Chemical peels may be the right option if you want a healthy, refreshed complexion and a youthful glow. These treatments effectively remove dead skin cells, reduce fine lines, and improve skin texture. Chemical peels also target wrinkles, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, age spots, acne scars, and uneven skin tone—making them a popular choice for skin resurfacing and rejuvenation.
But how do you know which type of chemical peel is best for your skin? This article breaks down the 4 levels of chemical peels, from mild to deep treatments, to help you make the right choice.
Table of Contents
What Are Chemical Peels?
A chemical peel is a skin resurfacing treatment that uses a chemical solution to exfoliate the outer layers of the skin. Depending on the depth of the peel, it can address superficial concerns like dullness or deeper issues like wrinkles and acne scars.
There are four levels of chemical peels—ranging from light exfoliation to deep tissue regeneration. Let’s explore each level to see which one is right for you.
Benefits of Chemical Peels
No matter the depth, chemical peels offer multiple benefits, including
✅ Skin Brightening – Removes dull, dead skin cells for a glowing complexion.
✅ Wrinkle Reduction – Smooths fine lines and reduces signs of aging.
✅ Acne & Scar Treatment – Reduces acne breakouts and fades acne scars.
✅ Hyperpigmentation Correction – Treats dark spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone.
✅ Collagen Boosting – Stimulates new collagen production for firmer, youthful skin.
✅ Better Product Absorption – Helps skincare products penetrate deeper for enhanced results.
Now, let’s explore the different levels of chemical peels! 👇
Level 1: Very Superficial Chemical Peels (Best for Beginners)
If you’re new to chemical peels or have sensitive skin, a very superficial chemical peel is a great starting point. These peels gently exfoliate the outermost layer of skin, making them ideal for:
🔸 Dull skin in need of a glow boost
🔸 Mild acne breakouts
🔸 Uneven skin tone and texture
These peels often use glycolic acid or lactic acid and require little to no downtime.
Superficial chemical peels act more like an exfoliation. They work on the superficial layer of the skin to remove the built-up dead skin cells that make your skin look dull. An exfoliating agent such as glycolic acid cream is used 2 to 4 weeks before the procedure. This allows the chemical peel to penetrate deeper into the skin.
In addition, the use of exfoliating agent smooths out thickened, rough areas of the skin, thereby helping skin rejuvenation agents reach deeper tissues. Moreover, the use of vitamin A exfoliants stimulates collagen production. An aesthetician or a board-certified physician can perform the superficial chemical peeling.
Level 2: Superficial Chemical Peels (Best for Acne & Uneven Skin Tone)
Superficial chemical peels work slightly deeper, helping to cleanse pores and reduce blotchy skin discoloration and smooth rough patches.
🌟 Common ingredients: Glycolic acid (AHA), salicylic acid, lactic acid
🌟 Best for:
✅ Acne-prone skin – Helps clear clogged pores & control oil production
✅ Sun-damaged skin – Fades mild pigmentation & evens skin tone
✅ Dull complexion – Improves skin radiance with a brighter glow
They work through the epidermal layer of the skin to remove the built-up dead skin cells that make your skin look dull. Some superficial peels remove only the stratum corneum of the epidermis, while others reach deep to the basal layer. Superficial peels cleanse the pores and remove blotchy skin discoloration.
They are the most commonly used chemical peels and utilize glycolic acid, and AHA blends as the active ingredients. Peels containing higher than 30% glycolic acid are performed ideally in a medical setting. Home peel kits contain minimal glycolic acid levels or a salicylic acid blend.
Level 3: Medium Chemical Peels (Best for Wrinkles & Deep Acne Scars)
Medium-depth peels penetrate deeper into the skin, targeting fine lines, acne scars, and sun damage.
✅ Uses ingredients like: TCA (Trichloroacetic acid)
✅ Best for:
- Mild to moderate wrinkles
- Hyperpigmentation (age spots, melasma)
- Stubborn acne scars
⚠ Downtime: Expect 3-7 days of peeling and redness.
Medium peels penetrate the entire epidermis to exfoliate cells within the papillary dermis. The papillary dermis is the thin top layer of the dermis. It supplies blood and nutrients to the epidermis through its blood vessels and connective tissue network. Pre-peel use of exfoliant, a bleaching agent, and broad-spectrum sunscreen are started one month before the procedure. This is done for patients who require more aggressive forms of peels.
