Chemical Peels - the Do's, Don'ts, Advantages & Benefits
Shelly Williamson Esnard, PA-C • December 23, 2025
The Chemical Peel
By Shelly Williamson Esnard, PA-C
Welcome to the very first edition of SKIN-fluence for 2026! As we step into a new year, there is no better time to talk about renewal. If 2025 was about “glass skin” and viral TikTok trends, 2026 is the year of the clinical comeback. We are returning to the tried-and-true medical treatments that deliver real, transformative results.
To kick things off, I want to dive deep into one of my absolute favorite treatments here at Williamson Cosmetic Center & Perenack Aesthetic Surgery: The Chemical Peel.
With over 25+ years of experience in aesthetic medicine, I’ve seen skincare trends come and go, but the chemical peel remains a gold standard for a reason. Whether you are looking to erase the sun damage from last summer or simply want that "lit-from-within" glow to start the year, peels are your secret weapon.
Why We Love the Peel (The Benefits)
Chemical peels aren't just about "peeling." They are about controlled regeneration. By applying a specialized acid solution, we remove the damaged outer layers of the skin, prompting your body to produce fresh collagen and healthy new cells. The benefits include:
- Diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.
- Fading hyperpigmentation and "age spots."
- Clearing acne and reducing the appearance of pores.
- Smoothing out rough skin texture.
The Do’s and Don’ts: To get the best results, you have to be a partner in your skincare.
DO:
- Wear SPF 30+ every single day. This is non-negotiable, especially post-peel.
- Hydrate. Drink water and use the post-care moisturizers we recommend.
- Be patient. Transformation takes time.
DON’T:
- PICK. If you see skin flaking, leave it alone! Picking can lead to scarring and hyperpigmentation.
- Use Retinol/Tretinoin. Stop these 3–5 days before your peel and wait until your skin is fully healed to restart.
- Sweat excessively. Avoid the sauna or intense HIIT workouts for the first 48–72 hours to prevent irritation.
The Post-Op Journey: What to Expect
Many patients ask, "Will I look like that famous Sex and the City episode?" The answer is no! Modern formulations allow us to customize the depth of the peel.
- Days 1-2: Your skin may feel tight or look slightly pink, similar to a mild sunburn.
- Days 3-5: This is when the "magic" happens. You’ll notice light flaking or peeling, usually starting around the mouth and nose.
- Day 7: Most patients are fully "revealed" with glowing, smoother skin.
Your Top 10 Chemical Peel Questions, Answered.
- Does it hurt? Most patients feel a warm, tingling, or "spicy" sensation for about 5–10 minutes. We use cooling fans to ensure you stay comfortable.
- How many treatments do I need? While one peel gives a great glow, a series of 3 to 6 treatments spaced a month apart is best for corrective work like acne scarring or deep pigment.
- Can I do this if I have a dark complexion? Absolutely. We have specific peels (like the VI Peel or customized peels for all skin types) that are safe and effective for all skin tones.
- Will my skin actually peel off in sheets? Not necessarily. Some of our most effective peels cause "micro-peeling" that you can barely see, but the cellular results are still happening!
- How long is the downtime? For a medium-depth peel, expect about 3–5 days of "social downtime" where you might be flaking, but you can usually go about your day-to-day life.
- Can I wear makeup? We prefer you wait at least 24–48 hours. Once the peeling starts, makeup can often highlight the flakes, so heavy hydration is better!
- Is it okay to get a peel in the winter? January is actually the perfect time. With less intense sun exposure, it’s the safest season to perform deeper resurfacing.
- Can a peel help with my acne? Yes. Certain peels use Salicylic acid to penetrate the pore and decrease oil production, helping to calm active breakouts.
- How do I maintain the results? A medical-grade skincare regimen is key. I always tell my patients: "We do the heavy lifting in the clinic, but you maintain the results at home."
- Why should I come to Williamson Cosmetic Center for this? Experience matters. Because we are a medical facility led by myself and Dr. Perenack, we have access to higher-strength, medical-grade acids that you simply cannot get at a standard day spa. We prioritize safety and customized results.
At Williamson Cosmetic Center & Perenack Aesthetic Surgery, we aren't just following trends; we are setting the standard for clinical excellence in Louisiana. If you’re ready to shed the old and embrace the new, come see any of our wonderful medical aestheticians this month. Let’s make 2026 your most radiant year yet.
