Facial & Skin Peels

A chemical peel is the controlled application of an acid solution, typically an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) such as glycolic or mandelic, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) such as salicylic, or trichloroacetic acid (TCA) at higher depths, to accelerate desquamation of the outer skin layers and encourage regeneration below.

Superficial peels address dullness, rough texture, mild hyperpigmentation, and congestion. Medium-depth peels can improve fine lines, more established pigmentation (including some forms of melasma), and sun damage. Choice of peel is matched to skin type, concern, and downtime tolerance.

Not always. Superficial peels often produce only mild flaking for 2 to 4 days. Medium peels can produce more noticeable sheet-like peeling for 5 to 7 days. The visible peel is not the point of the treatment, biological turnover continues even without dramatic shedding.

Skin is typically pre-conditioned with prescription retinoid and antioxidant topicals for 2 to 4 weeks before a medium peel. Post-peel, SPF 50 is non-negotiable for at least 2 weeks, and fragrance, exfoliants, and retinoids are paused until the skin has fully recovered.

Chemical peels are avoided in pregnancy (for most acid strengths), during active cold sores or skin infection, in recent isotretinoin use (commonly a 6-month gap), and in certain higher Fitzpatrick skin types for stronger peels due to the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.