Chemical Peels

Chemical Peel Procedures & Options

Mississauga Cosmetic Surgery Clinic offers a variety of chemical peels, allowing us to treat the majority of skin types. Some of the peels available include Alpha hydroxyl acid, Lactic acid, Salicylic acid and Glycolic acid peels. In addition, we feature AFA peels, which are useful for darker-skinned patients and can be performed in the summer months since they do not result in sun sensitivity. Dr. Michael J. Weinberg also administers a Trichloroacetic acid peel, which is a deeper and more corrective peel for severely sun damaged skin with deep lines and wrinkles.

At our office in Mississauga, the chemical peel formula is applied to the skin for a controlled length of time from 1 to 10 minutes, depending on the type of peel, skin type and desired effect. Glycolic acid and Alpha hydroxyl acid peels are the mildest peels, with Salicylic acid being somewhat stronger. These peels are most suitable for light-skinned individuals as pigment changes can result in those with darker complexions.

AFA (Amino Acid Filaggrin-based Antioxidants) Peels contain acidic amino acids. AFAs may help to promote moisture retention, reduce photopigmentation, and exfoliate the skin with minimal irritation. In contrast to other peels, they provide beautiful results in people with darker skin, without hyper- or hypopigmentation. This treatment typically begins with a 2-week home treatment accomplished prior to the peel. These peels are ideal for patients with dry, sensitive skin.

Other exciting peels offered at the clinic, and not found at non medical facilities, include combination peels, in which more than one type of acid is used, such as salicylic/azelaic acid peels, great for acne, and peels containing mandelic acid, another compound that can be used safely in darker skinned individuals. We also offer other even more powerful peels aimed specifically at melasma treatment, as well as physician TCA peels.

Trichloroacetic acid peels (TCA) are deeper peels that remove the entire epidermis and some of the skin dermis. This peel, which should be administered only by an experienced physician, involves applying the liquid acid in layers, resulting in a temporary “frosted” appearance. After the 15-minute procedure, patients often discover that their wrinkles have been smoothed away, although experiences vary. It also treats superficial blemishes and improves the skin’s color, texture and thickness. It is suitable for fair-skinned people with more markedly damaged or aged complexions. This peel is not appropriate for darker skin, as permanent pigment changes can occur.

Chemical Peel Cost in Mississauga & Toronto

Chemical peels in Toronto and Mississauga are often used in combination with other treatments such as microdermabrasion or IPL to enhance results. To help you achieve all your cosmetic goals, Dr. Weinberg looks forward to discussing other procedures, like microdermabrasions and IPL photofacials, that can be combined with a chemical peel during your consultation.

After Your Procedure

Experiences after a chemical peel depend on the peel applied and individual factors. You may experience a feeling of tingling or heat. There may be some mild redness or dryness afterward, but there is usually no downtime. Patients often return to work the same day. However, in the case of a TCA peel, patients may be red and blistered for 10 days to 2 weeks. Chemical peels can stimulate an outbreak of cold sores, so patients prone to them should take antiviral medication. Patients should use sunscreen for several days afterward as the skin will be more photosensitive. In addition, strong medications like Retin-A should be avoided for a few days. For optimal benefit, peels should sometimes be repeated several times over a number of weeks to months, or used in combination with other treatments like microdermabrasion, IPL and /or at home skin care products.

Request Your Consultation

To learn more about chemical peels, call our office at  (905) 273-3045 (Mississauga) or  (416) 207-9090 (Toronto) or request an appointment online. Dr. Weinberg looks forward to meeting with you and helping you achieve your aesthetic goals.