Chemical Peels

Effective Treatment for Skin Concerns

Chemical peels are an effective way to treat a wide variety of skin issues and concerns, including but not limited to:

Acne Scarring and other scars

Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Aged and Saggy Skin

Discoloration, Blemishes, Hyperpigmentation

Enlarged Pores, Acne, Blackheads

Chemical Peels Kitchener Waterloo

There are different types of chemical peels available to patients. In general peels can be classified as light, medium, and deep. Each patient needs a unique approach to treat their specific goals, needs, wants, and skin conditions. Using a patient centred approach allows us to tailor a treatment regimen that is unique and effective. 

AHA peels use Alpha Hydroxy Acids, such as Lactic Acid, or Glycolic Acid, which are typically lighter peels that hit the upper layers of the skin. As these peels are typically milder, they are usable on all skin types and still cause a gentle exfoliation to treat the skin. For patients looking to treat mild acne, mild fine lines, and need to refresh dull, tired skin, an AHA based peel like our Vivier Peel is great to choose. 

Glycolic Acid peels are another form of AHA peel offered. Depending on the strength of the acid percent, the depth, penetration, and strength of the peel can be varied. Glycolic peels are reserved for patients who have completed Vivier Peels already, have tolerated the treatments, and have now evolved to the next level of peel based treatment. Glycolic peels can still be safely used on all skin types, are still great for fine lines, wrinkles, acne, and oiliness.

More Chemical Peel Options

Salicylic Acid is a great choice for acne and acneic skin. It is antiseptic, not harsh on the skin, and can help immensely for patients with acne as a prime concern. This acid can help with fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation aswell Salicylic Acid forms the base of our Jessner Peels, and is also found in a very low percent in our Vivier Peel.

Lactic Acid is a type of AHA, derived from milk. Lactic Acid, especially at a low percentage is great as a starter peel as it is gentle on the skin, can be used in all skin types, and can be used on sensitive to oily and dry, and even mature skin. Lactic Acid Peels cause minimal redness and flakiness, and can be done every 4-6 weeks. 

Glycolic Acid is typically applied at higher percentages (by a physician only) for a medium to deep peeling. This causes more peeling, but can have a great exfoliative effect. Glycolic Acid Peels are great “all purpose” peels that can treat all sorts of skin issues: fine lines, wrinkles, general skin aging, melasma, and more. 

TCA  peels are the “gold standard” of peels. All other peels are compared to TCA peels. The TCA peel is typically a medium to very deep peel (depending on concentration used). It is a great peel if your skin can handle it that can do work on wrinkles, fine lines, wrinkles, melasma, and more. TCA peels are sometimes combined with other peels for the greatest effect.  

Beyond these peels there are an infinite number of peel options. The important things to consider also are that the type of peel is not the only important factor, but also the strength/percentage of the acid being used, and that the treatment is being done by a clinic that knows what they are doing. 

Other types of Peels include High Strength Glycolic, and TCA (trichloroacetic acid). These types of peels “generally” penetrate a bit deeper, but it depends entirely on the percentage used. A glycolic or TCA peel could actually be mild if a low percentage is used, or very harsh and deep if a very high percentage is used. In general though, TCA peels are much more aggressive, can not be used on darker skin tones, and cause much more redness and peeling as they are much deeper in penetration. 

Chemical peels exfoliate the skin and help treat almost any skin condition from acne, scarring, hyperpigmentation, and general skin aging.

Aging skin? Losing your glow? Or maybe suffering from Acne, Scarring, Fine Lines/Wrinkles, Pigmentation issues? Chemical peels are a great way to treat active skin conditions and improve general skin quality. Everyone should be thinking about chemical peels, even those with healthy problem free skin.

Chemical Peels are applied to the skin to refine the pores, improve acne, brighten your skin, and smooth your complexion. Our medical treatments stimulate the skin by enhancing the natural exfoliation cycle, and by removing dead skin cells and by unclogging pores. You will leave refreshed, rejuvenated, brighter skin.

Chemical peels form the foundation of every individuals general skin routine and can be combined easily with more advanced treatments like Botox, Dermal Fillers, Microneedling and more.

Some patients are afraid they may shed and peel after peels. This is not always true! There are different types of peels, and if this is your first time we will always suggest a gentle lactic acid peel (like a Vivier Peel) to start.

Chemical peels are also not a one-size fits all. Each peel differs depending on skin goals. Both the Jessner and Vivier Peel are self-neutralizing, safe when applied by an expert, and well tolerated by almost all patients with proper pre and post procedure maintenance. Many patients return to their regular work, school, and life routines immediately after our treatments.

TCA peels are also self neutralizing, but carry additional risk due to the strength of the peel. These peels should only be done under the direct guidance of a Medical Doctor.

Glycolic acid deep peels are NOT self neutralizing and should strictly be done by a Medical Doctor that know how to control and neutralize these peels appropriately. 