Ready to glow? Book your consultation here or call us at (225) 927-7546.
Stay Radiant,
In today's world, achieving your ideal physique isn't just about diet and exercise. Sometimes, stubborn pockets of fat or loose skin simply won't budge, no matter how much effort you put in. This is where the world of cosmetic body sculpting steps in, offering precision, contouring, and the final touch to your fitness journey. Body sculpting is not a single procedure but a broad term encompassing various surgical and non-surgical treatments designed to reshape and improve the contours of specific areas of the body. Beyond the Gym: What is Body Sculpting? Body sculpting procedures are focused on contouring, not weight loss. They are ideal for individuals who are near their goal weight but struggle with localized issues. Common procedures include: Liposuction: A classic surgical technique that removes unwanted fat deposits to refine shape, often used on the abdomen, thighs, arms, or neck. Tummy Tucks (Abdominoplasty): A surgical solution for removing excess skin and fat while tightening weakened abdominal muscles—often a concern after pregnancy or significant weight loss. Non-Surgical Fat Reduction: Procedures like cryolipolysis (fat freezing) or radiofrequency treatments use advanced technology to destroy fat cells without incisions or downtime. The goal across all these methods is the same: to create smoother lines, a more toned appearance, and a physique that aligns with your self-image. Finding Your Ideal Shape So, who is a good candidate for body sculpting? Generally, the best candidates are healthy adults with stable body weight, who do not smoke, and who have realistic expectations about the outcome. It is crucial to remember that these procedures are body-enhancers, not magic wands. They provide the finishing touches that diet and exercise couldn't achieve, helping to reveal the muscle tone and structure underneath the persistent fat or loose skin. The Critical Choice: Selecting Your Specialist Because body sculpting involves intricate procedures and a deep understanding of human anatomy and aesthetics, the most critical step in the journey is selecting the right medical professional. You need a practice that combines surgical excellence, cutting-edge technology, and a personalized approach to your goals. For those considering advanced aesthetic procedures, Williamson Cosmetic Center & Perenack Aesthetic Surgery is for you. Our focus on personalized care and the full spectrum of cosmetic solutions—from surgical to non-invasive—underscores the importance of choosing a facility with proven experience and expertise. To learn more about our approach to body contouring and to see if a particular procedure is right for you, you can explore all of our offerings at Williamson Cosmetic Center & Perenack Aesthetic Surgery . The Confidence Payoff Ultimately, the results of successful body sculpting extend far beyond the physical changes. Patients frequently report a significant boost in self-confidence, a renewed enthusiasm for fitness, and a more positive body image. Being able to look in the mirror and see the results of both your hard work and surgical artistry can be a profoundly empowering experience. If you are ready to take the final step toward achieving your aesthetic goals, consulting with a board-certified specialist is the best way to determine the right path for your body sculpting journey.
Hair loss is a deeply personal experience, often affecting more than just appearance—it can impact confidence, self-esteem, and how we feel about aging. Fortunately, the field of aesthetic medicine has advanced dramatically, offering a comprehensive array of effective and natural-looking hair restoration solutions. If you’ve been considering addressing hair thinning or balding, now is the perfect time to explore your options. Here is a look at the most prominent and effective methods available today. 1. Surgical Hair Transplantation: The Gold Standard Hair transplant surgery has evolved from dated, unnatural-looking plugs into sophisticated, minimally invasive procedures that yield virtually undetectable results. The goal of modern transplantation is to redistribute healthy, permanent hair follicles from a donor area (usually the back or sides of the scalp) to the recipient area. The two primary surgical techniques are: Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): This is the most popular method today. Individual hair follicles are harvested directly from the scalp using a micro-punch tool. Since it doesn't require a linear incision, it results in tiny, dot-like scars that are almost invisible, allowing patients to wear their hair short. Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT or "Strip Method"): This technique involves surgically removing a small strip of tissue from the donor area. Follicles are then separated and transplanted. While it leaves a linear scar (which can be easily covered by longer hair), it can often yield a high number of grafts in a single session. Both methods are performed under local anesthesia and, when executed by an experienced surgeon, can produce natural density and a seamless hairline. 