How to Select a Professional for a Peel Treatment

Chemical peels exfoliate the upper layers of the skin to reveal healthier skin underneath. There are several levels of peels. Light peels can be applied at home or by an aesthetician. Medium and deep peels can only be applied by a medical professional. These peels are considered medical procedures and require some expertise. Doctors must have training to work with chemical peels, and you should choose who you allow to do the procedure very carefully.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Medical professional

1. Determine how strong of a peel you need. Mild skin problems may only require a light peel treatment that you can do at home or get done at a spa. If you have more severe skin issues like deep wrinkles, age spots or acne scarring, you should get a medium or deep peel performed by a medical professional.

2. Make a list of dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons in your area who offer chemical peels. Since your insurance will not likely cover the procedure, you don't have to worry about going out of network.

3. Call a few of the doctors on your list and ask about their experience and training with chemical peels. You don't want to select a doctor who only does a few random peels here and there. Applying a peel is fairly straightforward, but being able to select the right peel for each patient requires intensive training and ongoing experience.

4. Schedule a consultation with a doctor who fits the bill. Take the opportunity to ask all of your questions about the procedure and see before and after pictures of other patients who have received chemical peels.

5. Talk to your doctor about what treatment is appropriate for your skin type and goals. Select a doctor who can speak knowledgeably about a variety of peels and other options, rather than peddling just one product.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask friends or coworkers for recommendations for cosmetic surgeons or dermatologists. Doctors who specialize in cosmetic procedures get many of their patients through patient referrals.
• Run a check on the credentials and licensing of your doctor before undergoing any procedure. Your state should be able to tell you if there are any outstanding lawsuits or disciplinary actions of which you should be aware.
• Don't bargain shop when it comes to a medical treatment like a chemical peel. You don't want to choose doctors based on how much they charge.
• Be discriminating in who you allow to perform light peels as well. Just because the peel is minimally invasive doesn't mean you should let just anyone do it. Only go to reputable spas and salons, or do the job yourself.