CHEMICAL PEELS
Office-based chemical peels are essential for maintaining and restoring skin’s health and appearance. Performed by a skincare professional, these exfoliating treatments help resurface the uppermost layer of the skin to reveal new, healthy skin underneath. Chemical peels are available in a variety of formulations and concentrations to target various skin concerns including fine lines and wrinkles, blemishes, enlarged pores, and uneven skin tone.
CHEMICAL PEELS explained
During the treatment, your skincare professional will apply one or more layers of a chemical peel solution onto skin for a specified amount of time. This is dependent on the type of chemical peel used, the concentration of the solution, skin type, and skin’s reactivity to the treatment. While some peels are self-neutralizing, most formulas need to be neutralized with a buffering solution or water upon completion of the treatment. The goal is to create a controlled, safe injury to the skin, thereby prompting skin to naturally repair itself and reveal newer, brighter skin.
It is important that chemical peels are performed by a licensed skincare professional with access to high-performing peel solutions that are clinically proven to deliver results. Your skincare professional may also recommend advanced homecare products to precondition skin or extend results.

Are you a CHEMICAL PEEL candidate?
Consult with your skincare professional to better understand the most appropriate type of chemical peel for your specific skin type.
WHAT TYPE OF CHEMICAL PEEL IS RIGHT FOR ME?
The physical solutions used in these chemical peel treatments fall into two general categories: water-soluble acids including alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and trichloroacetic acid (TCAs), and oil-soluble acids such beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). Some acids are both water and oil soluble, such as mandelic acid and resorcinol. In general, AHAs have a less drying effect than BHAs on the skin. Resorcinol, first popularized in the Jessner peel (a blend of salicylic, lactic and resorcinol) can break down rough, scaly and hardened skin, making it a popular addition to medium and deep peels.
The type and depth of chemical peel administered will depend on your skin type, concern, Fitzpatrick type, and skincare habits. Consult with your skincare professional to create a customized treatment plan for your specific skin needs and to understand how to maintain results with advanced homecare.
HOW DO CHEMICAL PEELS WORK?
Chemical acids are further broken down by the pH of the formulation (the lower the pH, the stronger the acid) and the size of the molecule itself. For example, a 20% concentration of glycolic acid at a pH of 3 will be stronger than the same formulation of lactic acid because the glycolic molecule is much smaller and better able to penetrate the skin’s barrier.
Your skincare professional will be able to determine the most appropriate peel formulation for your skin type and the most effective post-procedure regimen.
Your EXPERIENCE DURING A CHEMICAL PEEL
A superficial peel can produce some redness, similar to a mild sunburn, which may last 3 to 5 days. The more intense medium and deep peels will result in noticeable redness, swelling, blistering (in the case of deep peels), and/or peeling for 7 to 14 days. Deep chemical peels may also require bandages to be applied for a few days following treatment, along with prescribed painkillers to manage the discomfort.
Immediately after a chemical peel, skin becomes more photosensitive. It is absolutely necessary that a broad spectrum sunscreen is applied daily post treatment, and that sun exposure is avoided or kept to a minimum.
WHEN to GET A CHEMICAL PEEL?
Due to the exfoliating nature of chemical peels, skin may become more susceptible to damage from environmental aggressors immediately post treatment. It is essential that a broad spectrum sunscreen is applied daily and diligently. Your skincare professional might also recommend an at-home skincare regimen to help maintain the results of your chemical peel.
During times of increased UV exposure or activity, deep chemical peels or a series of medium depth peels should be avoided, as they will yield high sun-sensitivity in skin. Superficial chemical peels or lighter exfoliating agents are preferred.