Greco, who will be able to recommend the best options for you.

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Chemical Peels Recovery

After a chemical peel, you may notice redness, flaking, and swelling that can last for up to a week. You may be instructed to wash the area with lukewarm water and apply a soothing ointment or cream. Using the appropriate post-peel products is important for achieving the best results. Our team in Philadelphia will provide these for you to aid in the healing process.

In general, more intense peels can require greater downtime. Depending on the intensity of treatment, healing can take anywhere from a couple of days to two weeks. After a chemical peel, your skin is more sensitive to the sun. Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or above) is vital for protecting your skin from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays for several months after treatment. Continued daily use of SPF sunblock will help maintain your results. It is best to avoid harsh direct sunlight between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Always remember to reapply sunscreen and wear a wide-brim hat and sunglasses when you are in the sun.

How Much Does a Chemical Peel Cost in Philadelphia, PA?

The cost of a chemical peel in Philadelphia will vary based on the type of peel chosen and the regions of the face or body addressed. Our team will offer you personalized pricing once we complete a physical assessment and medical review during your consultation.

Cost

Why Choose Dr. Greco?

While our experienced licensed medical aesthetician performs chemical peels, all treatments at Greco MD in Philadelphia are overseen by Dr. Timothy M. Greco, MD, FACS, a double-board-certified plastic surgeon credentialed by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. This ensures patients enjoy the highest standards of safety and aesthetic excellence. Our world-class, state-certified facility is located at 2 Bala Plaza (adjacent to Saks Fifth Avenue) in Bala Cynwyd, PA, for your convenience. Our goal is to deliver concierge care, personalized attention, and age-defying results in a technologically advanced practice setting.

Why us?

Chemical Peels FAQ’S

In some cases, a single chemical peel session can dramatically alter the skin’s appearance. However, the procedures are spaced apart in cases where multiple sessions are needed. Light peels can be undergone every 4-6 weeks, while medium-depth peels can be repeated within 6 to 12 months after the initial session. Deep peels are typically only undertaken every few years. Talk to our aesthetician to determine which peel or series of peels is best for your skin.
The risk of using peels depends on the chemical solution applied during the procedure. Talk to our aesthetician about any concerns or specific questions you may have about your chemical peel procedure. In general, potential complications with a chemical peel include:
- Infection
- Redness
- Swelling
- Scarring
- Hyperpigmentation
- Allergic reactions
- Edema
- Itching

Schedule a Consultation

Dr. Timothy Greco and his trusted practitioners are skilled at all types of facial treatments and procedures that help counter the effects of aging and reduce scarring. The Greco MD team focuses on the face, head, and neck at their in-office, state-certified aesthetic surgical center. If you are interested in undergoing a chemical peel, we can help! Our practice is conveniently located in Bala Cynwyd, PA, allowing us to provide chemical peels for patients around the Main Line, including Villanova, Bryan Mar, and Wayne.

Get in touch today to schedule a consultation with our licensed medical aesthetician. Call 610-664-8830 or check the provider’s schedule online for appointments.