CHEMICAL PEELS
Skin resurfacing, exfoliation and tone refinement
What are Chemical Peels and How Do They Work?
Chemical peels use a carefully selected acid solution applied to the skin surface to accelerate cell turnover and remove the outermost layers of dead or damaged skin.
As the treated skin sheds, fresher, smoother skin is revealed underneath. The depth of the peel determines how much exfoliation occurs and how long recovery takes.
Most Common Treatment Areas
Full Face
Overall resurfacing for texture, tone and glow improvement.
Pigmentation and Sun Damage
Reduce the appearance of uneven pigmentation, age spots and sun-damaged skin.
Acne and Congestion
Help clear blocked pores, reduce active breakouts and improve post-acne marks.
Fine Lines
Superficial peels can soften fine lines and improve overall skin smoothness.
Dull or Uneven Skin Tone
Brighten and even out skin tone across the face.
Neck and Décolletage
Extend resurfacing treatment beyond the face for consistent skin quality.
Peel Depths
Superficial Peels - Target the outermost layer of skin only. Minimal downtime - mild redness or flaking for one to three days. Suitable for most skin types for general brightness and maintenance.
Medium Peels - Reach the upper dermis for more significant resurfacing. More visible peeling over five to seven days. Used for pigmentation, moderate sun damage and uneven tone.
Deep Peels - Penetrate deeper into the dermis for significant resurfacing. Longer recovery of one to two weeks. Reserved for more pronounced concerns and carried out by experienced practitioners only.
What To Expect
A tingling or mild burning sensation during application is normal and typically brief. Superficial peels may cause mild redness and flaking for a few days. Medium peels produce more visible peeling and sensitivity over five to seven days. Sun avoidance and SPF are essential during and after the recovery period.
Longevity
A single peel can produce noticeable improvements in brightness and texture. A course of superficial peels spaced two to four weeks apart is commonly recommended for pigmentation or acne concerns. Results are maintained with a consistent skincare routine and sun protection.
Safety Notes
Chemical peels are not suitable for all skin types or tones without careful assessment. Darker skin tones carry a higher risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation and require specifically selected peel formulations. Active skin infections, open lesions, or recent use of certain medications may be contraindications. Anyone considering treatment should review suitability and risks with a qualified medical professional.
Approach And Outcomes
Peel selection should be matched to skin type, concern, and tolerance rather than applied as a one-size solution. Results are progressive — a course of treatments typically delivers more consistent improvement than a single session. Skin quality continues to improve in the weeks following treatment as cell renewal completes.
FAQ's
Will my skin peel visibly?
Superficial peels cause mild flaking rather than dramatic peeling. Medium peels produce more visible shedding over five to seven days. Your provider will set expectations based on the peel selected.
Is there downtime?
Superficial peels have minimal downtime - redness and mild flaking for one to three days. Medium peels require five to seven days of visible peeling and sun avoidance.
Does a chemical peel hurt?
A tingling or mild stinging sensation during application is normal and usually brief. Most people tolerate superficial and medium peels well.
How many treatments will I need?
A single session can improve brightness and texture. A course of three to six superficial peels is commonly recommended for pigmentation or acne concerns.
Can chemical peels be combined with other treatments?
They are commonly combined with a skincare routine using active ingredients to maintain results. Your provider will advise on suitable combinations and timing between treatments.
Related Reading
DisclaimerThis page is for information only. It is not medical advice or an offer of treatment.