A chemical peel is a body treatment technique used to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin using a chemical solution that causes the skin to blister and eventually peel off. The regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. Thus the term chemical peel is derived. Some types of chemical peels can be purchased and administered without a medical license, however it is advised you seek professional help from a plastic surgeon or dermatologist on a specific type of chemical peel before a procedure is performed. Dr. Wendy Gottlieb is proud to offer the Obagi Blue Peel System, a trichloroacetic acid peel procedure. Unlike common alpha-hydroxy peels or at-home procedures, the Obagi Blue Peel puts control of your treatment in professional hands. Based on your individual needs and skin condition, your skin professional determines the strength of the peel.

The Obagi Blue Peel uses Trichloracetic Acid (TCA) as the active ingredient mixed with the patented Blue Base from Obagi. Your skin professional will apply the Obagi Blue Peel based on your level of damage and your desired level of Transformation.

The Obagi Blue Peel procedure takes less than an hour in your Physician’s office and does not typically require sedation. Your skin professional will apply the Blue Peel typically to your face and neck. A mild burning sensation will occur that generally lasts only a few minutes. Then you may experience a bluish tint to your skin that usually washes off in 12 to 24 hours. Your skin professional will advise you on how many peels are needed to give you the desired result.

Depending on the strength and depth following the procedure, you will experience light swelling. Within two to three days, your skin will begin to peel. This peeling continues over the next several days. By the seventh to tenth day, your skin should be healed.

Once your skin has completely recovered and is finished peeling, you will notice a visible improvement in your complexion. Your skin’s appearance should continue to improve for the next four to six weeks, becoming firmer, clearer, smoother, healthier and more youthful looking.

Trichloroacetic Acid Peels

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is used as an intermediate to deep peeling agent in concentrations ranging from 20-50%. Depth of penetration is increased as concentration increases, with 50% TCA penetrating into the reticular dermis. Concentrations higher than 35% are not recommended because of the high risk of scarring.

Trichloroacetic acid peels:

• are referred for darker-skinned patients over Phenol
• smooth out fine surface wrinkles
• remove superficial blemishes
• correct skin pigment problems

Trichloroacetic acid peels may:

• require pre-treatment with Retin-A or AHA creams
• require repeat treatment to maintain results
• require the use of sunblock for several months (this is a must)
• take several days to healing depending on the peel depth

To schedule a consultation or an appointment at the Reston or Arlington office, please call 703-668-9499. You may also send an email to us using the form below: