Chemical peels are among the most versatile and highly customizable treatments available, designed to effectively remove cellular buildup and promote the regeneration of all skin types. They work by exfoliating the outer layers of the skin to reveal fresher, smoother skin underneath. Additionally, you can combine chemical peels with complementary treatments such as dermaplaning or microneedling to significantly enhance the overall effectiveness and results of the peel. Peels are particularly beneficial in addressing a variety of common skin concerns including hyperpigmentation, rosacea, acne, sun damage, and the effects of photoaging. Even a single chemical peel can leave your skin with a noticeably more vibrant, radiant, and youthful appearance.

Chemical peels are generally categorized into three main groups: superficial peels, medium-depth peels, and deep peels. Each type of peel has its own specific indications, benefits, and penetration depths. The general idea and purpose of each peel type is outlined below to help you understand which option might best suit your skin’s unique needs.

LIGHT/SUPERFICIAL PEEL
Used primarily for acne treatment and overall skin-refreshing, this peel targets only the very top layers of the skin for a gentle exfoliation. It includes options such as glycolic acid peels, salicylic acid peels, and TCA peels. Light chemical peels are the least aggressive type, removing only the outermost layer of the skin without causing any significant visible peeling. When performed regularly—ideally once per month for maintenance, or up to once a week to correct damage—these treatments provide mild exfoliation with cumulative benefits over time.

Often called “Lunch” peels, patients can easily receive them during a break and return to work without anyone noticing the treatment.

This fundamental peel procedure typically includes cleansing, application of the chemical peel, topical vitamins, post-peel soothing balm, and sunscreen protection. It is important to note that this is not a traditional “facial” but a focused, clinical treatment. For enhanced results, a light chemical peel can be combined with complementary services such as dermaplaning or microneedling, or added to any facial regimen.

A popular option is the Sensi Peel® by PCA Skin, a distinctive chemical peel suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. This universal 6% TCA solution works to improve surface texture, brighten the skin, and promote a more even skin tone. It is especially beneficial for sensitive skin and individuals with higher Fitzpatrick skin types, offering a multi-faceted and skin-brightening effect in about 45 minutes.

MEDIUM-DEPTH PEEL

• Used for fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, rough skin texture, and photodamage.

• Peels the top layer and the upper part of the middle layer of skin

• Includes glycolic acid peels, salicylic acid peels, retinol peels

• Medium depth peels have irritation that my last for 4-7 days.

• Mid-Depth Peels target the intra-epidermal layer, skin exfoliation starts within two to three days of treatment.

  • The first few days your skin will feel dry and tight.

  • The drier your skin is to start, the longer it takes for peeling to begin. Oily people start peeling sooner.

  • Expect light flaking, similar to a sunburn peel.

  Mid-depth chemical peels can be administered as frequently as every 4-6 weeks as needed to achieve results. A mid-depth peel can offer rejuvenative effects with minimal to no down time.

  This basic peel includes cleansing, chemical peel, topical vitamins, post-peel balm and sunscreen. This is not a “facial” but a clinical treatment only. A light chemical peel can be combined with other services such as derma-planing or micro-needling for a more dramatic result or added to any facial treatment.

DEEP CHEMICAL PEEL

• Used to treat fine, deeper wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation

• Peels the top and more of the middle layer of skin

• Includes phenol peels

• Expect peeling 5-10 days.

PCA Peel® with Hydroquinone & Resorcinol

• PCA Peel with Hydroquinone & Resorcinol is the most potent of our enhanced Jessner’s formulas. This peel will help to improve skin tone, enlarged pores and pigmentation, for oily, thicker and more resilient skin types. PCA uses the same key ingredients as in there other Jessner Peels with the addition of Resorcinol to enhance clients’ results who require a deeper exfoliation treatment. Perfect for Fitzpatrick types I-III. (1 hr) 

• It is also effective for those who require deeper treatment. Includes—

Lactic Acid - is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) naturally found in milk and sugars. It is part of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF) and moisturizes the skin.

Salicylic Acid - is a calming lipophilic beta hydroxy acid that helps promote a clear complexion.

Citric Acid -  is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) naturally found in citrus fruits.

Kojic Acid -  helps promote and even skin tone.

Hydroquinone - helps to promote an even skin tone.

Resorcinol -  is a flaking agent. 

4% or 6% Pure Retinol Peel by PCA Skin®

Retinol, is a gentler vitamin A derivative, widely known as one of the most effective ingredients in skin care today. Retinol has been used in many forms, both at home and in the treatment room. Retinol enhances the absorption of vitamins, antioxidants, and rich active ingredients into the skin for maximum benefits, and is highly effective for improving pigmentation, clearing blemish prone skin, and increasing cell turnover cycle as we age. 

The Pure Retinol Peel is PCA SKIN®’s newest innovation. For skin in need of rejuvenation, this retinoid peel smooths, brightens, and evens skin tone through increased cell turnover and peeling without irritation. Peeling can last anywhere from seven to ten days, returning the skin to optimal function and its results are dramatic. Powerful antioxidants are used to calm and rejuvenate the skin while fight off free radical damage, providing better product absorption and moisture for firmer, brighter, smoother skin. This powerful retinoid peel is available in both 4 and 6% formulations and perfect for normal to more resilient skin types in need of rejuvenation.

FOR PHYSICIAN IN CLINIC USE ONLY.

• 6% Pure Retinol Peel is indicated for people with moderate to severe discoloration and normal to resilient skin.

• This peel is appropriate for treating the visible signs of aging, as well as those with sallow or dull complexions.

• Patients should expect dramatic peeling and sheeting beginning two to three days post-treatment and lasting for up to ten days.

Call us now at 210-622-2334 to set up your appointment, or go to the patient portal to request an appointment online.