Best Chemical Peel Results:

You may start to notice a difference to your skin after 1 treatment but peels are for maintenance and treatment! Most patients require continuous peel application to treat chronic issues like scarring and acne, and for general skin maintenance. Initial treatments are recommend every 2-4 weeks for the first 3 months and then every 2-3 months for maintenance. However each patient and their specific needs are different, and our medical staff will give you personalized advice at your first appointment.

We offer several different types of peels, and are adding new treatments and procedures all the time! The specific peel recommended for each patient differs depending on many factors: is it your first peel, your skin type, your skin problems, and your skin goals.

Lactic Acid Vivier Peel:

10% Lactic Acid, 2% Salicylic Acid, 14% Resorcinol

Designed to rejuvenate the skin, The Vivier Peel is a medical grade, professional, and effective option to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, minimize dilated pores, treat hyperpigmentation, sun damage, acne and scarring with no downtime. Your skin will glow, and you will leave healthier and brighter. The Vivier Peel offers predictable and controlled micro-exfoliation to promote skin rejuvenation, clarity and radiance. Vivier Peels are often completed every 4 weeks, with a set of 3 initial peels, and then maintenance peels every 2-3 months, or prior to big events.

The Vivier Peel contains a rich exfoliating formula of predominantly Lactic Acid. It also contains Resorcinal and a low dose of Salicylic Acid. This makes it a very well tolerated chemical peel, your skin will likely not shed and peel at all, but the natural acids are rapidly exfoliating the skin. For patients needing a gentle glow, general skin care, or have overly sensitive skin, or are new to peels, the Vivier Peel is always are “go-to” peel.

A Vivier Peel is great for skin maintenance, and for those that have a big event coming up that they want to look their best for. It helps remove any of the greying and uneven skintone by getting rid of any dead skin cells sitting on your face and clogging your complexion and pores. It will bring back a glow to your face. 

Jessner “Acne” Peel:

14% Salicylic Acid, 14% Lactic Acid, 14% Resorcinol

The Jessner Peel is similar to the Vivier Peel, but the acid percentages are higher. A Salicylic Acid focused peel, the 14% acid allows for highly targeted treatment of Acne, Rosacea and Hyperpigmentation.

A Jessner Peel is considered to be a concentrated medium to deep peel that’s suitable for all skin types. The depth of the peel depends on the individual patient’s needs, and their specific skin sensitivity and tolerance. The Jessner Peel is designed to be aggressive in targeting hyperpigmentation, including strong sun damage and scarring, as well as minimizing fine lines and reducing pore size, tightening and evening out skin texture. The Jessner Peel is very effective in the treatment of Acne and Rosacea type breakouts. The results of the deeply penetrating Jessner Peel can be seen following your first treatment, giving your complexion a radiant, healthy and refreshed appearance.  We recommend a minimum of 3-6 treatments, each spaced a minimum of 4 weeks apart.

Higher strength deeper peels allow for more targeted treatment of more severe skin conditions. The Jessner Chemical Peel is a safe and effective way of maintaining your skin.

Glycolic Acid Peel:

Variable Percentage – Medium to Deep Peel

The Glycolic Acid Peel is a general, all purpose peel that with higher percentages can more effectively treat a whole range of skin issues. Fine lines, wrinkles, melasma, hyperpigmentation, and general aging of the skin. We typically will start someone on a Vivier Peel, then if tolerating will transition to a low percentage glycolic peel and then scale up the percentage based on skin tolerance. 

A Glycolic Acid Peel is considered to be a concentrated medium to deep peel that’s suitable for all skin types. The depth of the peel depends on the individual patient’s needs, and their specific skin sensitivity and tolerance. The Glycolic Acid Peel is designed to be aggressive in targeting hyperpigmentation, including strong sun damage and scarring, as well as minimizing fine lines and reducing pore size, tightening and evening out skin texture. The results can be seen following your first treatment, giving your complexion a radiant, healthy and refreshed appearance.  .

Trichloroacetic Acid Peel (TCA):

Variable Percentage – Medium to Very Deep Peel

The Trichloroacetic Acid TCA Peel is a medium to very deep peel that is considered the “gold standard” of peels. It is the strongest form of peel, and all other peels are compared to it. But that doesn’t mean it is necessarily the best or safest choice for you. Speak to Dr. Dawood to determine if this is the right peel for your skin. TCA peels are great to treat all skin related issues including aging skin, fine lines, wrinkles, melasma and more. The ideal is for all patients to eventually be put onto TCA peels (if its safe for your skin)

A Trichloroacetic Acid TCA Peel is considered to be a concentrated medium to very deep peel. The depth of the peel depends on the individual patient’s needs, and their specific skin sensitivity and tolerance. The TCA Peel is designed to be very aggressive in targeting hyperpigmentation, including strong sun damage and scarring, as well as minimizing fine lines and reducing pore size, tightening and evening out skin texture. Sometimes a TCA peel is combined with a Jessner Peel for maximum acne treatment.

How Do Chemical Peels Work?

