Cleopatra, the legendary Egyptian queen, was admired for many things, including her flawless complexion. Even in 30 BC, she knew the secret to beautiful skin—chemical peels. She indulged in milk baths rich in lactic acid, a natural exfoliant. Today, chemical peels have evolved into a widely popular cosmetic procedure, utilizing natural ingredients like glycolic acid from sugar cane and salicylic acid from willow bark to exfoliate, renew, and revitalize the skin.
At Bucay Center for Dermatology & Aesthetics, Dr. Vivian Bucay, a nationally recognized dermatologist with over three decades of experience, brings her expertise to every chemical peel treatment. Her deep understanding of skin care and rejuvenation ensures a personalized and effective approach for each patient.
What Is A Chemical Peel?
Chemical peels are a non-invasive cosmetic procedure designed to exfoliate the skin by eliminating its damaged outer layers, promoting a smoother and more even skin tone. This treatment effectively addresses a wide range of skin concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation issues, and blemishes. During the procedure, a specialized chemical solution is applied to the skin, which accelerates the shedding of dead cells and stimulates the production of fresh, new skin cells while boosting collagen for improved texture and rejuvenation.
At Bucay Center for Dermatology & Aesthetics, we offer different levels of chemical peels, from mild to strong, depending on your individual needs. Lighter peels are ideal for refreshing the skin, while deeper peels can address more significant concerns, such as deeper wrinkles or pronounced scarring. Regardless of the formulation or intensity, the main objective of a chemical peel is to revitalize the skin, making it brighter, smoother, and healthier. Each treatment is customized to address your specific skin care needs and goals.
What Can Chemical Peels Do For Your Skin?
Peels are a comfortable, non-invasive, non-surgical means to improve the appearance of:
- Acne and acne scars
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun damage
- Melasma (hyperpigmentation)
- Age spots
- Tone and texture imperfections
- On the face, neck, and chest.
Types of Chemical Peels We Offer at Bucay Center for Dermatology & Aesthetics
SkinMedica
At Bucay Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics, we offer three SkinMedica peel products. If you are a rewards member, you will receive Alle Points with the purchase of SkinMedica treatments.
- SkinMedica Illuminize Peel: SkinMedica's Illuminize Peel is an appropriate choice for treating mild skin imperfections. This peel aims to brighten the skin and create a more uniform tone and complexion.
- SkinMedica Rejuvenize Peel: SkinMedica's Rejuvenize Peel is appropriate for moderate-to-severe skin imperfections. This peel is ideal for treating the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
- SkinMedica Vitalize Peel: SkinMedica's Vitalize Peel is appropriate for treating mild skin imperfections. The peel provides smooth, even-toned, radiant skin with little to no downtime. It is also effective in treating wrinkles and fine lines.
PCA Peels
We are also proudly offering PCA peels. We carry the Sensi Peel, Smoothing Body Peel, and 6% Retinol Peel.
Sensi Peel
Sensi Peel is a unique chemical peel option for all patients, including those with sensitive skin. This universal 6% TCA solution will improve surface texture and brighten the skin while helping promote an even skin tone. This multi-faceted and skin-brightening treatment is an excellent option for sensitive skin and higher Fitzpatrick skin types.
Key Benefits:
- Improves surface texture and brightens skin
- Promotes an even skin tone
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Smoothing Body Peel (Price Dependent On Body Part Treated)
This treatment is an excellent choice for promoting an even skin tone and clear complexion on the arms, legs, back, chest, hands, and feet.
Key Benefits:
- Pre-Peel Accelerator Mask (Step 1) provides nourishing ingredients that soften and hydrate the skin's surface
- Smoothing Body Peel (Step 2) improves the appearance and texture of the skin with a combination of exfoliating, smoothing, and brightening ingredients
- This treatment is an excellent choice for promoting an even skin tone and clear complexion on the arms, legs, back, chest, hands, and feet;
6% Retinol Peel
The most suitable candidates for this more active retinoid treatment are those with normal to resilient skin. 6% Pure Retinol Peel provides dramatic and rapid rejuvenation of the skin. The skin is protected from free radical damage by providing additional antioxidants within the formula. Skin is visibly smoother, brighter, and more evenly toned. Note: For Physicians' Use Only.
Key Benefits:
- 6% Pure Retinol Peel is indicated for those who want extreme skin rejuvenation
- Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, and smooths the skin's texture
- Patients should expect dramatic peeling and sheeting beginning two to three days post-treatment and lasting for up to ten days
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Chemical Peels Safe?
Yes, chemical peels are safe when performed by a qualified and experienced dermatologist. While you may see peels offered at salons and day spas, it's essential to prioritize your skin health by entrusting your care to a skilled cosmetic dermatologist. Dr. Bucay has the training, experience, and in-depth knowledge of chemical peel formulations to recommend the most appropriate and effective treatment for your skin type.
What is the Chemical Peel Recovery Time?
A light peel is a pampering treatment with no downtime. You may return to normal activities right away, wearing good quality make-up. Others won't know you've had a dermatological procedure done, but be prepared – they may comment that you look radiant. Results continue to develop for several weeks. You'll enjoy it so much that you may want to schedule treatment once a month. After a stronger peel, you may experience some redness and flaking for up to a week, revealing a revived complexion with long-lasting results.
How Do I Know Which Type of Chemical Peel Is Right for Me?
During your consultation, Dr. Bucay will assess your skin type and concerns to recommend the best peel for you. Superficial peels are great for minor problems, while medium or deep peels target more significant skin issues. Each treatment is personalized for optimal results.
How Long Does a Chemical Peel Procedure Take?
A chemical peel typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the type of peel and the areas being treated. It's a relatively quick procedure, making it convenient for those with busy schedules. After the peel, you can resume most daily activities unless otherwise advised by Dr. Bucay.
What Should I Do to Prepare for a Chemical Peel?
To prepare for a chemical peel, avoid sun exposure and discontinue exfoliating or retinoid products 5 to 7 days before your appointment. Dr. Bucay may also recommend pausing certain medications or skin care products to reduce irritation. It's important to hydrate your skin and avoid treatments like waxing or dermabrasion leading up to your peel. Detailed pre-treatment instructions will be provided based on your skin type and the peel you receive.
Why Choose Dr. Bucay For Chemical Peel?
Dr. Vivian Bucay is a nationally and internationally recognized expert in dermatology, known for her combination approach to minimally invasive facial rejuvenation. With a career spanning over three decades, she has earned a reputation as one of the most respected dermatologists in the country. Dr. Bucay's expertise in chemical peels and her deep understanding of skin health make her uniquely qualified to deliver outstanding, personalized results.
Her extensive credentials include a background in biomedical research, patient care, and medical education. Licensed to practice in both the United States and Mexico, Dr. Bucay brings a global perspective to her practice. Since opening our private practice in 1991, she has continued to advance her knowledge while also serving as a Clinical Assistant Professor at the UT Health Science Center San Antonio, where she mentors future healthcare professionals.
When you choose Dr. Bucay for your chemical peel, you're choosing a leader in dermatology who is committed to providing the highest level of care, safety, and expertise.
Achieve Radiant Skin in San Antonio, TX
Because the health and appearance of your skin is critical to you, it is also vitally important to us. Dr. Bucay has years of experience administering chemical peels and has personally trained her staff in performing these peels. You can feel comfortable and confident that you are in the best hands for your skin rejuvenation treatment.
Are you ready for fresher, more youthful skin with smooth tone and texture? Contact Dr. Bucay at 210.692.3000 or 210.370.9995 to learn more about chemical peels.