2. Non-Surgical Therapies: Boosting Existing Growth Not all hair restoration requires surgery. For those with early-stage thinning or who are looking to supplement surgical results, non-surgical therapies can be highly effective: Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP is an injectable therapy that utilizes the body’s own growth factors. A small sample of the patient’s blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to isolate the plasma, which is highly concentrated with platelets. This plasma is then strategically injected into the scalp to stimulate dormant hair follicles, increase blood supply, and prolong the growing phase of the hair cycle. Topical Treatments and Oral Medications: Medications like Minoxidil and Finasteride remain clinically proven options for slowing hair loss and encouraging new growth, forming the foundational maintenance regimen for many patients. Vitamin Regimens: Specific vitamins and supplements, when combined with other treatments, can help support overall hair health from the inside out. Choosing the Right Path Forward The best hair restoration plan is always a customized one. Hair loss is unique to every individual, requiring a comprehensive assessment of the cause, hair type, degree of loss, and overall goals. When seeking a permanent solution, it is essential to choose a highly accredited facility with a dedicated cosmetic surgeon and staff who specialize in hair restoration. For example, Williamson Cosmetic Center & Perenack Aesthetic Surgery offers a full range of advanced solutions to meet diverse patient needs. Their services include Hair Transplant Surgery utilizing techniques like the latest Neograft Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Strip Method Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) , along with non-surgical treatments like Injectable therapies (PRP) , topical treatments, and custom vitamin regimens. If you are ready to explore a future with a fuller, more youthful head of hair, consulting with experts at a specialized center can help you determine the optimal strategy for your personal journey. To learn more about hair restoration and other cosmetic and aesthetic services, you can visit Williamson Cosmetic Center & Perenack Aesthetic Surgery at https://www.williamsoncosmeticcenter.com .
The face is our most expressive feature, often the first thing people notice and a primary source of confidence. Over time, factors like sun exposure, gravity, and the natural aging process can lead to changes that might not align with how vibrant we feel inside. This is where the world of cosmetic facial plastic surgery offers remarkable solutions, helping individuals restore a youthful appearance and achieve facial harmony. Modern facial rejuvenation is less about radical transformation and more about subtle, beautiful enhancement—allowing the face to look rested, refreshed, and naturally younger. Popular Procedures in Facial Plastic Surgery Cosmetic facial surgery encompasses a variety of procedures designed to address specific concerns. Some of the most sought-after include: Facelift (Rhytidectomy): Considered the gold standard for comprehensive facial rejuvenation, a facelift addresses sagging skin, deep creases below the lower eyelids, and jowls. It works to tighten the underlying muscles and reposition the skin on the face and neck, creating a smoother, more defined contour. Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty): Often one of the first procedures people consider, blepharoplasty corrects droopy upper eyelids and bags under the eyes. By removing excess fat, skin, and muscle, it can significantly brighten the eye area, making a person look more alert and less fatigued. Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery): This procedure is focused on enhancing the balance and proportion of the face by altering the size, shape, or angle of the nose. It can be performed for cosmetic reasons, functional reasons (to improve breathing), or both. Neck Lift (Lower Rhytidectomy): Frequently performed alongside a facelift, a neck lift addresses issues like "turkey wattle" or vertical neck bands, creating a sharper, more youthful line between the jaw and neck. The Importance of Choosing the Right Surgeon The decision to pursue facial plastic surgery is a significant one, and the most crucial step is selecting the right surgical team. The outcomes are dependent not only on technical skill but also on the surgeon’s aesthetic eye and ability to understand and fulfill the patient's unique goals. When researching, prioritize surgeons who are board-certified and have extensive, specialized experience in facial plastic surgery. Look for a practice that emphasizes personalized consultations, patient education, and a dedicated post-operative care plan. You should feel comfortable with your surgeon’s philosophy on achieving natural-looking results. For those in the Gulf South region seeking a practice with a reputation for excellence and meticulous care, Williamson Cosmetic Center & Perenack Aesthetic Surgery is a leading example. We are committed to providing comprehensive, patient-focused treatments, offering everything from advanced surgical procedures to minimally invasive options. Our dedication to combining surgical expertise with an artistic approach ensures that every patient's result is tailored and harmonious. The Confidence Factor Ultimately, cosmetic facial plastic surgery is not just about changing your appearance; it’s about investing in your confidence and well-being. By choosing a qualified, compassionate professional, you can embark on a journey that leads to a refreshed appearance that beautifully reflects your inner vitality.
