Brightening peels are chemical peels that target pigmentation, including stubborn melasma and sunspots. They can also help improve skin tone and texture to smooth and brighten skin. We offer two levels of brightening peels with increasing strength. The higher level will result in longer post-procedure peeling but will see improvement in fewer treatments. Both levels are safe for all skin types. These peels are not recommended if you are pregnant or nursing.
What Will The Procedure Feel Like?
Each treatment is approximately 30 minutes long. The skin will be cleansed and degreased. A protective ointment will be placed on the corners of the eyes, nose, and mouth. The peels are then performed in two steps. The first layer is applied and left on the treatment area for approximately 10 minutes. During this time, a mild stinging sensation may be felt. Then, the second and final layer, consisting of either a solution or mask, is applied to the treatment area. This will remain on the skin after the procedure, and the patient will wash it off after several hours as directed by the provider.
Do I Have To Do Anything To Prepare in Advance?
- Avoid sun exposure four weeks before and after treatment.
- Self-tanners and/or Spray Tans should be avoided for at least one week before treatment.
- Stop products containing retinoids, alpha hydroxy (glycolic) acids, beta hydroxy (salicylic) acids, benzoyl peroxide, and hydroquinone at least one week before the procedure.
- Avoid any other exfoliating products that may be drying or irritating and waxing one week before and after the procedure.
- If you have a history of cold sores, be sure to notify your doctor before your procedure so that you can be given medication to reduce the chance of a breakout.
What Will I Look Like Afterwards?
Patients will leave with the final layer of the in-office procedure on their face and be instructed to wash it off after several hours. Therefore, patients must go directly home after the treatment. The treatment area may have a light-yellow tinge immediately after removal of the solution/mask. This is temporary and will fade in a few hours. During the days following, the area may be red, and you may experience itching and/or irritation as the area flakes. Avoid sun exposure for four weeks following the treatment and apply sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and zinc oxide as an active ingredient. Exercise should be avoided for the first 48 hours after the treatment, and makeup should be avoided while the skin is peeling. Downtime is dependent on the level of peel performed:
- Brightening micro peel (level 1): Two to three days of redness similar to a mild windburn with flaking will begin around 48 hours after the procedure and continue for 2-5 days. We recommend purchasing a post-procedure cleanse and moisturizing complex to lessen downtime and speed healing. Your provider may recommend Brighten Up or another lightening product to increase results. It is also essential to use daily sunscreen as recommended. (A cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen kit are included for patients who purchase a package of three treatments.)
- Brightening HP peel (level 2): Four to seven days of redness with flaking/peeling that will begin around 48 hours post-procedure and continue for one week. A kit includes a post-procedure cleanse, post-procedure soothing balm, moisturizing complex, brightening cream, and post-procedure protection. These products should be used as directed for four to six weeks. Results depend on consistent use as they amplify and continue the results of the in-office procedure. The skin can be more sensitive and pink and may peel/flake during the four to six weeks the products are used.