Everything You Need to Know About Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are one of the most effective ways to improve skin tone and texture. They remove dead skin cells, promoting the growth of new ones to brighten the skin,  reducing pigmentation, the appearance of scars and wrinkles, and spots to reveal smoother skin. If you’re searching for a medical spa near you for treatments to rejuvenate your skin or to treat specific concerns, this guide gives you the information you need to take the next step. 

How do Chemical Peels Work?

Chemical peels create controlled injuries to the surface layer, triggering the body’s natural repair response. A chemical solution is applied to exfoliate damaged skin cells, remove the outer layer, and stimulate new cell production, revealing smoother and clearer skin. 

Chemical peels can help:

• Improve skin clarity, tone, and texture

• Control acne and clear clogged pores

• Minimize acne scars

• Reduce hyperpigmentation and refine pore size

• Soften fine lines and mild wrinkles

• Promote collagen and elastin for firmer, brighter-looking skin

At Visage MedSpa, we offer The Perfect Peel®, a medium-depth peel suitable for all skin types. This peel stimulates collagen and elastin production to firm and brighten the skin while reducing acne scars, pigmentation, and fine lines. It can also help control active acne, with visible improvement in as little as seven days.

Other skin resurfacing treatments include microneedling and laser skincare. Both these treatments promote skin repair and renewal, removing damaged cells, and gradually improving  skin tone, texture, and firmness. 

At Visage MedSpa, we can add Klardie® Skin Boosters, PDRN (DNA sourced from salmon), or Ariessence® Platelet Derived Growth Factor to your microneedling to amp up your results. We also offer Radiofrequency Microneedling, which combines thermal energy and needling for smoother and firmer skin. All our RF Microneedling treatments are combined with a light Erbium YAG laser treatment to take your results to the next level. 

Learn more skin resurfacing treatments at medical spa near you:

Microneedling vs. Laser: Which Skin Rejuvenation Treatment Is Right for You?

Chemical Peels: What to Expect Before and After 

Chemical peels come in different strengths: light, medium, and deep. Light and medium peels are commonly used for acne scars and discoloration, with shorter recovery times. Deep peels penetrate further and can target more pronounced damage, but they involve longer healing and are not suitable for all skin types. Chemical peels may require more than one session, depending on your skin condition and specific concerns. 

The most effective chemical peel is one that’s tailored for your skin health, and comfort level. A consultation with an experienced provider at a reputable medical spa near you is the best way to understand your options and get a personalized treatment plan to achieve your desired outcome.  

Before Your Chemical Peel

Your skin may need some preparation to avoid irritation. Your provider may ask you to avoid retinol, exfoliants, or anything that can make the skin more sensitive. Daily sunscreen is essential, and your skincare should stay simple and hydrating in the days leading up to your appointment.

During the Session

Light and medium peels usually take under an hour. Deeper peels take longer because they reach further into the skin and use stronger ingredients. After the solution is applied, your skin may look slightly red or feel warm. Your provider will finish with a protective ointment and guide on aftercare and maintenance. 

After Your Chemical Peel

It’s normal to experience mild redness, tightness, or peeling as new skin comes to the surface. Some areas may briefly look darker or lighter before they settle. Aftercare may include:

• Avoiding sun exposure and makeup during the first week

• Using only the products recommended by your provider

• Applying sunscreen daily, as the skin is more sensitive to UV

• Using ice packs if there is swelling or mild discomfort

Results and Recovery

Light peels involve minimal downtime, usually one day. Medium peels take about four to seven days to fully peel and heal. Deeper peels create more dramatic results but require longer recovery and are not suitable for everyone.

Light and medium peels may require additional sessions, either for maintenance or for targeted skin concerts. However, even after a single session, most people notice smoother, brighter, and more refreshed skin.

Visage MedSpa, we offer targeted aesthetic treatments performed by our nurse practitioner-led team with extensive experience in advanced aesthetic care. These treatments reach the deeper layers of the skin, healing damaged tissue and stimulating collagen to improve scarring, texture, discoloration, and overall skin quality. We use the latest techniques and devices, combining different options as needed to keep results looking natural while offering personalized guidance to treat both present concerns and provide long term maintenance. 

Reveal Brighter, Smoother Skin with Chemical Peels at a Medical Spa Near You

Chemical peels are a versatile treatment for improving skin tone, texture, and quality. With guidance from an experienced provider, chemical peels can treat various skin concerns, from acne and scarring to fine lines and aging.  Post peel aftercare is equally important to maintain skin quality and results. Sunblock for protection and moisturizer for hydration post treatment and recommended home skincare can keep your skin healthy and vibrant for the long term. 

If you’re searching for a medical spa near me that prioritizes personalized care in a warm, welcoming environment, we’re here for you. With over 20 years of experience and a range of aesthetic services, our team is committed to helping you look and feel your best. 

Serving patients near Mayfield, Beachwood, Orange Village, Willoughby, Kirtland, and Cleveland’s East Side, we specialize in advanced treatments designed to deliver natural results. Call today or book online to schedule your consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the difference between chemical peels and exfoliation?

Chemical peels work deeper than at-home exfoliation. Exfoliation removes only the outer layer of dead skin, while a chemical peel penetrates into the epidermis to treat damaged cells, brighten pigmentation, improve texture, and stimulate skin renewal.

2. How often should I get a chemical peel?

Light peels can be done every 4 to 6 weeks. Medium peels, like The Perfect Peel®, should be spaced out further to allow full healing. Your provider will guide you based on your skin type, goals, and how your skin responds.

3. Are chemical peels safe for sensitive skin?

Yes, but lighter formulations are typically recommended. Sensitive skin types should avoid stronger peels. A consultation at a medical spa near you ensures the peel strength is right for your skin.

4. Can chemical peels help with acne and acne scars?

Chemical peels can help reduce active acne by clearing clogged pores and improving oil control. Medium peels can also soften the appearance of shallow acne scars and help fade post-inflammatory pigmentation.

5. Can chemical peels be combined with other treatments?

Yes. Depending on your skin goals, chemical peels can be combined with treatments such as microneedling, injectables, or laser skincare. Combination treatments should always be planned with your provider to ensure safety and timing.