Chemical Peels

What is a chemical peel?

Chemical peels are cosmetic treatments that involve using acids to exfoliate the skin. The acid removes a uniform amount of damaged skin cells across the treatment area.

All chemical peels remove a controlled amount of skin cells from the epidermis. A stronger peel may also remove a small part of the dermis.

Dermatologists may use chemical peels to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles or to address:

acne
enlarged pores
scarring
redness
hyperpigmentation
Skin rejuvenation
Improving skin tone, clarity, color, and texture

The process can cause swelling and peeling, which may take a few days up to two weeks to go away, depending on the depth and intensity of the peel.

Types of chemical peel

There are three types of chemical peel, based on how deeply they exfoliate the skin:

fine wrinkles
sun-damaged skin
minor hyperpigmentation
minor acne scars
Improving skin tone, clarity, color, and texture

Because superficial peels do not penetrate the deeper layers, skin tends to recover more quickly.

Superficial peels take 1–7 days to heal. It is important to wear sunscreen during this time.

Because superficial peels are the gentlest type, a person may need up to five sessions to see the results they want. People may be able to have superficial peels every 2–5 weeks.

Medium-depth peels

Medium-depth peels are recommended for:

fine to medium wrinkles
sun-damaged skin
mild to moderate hyperpigmentation
acne scars

Medium-depth peels take 7–14 days to heal. They cause swelling that worsens for 48 hours after the treatment.
Our dermatologist will provide extensive after care treatment and information.

Deep peels

Deep peels may be recommend if a person has:

moderate to severe sun damage
moderate to severe wrinkles
moderate to severe hyperpigmentation

Due to their strength, deep peels take 14–21 days to heal. A person needs to:

Recuperate at home.
Take antiviral medication for 10–14 days.
Wash the skin with a special solution between four and six times a day.
Apply an ointment for 14 days, then use a thick moisturizer.
Avoid makeup for at least 14 days.
Avoid sun exposure for 3–6 months.

Types of acid

Chemical peels can contain different types of acids:

Alpha-hydroxy acids: Some examples include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and citric acid. At-home exfoliating treatments often contain these acids.
Beta-hydroxy acids: Salicylic acid is one example, and it is especially beneficial for acne-prone skin and enlarged pores.
Trichloroacetic acid: Dermatologists typically use this in medium or deep chemical peels.