Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is a non-surgical treatment that uses a specially formulated solution to exfoliate the skin. The solution removes damaged outer layers, allowing healthier skin to emerge as the treated area heals. Chemical peels can be performed on the face, neck, chest, hands, and other areas affected by sun exposure or visible skin damage.

Chemical peels vary in strength and depth. Some provide gentle exfoliation with little downtime, while others penetrate deeper to address more significant concerns.

Chemical peels can improve many common skin concerns, including:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Sun damage
• Age spots and brown spots
• Uneven skin tone
• Hyperpigmentation
• Melasma
• Acne
• Acne scars
• Enlarged pores
• Rough skin texture
• Dull or tired-looking skin

Several types of chemical peels are available, each formulated to address specific skin concerns. The best option depends on your skin type, goals, and the condition being treated.

Glycolic acid peels

Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane and is one of the most commonly used ingredients in chemical peels. Because it penetrates the skin easily, it can help improve dullness, uneven skin tone, mild discoloration, fine lines, and rough texture. Glycolic acid peels are often recommended for patients seeking brighter, smoother-looking skin with minimal downtime.

Salicylic acid peels

Salicylic acid is particularly effective for acne-prone and oily skin. It penetrates into the pores, helping to remove excess oil, dead skin cells, and debris that contribute to breakouts. Salicylic acid peels may also reduce blackheads, whiteheads, and post-acne discoloration.

Lactic acid peels

Lactic acid is a gentler option that provides exfoliation while helping the skin retain moisture. These peels are often well-suited for patients with sensitive or dry skin who want to improve skin texture, mild pigmentation concerns, and overall radiance.

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels

TCA peels are commonly used to treat more significant sun damage, pigmentation issues, fine lines, and acne scarring. Depending on the concentration used, TCA peels can penetrate deeper into the skin and often produce more noticeable improvements than lighter peels.

Jessner peels

Jessner peels combine several exfoliating ingredients, typically including salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resorcinol. These peels are frequently used to treat acne, sun damage, uneven pigmentation, and early signs of aging. They can be customized to achieve varying depths of treatment.

Combination and customized peels

Many modern chemical peels combine multiple ingredients to target several concerns simultaneously. Customized formulations allow Rosebranch clinicians to tailor treatment to a patient’s specific skin type, complexion, and goals.

Peel depth

In addition to the type of peel used, chemical peels are often classified as superficial, medium, or deep. The depth of the peel determines how deeply the solution penetrates the skin and influences both the results and recovery time. During your consultation, your dermatologist will recommend the most appropriate peel formulation and depth based on your individual needs.

Skin naturally renews itself by shedding old cells and replacing them with new ones. Factors such as aging, sun exposure, and certain skin conditions can slow this process, leading to uneven texture, discoloration, and a dull appearance.

A chemical peel accelerates cell turnover by removing damaged surface layers. As the skin heals, new skin cells replace older ones, creating a fresher and more even complexion.

Many peels also stimulate collagen production, an important protein that helps maintain skin firmness and elasticity. Increased collagen can soften fine lines and improve overall skin quality over time.

Results often develop gradually as the skin completes its natural healing and renewal process.

Chemical peels offer several advantages for patients seeking healthier-looking skin without surgery.

Benefits may include:

• Brighter complexion
• More even skin tone
• Smoother skin texture
• Reduction in acne breakouts
• Improvement in acne scars
• Softening of fine lines
• Diminished sun damage
• Smaller-appearing pores
• Healthier overall skin appearance

Because treatments can be tailored to different skin types and concerns, chemical peels are appropriate for many patients seeking cosmetic skin improvement.