A chemical peel uses a safe chemical solution to exfoliate damaged outer layers of skin, revealing a smoother, brighter, more youthful complexion. Peels can improve fine lines, wrinkles, acne, mild scarring, sun damage, uneven pigmentation, and overall texture. A series of 3–5 treatments provides the best results.
What Chemical Peels Can Treat
Commonly performed on the face, neck, and hands, chemical peels can reduce:
Fine lines and early signs of aging
Sun damage
Certain types of acne
Mild scarring
Sun spots, age spots, freckles, uneven tone
Rough texture and dull complexion
Melasma and hormone-related pigmentation
Precancerous scaly patches (actinic keratosis)
Note: Deep wrinkles, sagging skin, or significant scarring may require more advanced treatments such as CO₂ laser resurfacing, injectables, or surgical procedures.
Are Chemical Peels Suitable for All Skin Types?
Superficial peels are generally safe for all skin types.
However, deeper peels carry a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones. Clients with a history of abnormal scarring, pigment issues, sensitive skin conditions, or those unable to avoid sun exposure may need alternative treatments.
Types of Chemical Peels
Light Peel:
Removes the outermost layer of skin for a fresh, healthy glow. Best for fine lines, mild discoloration, acne, and dryness. Minimal downtime—typically a few hours to a few days.
Medium Peel:
Targets the outer and upper middle skin layers to smooth texture and improve moderate discoloration, age spots, and acne scarring. Downtime is about 7–10 days.
Deep Peel:
Penetrates the lower middle layer of the skin for the most dramatic improvement in deeper wrinkles, sun damage, scars, and actinic keratosis. Recovery is longer and more involved.
How to Prepare
Avoid tanning or direct sun exposure for 2 weeks prior
Avoid retinoids for 1–2 weeks unless otherwise directed
Skin must be free of open sores, lesions, or infections
What to Expect During Treatment
A chemical solution is applied, creating a warm or tingling sensation followed by brief stinging. The peel is then neutralized or removed, and post-care products may be applied.
Aftercare Expectations
After a Light Peel:
Mild redness and flaking for 3–7 days
Moisturize as instructed and use daily sunscreen
Makeup may be worn same day or next day
Treatments may be repeated every 2–5 weeks
After a Medium Peel:
Redness, swelling, and flaking for 7–14 days
Blistering and crusting may occur before peeling
Avoid sun exposure until fully healed
Makeup can usually be worn after 5–7 days
Can be repeated every 6–12 months if needed
General Post-Care Tips
Avoid indoor/outdoor tanning throughout the healing process
Use daily sunscreen after healing
Keep skin moisturized to support healing and prevent scarring
Follow all post-treatment instructions and use the provided post-care kit