Chemical peels use naturally occurring exfoliating acids to treat the top layer of skin and trigger a response from the skin layers below. Your skin naturally will exfoliate itself, but it happens too slowly to adequately treat skin damage, aging, acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, and other issues like fine lines/wrinkles. Chemical Peels will promote the shedding of skin, reduce oil production, treat hyperpigmentation, and have many other anti-aging benefits. These benefits can help improve skin tone, texture, and restore glow, radiance and youthfulness.

What is the difference between the acids?

Salicylic Acid is keratolytic in nature and will dissolve hardened skin cells.  It also dissolves oil and skin debris that cause white and blackheads, while also containing anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness from breakouts and scarring. Peels with high strength Salicylic Acid are great for treatment of Acne, Rosacea, and Hyperpigmentation. 

Lactic Acid is one of the gentlest acids and is actually derived from milk. It helps the skin maintain its natural pH, while also adding hydration, it also treats hyperpigmentation, age spots, and dull skin by killing germs, removing toxins, and shedding dead skin. 

Glycolic Acid is an AHA type acid that is a great all purpose acid for treating and improving the health and appearance of the skin. It improves tone, texture, and complexion. Glycolic acid is typically applied in office at higher percentages, or at low percentages in home use products. When applied in office glycolic acid must be neutralized post treatment. 

Trichloroacetic Acid is a strong, but self neutralizing acid that is applied in office for maximum skin treatment. It is great for treating all sorts of skin issues and is the strongest and “best” acid to use (as long as your skin can handle it and it is safe to use for you).

Resorcinol is an organic component of many chemical peels. It has natural antiseptic properties, which can help treat Acne and Acne Scarring. The main power of Resorcinol is its power to help lighten and brighten the skin, and treat primarily issues of hyperpigmentation. It is commonly added to peels because of these strong benefits.

Chemical Peel Aftercare:

Chemical peels are well tolerated by most patients. Vivier Peels often require no downtime, and most patients return to their regular work, school, and life routine immediately after a peel. Application of sunscreen post peel is important, and proper sun protection is recommended. We also recommend avoiding retinol based products for 2 weeks after a Vivier Peel. A Jesser Peel, Glycolic Peel, or TCA Peel can be much stronger, and some patients may notice some shedding and skin peeling for several days after the peel, this is normal. Avoidance of retinol is also recommended for a few days, with use of sunscreen and sun protection for 2 weeks post peel. Although you should be using sunscreen daily anyways!

After a chemical peel, it is essential to stay away from the sun as your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays. You’ll want to avoid the sun and sun tanning until healing is complete (for a Vivier Peel there will probably be no downtime, but for a Jessner Peel, Glycolic or TCA Peel it could be a few days). SPF should be used daily (and used regardless of a chemical peel). If sun exposure is not avoided during the healing phase, hyperpigmentation could occur. Avoid any picking of the peeling skin as this will cause scarring. 

What does Chemical Peel Treatment look like?

Treatment is very straightforward and most patients are in and out of the office within 30 minutes. Skin is cleansed and toned as much as possible. After cleansing and toning, the skin is now prepared and ready for the actual acid to be applied. Regardless of whether the skincare analyst has selected a Vivier or a Jessner peel, a test patch is applied and “hot spots” are watched for. If there is immense discomfort, your skin is too sensitive for a peel (this almost never happens, but we take all precautions). If there are no “hot spots”, then the peel is then applied to the rest of the face. The peel is left to penetrate on the skin for about 5 minutes. A corrective agent may then be applied on top, which can be anything from a retinol to vitamin c, to hyaluronic acid, brightening serum or growth factors. A neutralizing agent is then applied, followed by sunscreen. The entire procedure is quick, no anesthetic is needed, and is tolerated by most patient’s without discomfort. 

Glow Medical Facial:

Our in-house formulated “Glow Medical Facial”. This is not your typical “spa facial”. Our Glow Medical Facial uses high quality, medical grade ingredients and combines the best part of a Facial, with the best part of a Peel. This high grade cleansing and exfoliating medical grade facial fights aging, treats acne and scarring, rosacea, melasma, and fine lines and wrinkles. Only high grade Medical Grade Products will be applied during your Facial. You will leave with healthier, glowing, and more radiant, youthful skin.

A Glow Medical Facials starts with cleansing and toning of the skin, followed by application of a Vivier Peel. Post peel application your skin will have multiple high grade medical serums applied. These serums are potent growth factor containing formulations to deliver powerful peptides, vitamins, and minerals to the skin. If the patient desires a Microneedling treatment can also be done during this time (at additional cost) for maximum skin rejuvenation.

Any Downtime?

Downtime is minimal. There may be some redness or peeling post-treatment for 1-2 days. Avoiding excessive sun exposure day of and several days after is a must! We also recommend using one of our recommended brands of sunscreen to protect your skin.

At Kitchener Waterloo Cosmetic Clinic all treatments are done under the Medical Directive of Dr. Rayhaan Dawood MD. CCFP. We are a medical facility and take your care seriously. Our staff are professionally trained and ready to attend your needs.

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