Are Chemical Peels Safe?

As one of the most popular noninvasive cosmetic treatments in the United States, chemical peels are a go-to for improving the look of wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and more. But is it the right approach for you?

Don’t let the name intimidate you. When administered by experienced professionals like our team at Shady Grove Dermatology, chemical peels are safe and highly effective. Our treatments are tailored to your skin’s specific needs, ensuring optimal results and minimal risks.

Feeling confident in your skincare choices starts with understanding your options. Read on and explore the different types of chemical peels, how they address common skin concerns, and what you can expect during and after a session.

What type of peel is right for you?

Chemical peels come in a variety of different strengths and formulations to suit various skin types and goals. Light peels using alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) gently exfoliate the outermost layer — perfect for a subtle refresh and enhancing radiance.

For more noticeable improvements in texture and pigmentation, we may use a medium-depth peel with trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or glycolic acid. 

Deep peels, using phenol (carbolic acid), provide even more dramatic results by penetrating farther into the skin. This type of peel may not be the right choice for patients with heart disease.

We can help you choose the right peel during your initial consultation. We carefully assess your skin type, consider any existing conditions, and note your specific concerns to determine the safest and most effective peel for you.

How chemical peels safely target skin imperfections

For mild pigmentation issues, rough texture, and early fine lines, superficial peels remove dead skin cells to reveal a brighter, smoother complexion. We often recommend a series of these mild treatments for ongoing skin maintenance.

If you want to diminish the appearance of sunspots, age spots, or light acne scarring, a deeper level of exfoliation may be necessary. Chemical peels that go beyond the outer layer can break down the pigmented cells responsible for these spots and encourage the skin to remodel, reducing the visibility of scars.

When dealing with significant concerns, such as deep-set wrinkles, extensive sun damage, or actinic keratosis, we may recommend a deep peel. These peels work on the lower dermal layer, stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin within the skin.

What to expect during and after your peel

When you come in for your scheduled chemical peel, your comfort and safety are our top priorities. Depending on the depth of peel we’ve chosen, we may use a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.

Once you’re relaxed and ready, we thoroughly cleanse your skin to prepare it for treatment. Then we carefully apply the chemical solution. You may notice a warming or tingling sensation, which is normal, and our team keeps a close eye on you during the process.

After a superficial peel, you might experience some temporary redness or tightness, but you can generally resume your normal activities with no downtime. Medium-depth peels often result in more noticeable redness and may require a week or more for the skin to recover.

For deep peels, we cover the skin with a protective ointment and sometimes bandages to prevent dryness and to aid healing. We provide you with detailed care instructions for your recovery, which may include soaking your skin and applying moisturizer at regular intervals.

Are you ready to experience the benefits of a chemical peel? Schedule an appointment with our team at Shady Grove Dermatology in Rockville, Maryland, for a personalized consultation.