If a chemical peel doesn't peel, does that mean it didn't work?

Answers from doctors (1)


Paul Vitenas Jr., MD

Published on Mar 11, 2016

Thank you for your question. There are many levels of peel. Mild peels have minimal to no downtime and cause peeling and/or redness. Deeper peels will cause redness, peeling, sloughing, and mild sensitivity.

The skin condition, type of acid peel received, and the strength will depend on if you peel or not. However, even with no downtime, chemical peels will cause changes in the skin.

Peels are meant to stimulate the skin and no matter if it is a light, medium or deep peel, they will change the skin. It will cause the upper layers of the skin to slough--even if you don’t see it--revealing new, brighter, healthier skin. Peels will also help reduce brown spots, acne, excess oil, fine lines, and uneven texture.

If the peel is light, the results won’t be as dramatic as a deep, more stimulating peel. If you are wanting quicker, more dramatic results, you may want to consider a deeper peel and using medical grade skin care in conjunction with your in-office treatments.

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Answered by Paul Vitenas Jr., MD

Thank you for your question. There are many levels of peel. Mild peels have minimal to no downtime and cause peeling and/or redness. Deeper peels will cause redness, peeling, sloughing, and mild sensitivity.

The skin condition, type of acid peel received, and the strength will depend on if you peel or not. However, even with no downtime, chemical peels will cause changes in the skin.

Peels are meant to stimulate the skin and no matter if it is a light, medium or deep peel, they will change the skin. It will cause the upper layers of the skin to slough--even if you don’t see it--revealing new, brighter, healthier skin. Peels will also help reduce brown spots, acne, excess oil, fine lines, and uneven texture.

If the peel is light, the results won’t be as dramatic as a deep, more stimulating peel. If you are wanting quicker, more dramatic results, you may want to consider a deeper peel and using medical grade skin care in conjunction with your in-office treatments.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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