Contraindications for Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is a skin-resurfacing procedure in which a chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove the top layers. The skin that grows back after a chemical peel is smoother and younger looking.

Chemical peels are used to treat acne, wrinkles, pigmentation and scarring — typically on the face but also on the chest and back.

Peels can be done at different depths — light, medium or deep — depending on desired results. Each type of chemical peel uses a different chemical solution.

A chemical peel can be used to treat various skin problems. Depending on the issues you’re addressing with the procedure, you’ll choose a chemical peel in one of three depths (source: Mayo Clinic):

• Light chemical peel. A light (superficial) chemical peel removes the outer layer of skin (epidermis). It can be used to treat fine wrinkles, acne, uneven skin tone and dryness. We offer light chemical peels every two weeks for the treatment of acne and anti-aging.
• Medium chemical peel. This type of chemical peel removes skin cells from the epidermis and from portions of the upper part of your middle layer of skin (dermis). A medium chemical peel can treat wrinkles, acne scars and uneven skin tone.
• Deep chemical peel. A deep chemical peel removes skin cells from the epidermis and from portions of the mid to lower layer of your dermis. Your doctor might recommend a deep chemical peel if you have deeper wrinkles, scars or precancerous growths. A deep chemical peel can only be performed once and must be performed under the direction of a doctor.

Contraindications for chemical peels

The following conditions are considered to be chemical peel contraindications. Contraindications to chemical peels must always be discussed with your skincare professional. If you have a concern, always ask your esthetician prior to receiving a peel.

• Use of Accutane®, Retin-A®, or other medications that exfoliate or thin the skin within 6 months
• Recent cosmetic surgery, laser resurfacing, deep or medium depth chemical peels or dermabrasion
• Severe rosacea or acne
• Easily scars or has hyper-pigmentation tendencies
• Pregnancy – always consult with your obstetrician prior to receiving chemical peels
• Breast-feeding
• Sunburn or irritated skin
• Open sores or lesions
• Infectious disease
• Active Herpes simplex
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Deficient immune system
• Permanent cosmetics–wait 7 days then cover with occlusive barrier

Sun Protection is vital to successful results.

After a chemical peel, you must avoid unprotected sun exposure to the skin immediately following a peel and put to at least a week. Sun protection is imperative to successful results from a chemical peel.

Chemical peels are an ideal treatment for people who suffer from acne. The peel sloughs aways dead skin cells that clog the pores, resulting in clearer skin.