What is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a professional skin-resurfacing treatment that uses a customized chemical solution to exfoliate the top layers of the skin. As the skin gently sheds, fresh, smoother, and more even-toned skin is revealed underneath.

Chemical peels are effective for improving:

Fine lines and wrinkles

Sun damage and pigmentation

Acne and acne scarring

Uneven texture or tone

Dull or aging skin

Mild skin laxity

At Refine Dermatology, we offer a range of chemical peels to match your skin needs. Options include Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA), Salicylic Acid, and Modified Jessner’s Solution (salicylic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, ethanol).

Your exact peel type and strength are chosen by Dr. Salyards based on your skin type, level of sun damage, and your cosmetic goals.

What to Expect During a Chemical Peel

Before your appointment, you may be prescribed antiviral medication if you have a history of cold sores. Depending on your skin type and the depth of the peel, pretreatment with retinoids or skin-brightening products may also be recommended for best results.

At your visit:

1. Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed.

2. The peeling solution is applied carefully and evenly.

3. You may feel a warm, tingling, or mild burning sensation—this is normal and temporary.

4. A fan or cold compress may be used to keep you comfortable.

Chemical Peel Recovery: What Happens Next

Your healing process depends on the depth of your peel:

Gentle peels: Mild flaking for 2–5 days

Medium/deeper peels: More noticeable peeling (sometimes larger flakes or sheets), tightness, and redness for 5–7 days

It’s important to:

Avoid picking or pulling at the skin as it sheds

Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer

Avoid sweating, saunas, and exfoliating products

Follow all post-care instructions closely

You must avoid direct sun exposure for at least one month after treatment to protect the new skin and prevent unwanted pigmentation. Sunscreen should be worn daily to maintain your results long-term.

When Will You See Results?

Most patients begin to see brighter, smoother skin as soon as the peeling stage is over. Full results develop as the skin continues to heal and collagen production increases.

For concerns like acne scarring, sun damage, or deeper lines, a series of peels spaced several weeks or months apart may be recommended for optimal improvement.

Schedule Your Chemical Peel Consultation

Every treatment at Refine Dermatology is tailored to your unique skin. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Salyards to receive a personalized chemical peel plan.

Chemical Peel FAQ

What does a chemical peel treat?

Chemical peels can improve fine lines, sun damage, pigmentation, acne, acne scarring, uneven texture, and overall skin dullness. Depending on the strength of the peel, they can also help with mild skin laxity and deeper discoloration.

How do I know which peel is right for me?

At Refine Dermatology, your peel type and strength are chosen by Dr. Salyards after evaluating your skin type, level of sun damage, and treatment goals. Options include superficial peels for gentle exfoliation and deeper peels for more dramatic results.

Is a chemical peel painful?

Most patients feel tingling, warmth, or mild burning during the application. Superficial peels are very tolerable, while deeper peels may cause a stronger stinging sensation. Any discomfort is temporary and usually lasts only a few minutes.

What is “frosting”?

Frosting is a temporary whitening of the skin that can occur with medium or deep chemical peels. It is completely normal and indicates that the peel is working at a deeper level to stimulate skin renewal.

What will my skin look like after a peel?

Immediately after treatment, the skin may appear pink, warm, or slightly flushed. Over the next several days, you may experience peeling, flaking, or tightness depending on the peel depth. This is part of the natural exfoliation process.

How long is the downtime?

Downtime varies:

Gentle peels: minimal downtime, light flaking 2–5 days

Medium/deep peels: more noticeable peeling and redness for 5–7 days

Most patients can return to normal daily activities right away.

How quickly will I see results?

You’ll begin to see brighter, more refined skin once the peeling is complete. Deeper peels produce more dramatic changes, but even mild peels leave the skin looking smoother and more radiant within a week.

How many chemical peels do I need?

Many patients benefit from a series of peels, spaced several weeks or months apart, to address concerns like sun damage, acne, or pigmentation. Dr. Salyards can help create a customized plan.

Why do I need to avoid the sun after a chemical peel?

Freshly peeled skin is more sensitive to UV rays, which can lead to irritation or unwanted pigmentation. You should avoid direct sun exposure for at least one month and wear daily sunscreen to maintain results.

Is a chemical peel safe for all skin types?

Yes — when performed by a board-certified dermatologist. Some peels are better suited for certain skin tones and concerns, which is why customization by a board-certified dermatologist is essential.

If you’d like to discuss cosmetic treatments further, call our office or complete our cosmetic survey. A member of our team will contact you by the next business day to schedule your appointment.