Introduction to chemical peels
A chemical peel is a carefully timed application of acids that loosen the outermost layers of dead skin and prompt faster renewal underneath. Depending on the formula and strength, a peel can brighten dull skin, clear congested pores, soften fine lines and lighten some types of discoloration. It is one of the oldest tools in aesthetic medicine and still one of the most useful.
We use light and medium-depth peels built from a small set of acids: salicylic for oily and breakout-prone skin, lactic and mandelic for sensitive or deeper skin tones, and blended formulas for tone and texture. Your nurse chooses the formula after looking at your skin and asking what it has tolerated before.
Preparing your skin
For an even result and the lowest chance of irritation, we ask you to stop retinoids and exfoliating acids three to five days before your peel, avoid waxing the area for a week and arrive without makeup. Clients with a history of cold sores may need a preventive prescription before a medium-depth peel.
Some skin types benefit from two to four weeks of prep with a gentle brightening routine first. It helps the peel penetrate evenly and reduces the risk of post-peel darkening, especially on deeper skin tones.
The peel and the week after
The application takes 20 to 30 minutes. Most peels tingle or feel warm for a few minutes, and a fan helps. Skin usually looks normal or slightly pink when you leave.
- Days two to five: tightness, then light to moderate flaking
- Do not pick or scrub; let the skin shed on its own
- Daily sunscreen is essential for at least two weeks
How often to peel
Light peels can be repeated every four weeks as a series of three to six. Medium peels are spaced further apart, often every three months. Many clients alternate peels with medical facials across the year for steady improvement without long recovery.
Aftercare and what to avoid
Keep skin clean, moisturized and protected. Use a gentle cleanser, a plain moisturizer several times a day if you feel tight, and mineral sunscreen every morning. Avoid retinoids, acids, waxing and hot yoga until flaking has finished.
