Chemical Peels

Aging skin is usually dull in appearance and presents with fine lines and wrinkles. This is a result of a buildup of proteins due to slower cellular turnover. Chemical peels will remove some of the surface protein build up that doesn’t allow for much light refraction.

The chemical peel will induce a controlled wound that will stimulate fibroblast activity and accelerate cell turnover. Increased fibroblast activity enhances collagen & elastin production and an increase in cell turnover will deepen dermal papilla.

This will result in younger, more youthful looking skin with fewer fine lines and wrinkles.

When there is hyperpigmentation or dark spots on the skin’s surface, chemical peels will help to remove surface proteins, however, in this case you will be removing proteins that are housing melanin. This will help to remove surface hyperpigmentation.

You are not changing the melanocyte activity or using any tyrosinase inhibitors, but this is removing the cells that are highly densely pigmented as well as accelerating cell turnover resulting in less time for melanin deposition. Especially in aging patients who are in a 40-45 day cell turnover. This will help to even out skin tone.

Salicylic Acid focuses on the sebum in the follicle and helps to erupt the impaction and clear the pore. Clients with congestion, black heads and who are overall oily are ideal candidates.

We offer several chemical peel options including VI Peel, Jessner, Lactic Acid and Body Peels.

The VI Peel is a medical-grade chemical peel designed to improve skin tone, texture, and clarity with minimal downtime. It’s safe for all skin types and tones, including deeper Fitzpatrick types, and is popular for treating pigmentation, acne, signs of aging, and sun damage.

The VI Peel contains a synergistic blend of powerful ingredients for all skin types, it is a special formulation that makes it safe for all skin types to enjoy the benefits of the peel. For the first time, African-Americans, Asians, Hispanics, and other darker skin types can experience anti-aging and restorative skin care previously unavailable. A single VI Peel will result in significant skin repair and give you a healthy glow to your skin.

Using the combined effects of TCA-Trichloracetic Acid), Salicylic Acid, Phenol, Retinoic Acid, Vitamins and Microelements it is a proven effective treatment for aging, hyperpigmentation and acne.

• Safe for Fitzpatrick I–VI

• Ideal for those who want results without aggressive downtime

• Excellent for melasma and PIH, especially in people of color

• A great starter peel for those new to chemical exfoliation

• Improve tone, texture and clarity of the skin

• Reduce or eliminate age spots, freckles and hyperpigmentation, including melasma

• Soften fine lines and wrinkles

• Reduce acne and scarring from acne

• Stimulate the production of collagen, for firmer, more youthful skin

• Retinoic Acid – inhibits melanin (pigment) production and increases cell turnover and exfoliation.

• Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) – acts by boosting collagen and exfoliates the skin.

• Salicylic Acid – acts to reduce the bacteria that cause acne by cleansing the pores, reducing inflammation.

• Phenol – numbs the skin to allow for a pain free chemical peel application.

• Ascorbic Acid – a powerful antioxidant that reverses free radicals, evens skin tone and helps prevent future damage.

• Hydroquinone -helps to reduce pigment helping to both lighten and brighten the skin.

• Kojic Acid – inhibits the production of pigment.

The amount of peeling usually depends on the type and strength of the peel. If there is no peeling after a Vi Peel, however, it may be due to failure to use the towelettes as part of the post care. Peeling may vary, however, each time you get a peel, you may peel in sheets, flake or sometimes, however, the peeling isn’t visible at all. The degree of the peel does not dictate how well the peel is working. It is still penetrating the skin layers.

Patients begin to see minor improvements approximately six days after treatment. Full results become apparent in four to six weeks, at which point the skin will appear firmer, clearer, and present a more youthful and radiant glow. A series is recommended during the fall through spring season.

A Jessner’s peel is a light- to medium-depth chemical peel created from a blend of salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resorcinol which all work together to exfoliate the outer layers of the skin. Patients also benefit from the noticeably youthful glowing skin after a Jessner’s peel. Once the peel is applied, it dissolves hardened skin cells within the outermost layer of the skin and triggers an inflammatory response from the skin just beneath the surface.