It is essential to consult with a certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon before going for the treatment. This will help avoid possible complications and unwanted outcomes. Since medium peels penetrate the deeper layer of skin, they produce more pronounced results than light chemical peels. Level three chemical peels may not be suitable for people with darker skin tones due to the likelihood of irregular skin pigmentation after the treatment. Medium peels are well suited for skin issues like acne scars, wrinkles, sun damage, liver spots, etc.
Level 4: Deep Chemical Peels (Best for Severe Skin Concerns)
Deep chemical peels deliver dramatic anti-aging results by removing multiple layers of damaged skin.
🔥 Best for:
- Severe sun damage & deep wrinkles
- Loose, sagging skin
- Pre-cancerous growths
⚠ Important Note: This peel requires general anesthesia and up to 2-3 weeks of recovery time.
Chemical Peel Aftercare Tips
After a chemical peel, your skin will be more sensitive and vulnerable to irritation. Follow these post-care guidelines for optimal healing: ✅ Avoid direct sun exposure – Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily.
✅ Do not pick or peel skin – Let the skin shed naturally to avoid scarring.
✅ Keep skin hydrated – Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers.
✅ Skip harsh skincare products – Avoid retinol, exfoliants, and acids for at least a week.
Quick Comparison Of Chemical Peel Levels
| Peel Level | Depth | Best For | Downtime |
|---|
| Superficial | Light | Dull skin, mild acne | 1-3 days |
| Medium | Moderate | Wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage | 5-7 days |
| Deep | Intensive | Deep wrinkles, severe sun damage | 2-3 weeks |
For severe skin concerns, deep peels can be combined with microneedling for enhanced results.
Deep chemical peels go across the epidermis, papillary dermis, and into the deeper layer of skin known as the reticular dermis. As the name indicates, deep chemical peels penetrate the deepest into the skin by removing the entire epidermis and the papillary dermis. Patients must be placed under general anesthesia and monitored for specific health conditions to perform this treatment.
Deep peels may carry some risks, which is why they are performed only by a highly trained, board-certified provider. They address the most significant skin concerns, including deep wrinkles, laxity, pre-cancerous growth, uneven skin tone, and more.
Alladerm believes that everyone deserves to look and feel their best. That’s why we offer the safest cosmetic procedure, including the chemical peel procedure, at discounted rates.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chemical Peels
Q1: How long does a chemical peel take to heal?
👉 Healing time depends on the depth of the peel:
- Superficial peels: 1-3 days
- Medium peels: 5-7 days
- Deep peels: 2-3 weeks
During recovery, you may experience redness, peeling, and sensitivity. Always follow post-care instructions for the best results.
Q2: What is the best chemical peel for acne scars?
👉 The best peels for acne scars are:
- Salicylic Acid Peels – Great for active acne and mild scars.
- TCA Peels (Medium-depth peels) – Best for stubborn scars and hyperpigmentation.
- Phenol Peels (Deep peels) – Used for severe scars and deep skin damage (requires downtime).
For acne-prone skin, a customized peel may work best. Book a consultation to find the right option for you!
Q3: Does a chemical peel hurt?
👉 Most chemical peels cause mild tingling or warmth but are generally not painful.
- Superficial peels: Feel like a mild tingling sensation.
- Medium peels: May cause slight stinging but are tolerable.
- Deep peels: Can be more intense and require anesthesia or numbing agents.
Your provider can adjust the strength to ensure your comfort.
Q4: How often should I get a chemical peel?
👉 Recommended frequency depends on the peel level:
- Superficial peels: Every 2-4 weeks (for regular maintenance).
- Medium peels: Every 3-6 months.
- Deep peels: Typically once in a lifetime due to their intensity.
Your provider will suggest the best schedule based on your skin type and goals.
Q5: What should I avoid after a chemical peel?
👉 To ensure proper healing, avoid:
❌ Direct sun exposure – Always wear SPF 30+ sunscreen.
❌ Harsh skincare products – Avoid retinol, exfoliants, and acids for at least a week.
❌ Picking or peeling the skin – Let it shed naturally to prevent scarring.
❌ Hot showers, saunas, and excessive sweating – Can irritate the skin.
Follow post-peel care instructions to maximize results!
Ready to Transform Your Skin? Book Your Chemical Peel Today!
At Alladerm, we offer safe, effective, and dermatologist-approved chemical peel treatments. Spots fill up fast! Get your custom chemical peel treatment today.
📞 Call (949) 916-7166 now or Book Your Free Consultation to get customized skin solutions for your needs!
I am 64yrs and would like information and cost for deep chemical peel. Can this e combined with laser treatment for better result. Also can I have my hands done. Approx cost please