Chemical Peels Chicago, IL

A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure that applies a chemical solution, such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or retinoic acid, to exfoliate the facial skin by removing the outer layer of skin cells. As the treated skin peels, new skin forms, improving skin texture, uneven skin tone, fine wrinkles, and blotchy skin for a smoother, brighter appearance.

There are three main types of chemical peels:

• Light chemical peel (superficial peels): Uses mild acid like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acid (BHA) to exfoliate only the outer layer of skin.
• ‍Medium peel (medium depth chemical peels): Often uses trichloroacetic acid to target the middle layer of skin for deeper wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven pigmentation.
• Deep peel: Uses stronger peeling agents such as phenol peel or deep TCA peels to treat severe acne scars and deeper wrinkles.

Chemical peels can improve skin appearance by treating acne scars, sun damage, uneven pigmentation, actinic keratosis, rough skin, and deeper wrinkles. A chemical peel can also smooth uneven skin and enhance overall skin tone for various skin types, including thicker skin and darker skin tones when selected and monitored carefully.

Yes, with the appropriate chemical peel and proper skin care, many darker skin types and sensitive skin clients can safely receive peels. However, darker skin tones may have a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Your provider will review your medical history, skin conditions, and recommend the most appropriate chemical peel to reduce risk.

After treatment, the peeling process begins as the chemical peel solution causes the outer layer (or deeper skin layers, depending on peel depth) to shed. Skin flaking or noticeable skin peeling may last up to four weeks for deeper peels, while light peels may flake for only a few days. As skin heals, new skin appears smoother and more even.

• Light peels: Exfoliate only the outer layer for mild texture and tone improvement with little downtime.
• Medium peels: Treat deeper skin layers of the middle layer, targeting sun damage, uneven skin, and moderate lines.
• Deep peels: Penetrate further to treat deep wrinkles, deep scars, and severe acne scars, but require more healing time and should be performed by an experienced dermatologic surgeon.

Possible side effects include redness, skin flaking, dryness, cold sores, allergic reaction, or temporary or permanent change in skin tone, especially on darker skin types with medium peels or deep peels. You may be given antiviral medication if you have a history of cold sores. Avoid sun exposure to help the treated area heal properly.

Before a facial peel, avoid direct sun exposure, tanning, harsh exfoliants, hair removal treatments, and certain medications. Your provider will review your medical history and skin type to determine the right type of peel. Proper skin care before treatment helps the skin heal evenly and safely.

After a chemical peel, avoid direct sun exposure and use sunscreen daily. A cool compress may soothe the treated area, and proper skin care will support the healing process. Never pick or peel shedding skin. Light peels heal quickly, while deeper peels and medium peels require more downtime as the skin layers regenerate.

Your provider will evaluate your skin tone, skin type, concerns, and goals to select the appropriate chemical peel, whether a light chemical peel, medium chemical peel, or deep chemical peel. A customized peel plan can target uneven skin tone, sun exposure damage, fine lines, acne scars, or deeper wrinkles for your best result.

We’re located in the heart of Old Town, Chicago, and proudly serve clients throughout the city, including River North, Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, and nearby communities. Our studio is your destination for personalized skincare, such as facial treatments.