Chemical Peels

Chemical peels apply a controlled acid solution to the skin's surface to accelerate the shedding of damaged outer cells and stimulate fresh cell turnover beneath. The acid type, concentration, and application time are calibrated to the depth of concern being treated.

Superficial peels using glycolic or lactic acid address texture and brightness with minimal downtime. Medium-depth treatments using TCA target pigmentation, acne scarring, and more established sun damage. The right peel depends on the skin's current condition, the concern being treated, and the amount of recovery time available.

When a peel solution is applied, the acid loosens the bonds between damaged keratinocytes in the outer skin layers, allowing them to shed more rapidly than they would naturally. As the skin heals, fresher cells with better hydration and more even pigmentation replace the shed layer.

Medium-depth peels additionally signal the dermis to produce more collagen as part of the healing response, gradually improving skin density and texture over weeks. Acne-specific peel formulations also regulate sebum production and reduce the bacterial and comedogenic activity that sustains chronic breakouts.

After treatment:

• Mild flushing and sensitivity are normal for the first few hours. Minor flaking or peeling typically begins around day two or three and resolves within a week for superficial peels. Do not pick or force peeling skin.
• Avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids, and active products for at least one week following treatment.
• Keep skin moisturized and apply SPF 30 or higher daily. The fresh skin is more vulnerable to UV-induced pigmentation changes.

Before treatment:

• Arrive with clean, dry skin. Inform your provider of any active skin conditions, recent sunburn, or use of prescription retinoids or antibiotics.

Ongoing:

A series of six biweekly sessions is the standard starting point for most concerns, with monthly maintenance thereafter to sustain results.

Uneven skin tone and texture

Sun damage and age spots

Hyperpigmentation

Active acne and post-acne marks

Enlarged or congested pores

Fine lines and surface-level wrinkles

During treatment

Sessions run 30 to 45 minutes. The provider applies the peel solution to clean skin and leaves it for a precisely timed interval before neutralizing and removing it. During this time, most patients feel a tingling or warmth that passes as the peel is removed. There is no downtime required, though the skin is sensitive for the remainder of the day.

After treatment

Results from a superficial peel are visible within 24 to 48 hours as the skin looks clearer and more refreshed. The deeper benefits — improved tone, reduced pigmentation, finer pore appearance — build over the course of a series.

Results timeline

A single peel has value, but the results compound meaningfully over repeated treatments. Improvement in tone, pigmentation, and texture accumulates across a full series, and monthly maintenance sustains what the course establishes.