Chemical Peels
Chemical peels use carefully selected acids to remove damaged outer layers of skin, revealing smoother, brighter, more even-toned skin underneath. Peels range from gentle lunch-break treatments to deeper resurfacing procedures.
How they work (at a glance)
- •Controlled exfoliation: Acids dissolve bonds between dead skin cells for organized shedding.
- •Depth levels: Light (superficial), medium, and deep peels address different concerns.
- •Skin renewal: Stimulates cell turnover and can boost collagen production.
- •Customizable: Different acids (glycolic, salicylic, TCA, phenol) target specific issues.
Who's a good candidate?
- •You have concerns about texture, pigmentation, fine lines, or acne.
- •You can commit to proper aftercare and sun protection.
- •Your expectations match the peel depth—light peels give subtle results, deeper peels more dramatic.
- •You don't have active skin infections or certain medical conditions.
Pro Tip
Start with lighter peels to see how your skin responds before considering deeper treatments. A series of light peels often gives better results than one aggressive treatment.
Treatment day & recovery
Before:
- •Follow pre-treatment skincare instructions (may include stopping certain products).
- •Arrive with clean skin, no makeup or products.
During:
- •Skin is thoroughly cleansed and prepped.
- •Acid solution is applied methodically and timed precisely.
- •You may feel stinging, burning, or heat during application.
- •Neutralization or removal according to specific peel protocol.
After:
- •Light peels: minimal downtime, possible light flaking for days.
- •Medium peels: significant peeling and potential swelling for 1-2 weeks.
- •Deep peels: extensive recovery period with bandaging and medical supervision.
- •Strict sun protection essential during healing and long-term.
Safety & side effects
- •Common: redness, peeling, sensitivity, and temporary darkening before improvement.
- •Possible: prolonged redness, changes in pigmentation, or scarring with deeper peels.
- •Risk factors: darker skin tones have higher risk of pigmentation changes.
- •Critical: choose experienced providers who can assess your skin type and select appropriate peel depth.
- •Pre and post-treatment protocols are essential for safety and optimal results.
Cost considerations
- •Light peels are generally affordable and often done in series.
- •Medium and deep peels cost more but may require fewer treatments.
- •Factor in pre and post-treatment skincare products.
- •Consider series packages for light peels vs single deeper treatments.
- •Professional medical-grade peels offer better results than at-home options.
Selecting your peel
- •Match peel depth to your concerns, skin type, and downtime availability.
- •Start conservatively—you can always go deeper in future treatments.
- •Consider seasonal timing—post-peel sun sensitivity makes fall/winter ideal.
- •Ensure provider has experience with your skin type and specific concerns.
- •Discuss realistic expectations for your chosen peel depth.
Quick FAQ
How much peeling should I expect?
Light peels may cause minimal flaking, medium peels significant peeling for 7-14 days, and deep peels extensive peeling requiring weeks of recovery. The amount varies by individual.
Can I wear makeup after a chemical peel?
This depends on peel depth and your skin's response. Light peels may allow makeup the next day, while deeper peels require days to weeks of healing first.
How often can I get chemical peels?
Light peels can be done monthly, medium peels every few months to yearly, and deep peels are typically once-in-a-lifetime treatments. Your provider will recommend timing.
Quick Facts
30-60 minutes
3-6+ months
Varies by depth
Per session or series
Ready to Get Started?
Find qualified providers offering professional chemical peel treatments.
Find ProvidersGood Candidate?
- You have concerns about texture, pigmentation, or fine lines
- You can commit to proper aftercare and sun protection
- Your expectations match the appropriate peel depth
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View All TreatmentsThis overview is educational and not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a qualified injector to determine what's right for you.