Chemical Peels

Skin resurfacing through controlled chemical application

Chemical Peels have been a mainstay of Dermatology for decades. Only in recent years have lasers attempted to replace these trusted and effective methods of resurfacing your skin. Dr. Zaks’ experience with both methods allows him to tailor a treatment regimen that precisely resolves skin surface irregularities and maintains smooth and luminous skin.

• Pigmentation on the face, arms, chest, hands.
• Fine lines and wrinkles.
• Acne
• Clogged Pores
• Rough skin
• Dull skin
• Discoloration

“The Beta-Lift Peel is the best thing I’ve ever done for my skin. I had it to help with acne, but I got extras…my skin is clearer and smoother than I ever
remember.” Jan T.

How do Chemical Peels work?

There are basically four major types of chemical peel solutions:

• Alpha Hydroxy (Glycolic Acid – other fruit and sugar based acids)
• Beta Hydroxy (Salicylic Acid)
• Cosmelan
• TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid)

Chemical peels work by “ungluing” the top layer of damaged and discolored skin so it can peel away and reveal the fresh new skin beneath. By forcing the turnover of the cells, the old dull and damaged cells peel off much more quickly.

Lighter superficial peels using Alpha Hydroxy acids such as Glycolic Acid can be very effective in a series of “no downtime” procedures. Your skin will have a light pink look and flaking or peeling may be unnoticeable. Superficial peels are ideal for improving pigmentation problems, fine wrinkles and sun damage. They can be used anywhere on the face and body.

Special peels containing salicylic acid (beta hydroxy acid) are especially effective for those suffering from acne and oily skin. Salicylic acid has the ability to penetrate the pores as it is soluble in oil. Great for unclogging pores and improving acne. All peels can be adjusted to your skin type and condition, making them extremely customizable. Dr. Zaks is meticulous in the selection and application of your chemical peel.

Chemical Peel Los Angeles

Cosmelan has become the treatment of choice for melasma and especially for sensitive skin types prone to hyperpigmentation from sun exposure, heat or blemishes. Cosmelan works by blocking the action of the process that causes hyperpigmentation.

Cosmelan Advantages

• Effective in all kinds of melasma and chloasma.
• It can be used any time of the year.
• Compatible with all types of skin.
• It permits sun exposure without the risk of spots appearing.
• It is completely safe and does not include TCA or hydroquinone.
• There are minimal side effects (very little redness and flaking).
• Beneficial for acne patients by regularizing sebaceous secretion.
• Skin becomes bright and rejuvenated with lightening of spots and brown areas in just 10 days.

Moderate medium-depth peels result in a temporary all-over peeling with deeper pink tone to your skin for several days to a week. These peels are more effective on moderate wrinkles, precancerous skin growths and more problematic pigmentation. Mostly used on the face, medium peels are typically TCA peels.

Usually a TCA peel will produce enough peeling that you may wish to stay in for a few days. Discuss with Dr. Zaks which peel level works into your lifestyle.

What will a chemical peel feel like?

Dr. Zaks will first clean your skin of any oils. The chemical solution is either brushed on or applied with a pad. You may feel a slight stinging as the peel solution penetrates your skin.

Once removed, your skin will be moisturized and you will be advised to wear a sunscreen. Your skin will feel tight and will look rosy for a few hours to several days. Your chemical peel will cause some flaking and peeling.

Chemical peels may be augmented with Vbeam laser for resolving broken blood vessels or resistant pigmentation.