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Number 6 Cosmetic Dermatology

D. Cosmetic Pigment Correction

Number 1 Skin Cancer & Pre-Cancer Care
Number 1 Medical Dermatology
(Chronic & Inflammatory Skin Diseases)
Number 3 Pigment & Lesion Disorders
Number 4 Non-Cancer Growth
Number 5 Surgical Dermatology (Non-Cancer Procedures)
Number 6 Cosmetic Dermatology
A. Anti-wrinkle Injections
B. Dermal Fillers
  1. RHA Redensity — Fine Lines & Skin Refinement
  2. RHA 2 — Moderate Wrinkles & Smile Lines
  3. RHA 3 — Deeper Wrinkles & Lip Enhancement
  4. RHA 4 — Deep Folds, Volume & Facial Contouring
C. Laser & Energy Devices
D. Cosmetic Pigment Correction
Topical Chemical Peel PDF

• Topical Chemical Peel

(A controlled exfoliation to improve skin tone, texture, and clarity)

What Is a Topical Chemical Peel?

A topical chemical peel is a skin treatment in which a carefully selected chemical solution is applied to the skin to exfoliate damaged outer layers. This process stimulates skin renewal, revealing smoother, brighter, and more even-toned skin.

Chemical peels are commonly used to treat:

  • Sun damage and dull skin

  • Uneven skin tone and texture

  • Fine lines

  • Acne and acne-related discoloration

  • Mild pigmentation concerns

Peels can be light (superficial) or medium-depth, depending on your skin type and goals.

How Chemical Peels Work
(Simple Explanation)

  • The peel solution loosens bonds between dead skin cells

  • Damaged outer layers shed over several days

  • New, healthier skin emerges

  • Collagen stimulation may improve skin texture over time

Your dermatologist selects the type and strength of peel based on your skin’s needs.

What to Expect During Treatment

Topical chemical peels are performed in the office and usually take 15–30 minutes.

During the visit:

  1. Skin is cleansed and prepped

  2. The peel solution is applied in a controlled manner

  3. You may feel warmth or tingling for several minutes

  4. The peel is neutralized or removed (depending on type)

  5. Soothing products and sunscreen are applied

Most patients tolerate peels well without anesthesia.

When Will I See Results?

  • Skin may look brighter within days

  • Peeling or flaking typically occurs over 3–7 days

  • Texture and tone continue to improve over 1–2 weeks

Many patients benefit from a series of peels spaced weeks apart.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Chemical Peel?

Chemical peels may be a good option if you:

  • Want brighter, smoother skin

  • Have mild to moderate sun damage or discoloration

  • Can follow aftercare and sun protection instructions

They may not be ideal if you:

  • Have active skin infections or inflammation

  • Are unable to avoid sun exposure during healing

  • Have a history of severe reactions to peels

Your dermatologist will help determine if a peel is safe and appropriate for you.

Pre-Op Instructions (Before a Chemical Peel)

1–2 weeks before

  • Avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning

  • Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily

  • Stop retinoids, exfoliating acids, scrubs, and harsh skincare (unless instructed otherwise)

  • Tell us if you:

    • Have a history of melasma or PIH

    • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

    • Have a history of cold sores (some peels may trigger outbreaks)

    • Have active rashes, infections, or open wounds

Day of treatment

  • Arrive with clean skin (no makeup, lotion, or sunscreen on the area)

  • Avoid waxing or threading the area beforehand

Post-Op Instructions (After a Chemical Peel)

What’s normal

  • Redness similar to a mild sunburn

  • Tightness or dryness

  • Flaking or peeling over several days

  • Mild sensitivity

Aftercare

  • Cleanse gently with a mild cleanser

  • Apply moisturizer as directed

  • Do not pick or peel flaking skin

  • Avoid heat, saunas, and strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours

  • Avoid exfoliants and retinoids until cleared by your provider

  • Strict sun protection is essential during healing

Makeup

  • Often allowed after 24–48 hours, depending on peel depth

Call the office if

  • You develop blistering, significant pain, or spreading redness

  • Pigmentation darkens instead of improving

  • Signs of infection occur (pus, fever, increasing swelling)

Frequently Ashked Questions

Does a chemical peel hurt?

Most patients feel tingling or warmth that lasts a few minutes. Discomfort is usually mild and temporary.

Light peels have minimal downtime. Medium-depth peels may involve several days of peeling and redness.

Many patients benefit from a series of peels for best results, especially for pigmentation or acne.

Peeling varies by peel strength. Some patients experience light flaking, while others have more visible peeling.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) can occur, especially without sun protection. Following instructions reduces risk.

Yes. Chemical peels are often combined with:

    • Medical-grade skincare

    • Laser or light treatments (timing matters)

    • Neuromodulators and fillers

Chemical peels are typically considered cosmetic and are not covered by insurance.