Peels Overview
Peels are non-surgical skin treatments that use specially formulated solutions to exfoliate the outer layers of the skin, revealing smoother, brighter, and more even-toned skin underneath. They’re used to treat a range of concerns including dullness, acne, fine lines, sun damage, and uneven texture. Peels can be customized to different skin types and depths, from light refreshers to more intensive resurfacing. Dr. Zhu offers professional-grade peels designed to safely rejuvenate the skin and promote collagen renewal. The treatment is quick, effective, and ideal for patients seeking noticeable results without invasive procedures.
Types of Peels and What They Treat
Peels come in three general strengths: superficial, medium, and deep. Light peels (like glycolic or lactic acid) gently exfoliate and brighten the skin, with little to no downtime. Medium peels (such as TCA) penetrate deeper to improve pigmentation, wrinkles, and acne scarring. Deep peels may be used for more severe sun damage or texture issues, though they require longer recovery. Dr. Zhu selects the appropriate peel strength based on your skin goals, tone, and sensitivity to ensure safe and personalized results.
Pre-Treatment Preparation
Before your chemical peel, Dr. Zhu will assess your skin and discuss any medical history, skincare products, or recent treatments that might affect your results. Patients may be advised to stop using retinoids, exfoliants, or certain acids for 5 to 7 days beforehand. A prep regimen may be recommended for medium or deep peels, especially for patients with darker skin tones, to reduce the risk of pigmentation changes. Sun exposure and tanning should be avoided in the days leading up to the peel. You’ll be given clear pre-treatment guidelines to ensure your skin is in the best possible condition.
In-Office Procedure Details
Peels are performed in-office and typically take 30 minutes or less. After cleansing your skin, the chemical solution is applied and left on for a specified amount of time, depending on the type of peel. You may feel a tingling or mild burning sensation, which quickly subsides after the solution is neutralized or removed. For deeper peels, a fan or cool compress may be used to ease any discomfort. Once complete, a calming moisturizer and sunscreen are applied, and you’ll leave with post-care instructions in hand.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery varies depending on the strength of the peel. Light peels may cause only mild flaking or redness for a day or two, while medium or deep peels can result in more noticeable peeling, swelling, or sensitivity over 5 to 10 days. It’s important not to pick or peel the skin as it sheds—this helps avoid scarring or pigmentation. Sun protection is critical during the healing phase, and a gentle skincare routine will be recommended to support recovery. Dr. Zhu will provide a full aftercare plan and monitor your progress during follow-up visits.
Results and Maintenance
The skin will look brighter, smoother, and more refreshed once the peeling phase is complete. Fine lines soften, dark spots fade, and texture becomes more even—often with just one treatment. Many patients choose to undergo a series of peels spaced weeks apart to achieve deeper rejuvenation and maintain their results. With regular treatments and good skincare habits, chemical peels can become a valuable part of your long-term skin health plan. Dr. Zhu tailors every treatment to enhance your natural beauty and restore a radiant, healthy glow.