This process helps lead to the removal of sun damage, along with the improvement of fine lines, scarring, skin elasticity, and minor hyperpigmentation.

The Jessner peel works by removing the top layers of skin to reveal smoother, more even-toned skin beneath. How deep the peel penetrates depends on what kind of chemical peel you get — superficial, medium, or deep.

The Jessner peel is typically a medium peel, which means it removes skin cells from the top layer of your skin, the epidermis, and the upper portion of the middle layer, the dermis. However, it can also be used as a superficial peel, which has a faster healing time but needs to be performed more often to get the results of a deeper peel.

• It is very effective in treating the skin condition called melasma (skin discoloration) occurred due to various reasons.

• It helps to even out the skin tone and reverse hyperpigmentation. Also, it helps lighten the skin tone.

• It is an effective treatment in reducing acne as well as acne scars.

• It works as a great solution to reduce dark patches on the skin or age spots.

• It helps to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles effectively and shows results instantly.

• It is beneficial in improving the overall complexion of the skin.

• It completely rejuvenates the skin and restores its lost glow.

• It aids in reducing visibly large pores and gives smooth-looking skin.

• It is helpful in treating various other skin conditions such as pigment imperfection, darkening of the skin, regulation of excess oil or sebum etc.

A lactic acid chemical peel is a technique that uses a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of the skin by removing its damaged upper most layers. It promotes the growth of a new layer of skin that is smoother and younger-looking.

Lactic acid, a type of alpha hydroxy acid, is derived from sour milk and is used for the mildest, most gentle of chemical peels. It contains keratolytic AHA that smoothes skin and improves texture and is less irritating and drying, delivering smoother, softer and younger-looking skin while it helps diminish fine lines, acne, and hyperpigmentation (brown spots).

Lactic acid functions as an exfoliant on the skin. Its acid helps dissolve the glue-like substance that binds the outermost surface skin cells together, so that old skin cells are sloughed off to reveal fresher skin cells underneath.

A lactic acid peel does not come with the skin irritation or recovery time of deeper chemical peels, and it is therefore a good choice for people with sensitive skin or who have rosacea. It is also free of risks or complications, making it a good choice for those new to chemical peels.

Body VI Peels do all of the above but for larger areas of the body that are suffering from hyper-pigmented skin, acne, scarring and stretch marks. They stimulate anti-aging collagen, increasing cellular turnover, revealing smooth radiant skin. Perfect for décolleté, back, arms, legs and buttock.

Combining your treatment with a neuromodulator like Dysport®, Botox® or Xeomin® Jeuveau® for even greater results = Glo-Tox! After 2 weeks your skin will be flawless and glowing!

Type Best For

VI Peel Original Preventative care, sensitive skin, early signs of aging

VI Peel Precision Aging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles

VI Peel Precision Plus Hyperpigmentation, melasma, dark spots

VI Peel Purify Active acne, oily or congested skin

VI Peel Purify + Precision Plus Acne + post-acne scars and pigment

VI Peel Advanced More mature or sun-damaged skin

Day What Happens

Day 1 Slight tingling or pinkness after application; no visible peeling yet

Days 2–3 Skin feels tight; may darken or look tanned

Days 3–5 Peeling starts, especially around mouth, nose, and chin

Days 5–7 Peeling slows; healthy new skin begins to appear

1–2 Weeks Glowing, smoother skin; full results visible

Lunchtime Peel

The ZO Stimulator Peel is a mild, no-downtime chemical peel developed by ZO Skin Health, a medical-grade skincare line founded by dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi. It’s often referred to as the “lunchtime peel” because it’s quick, gentle, and gives an instant glow with minimal irritation.

🌟 What It Does:

The ZO Stim Peel is designed to:

• Exfoliate dead skin cells

• Stimulate cellular turnover

• Brighten and smooth skin tone

• Minimize fine lines, mild acne, and pigmentation

• Improve overall texture and radiance
  

🧪 Key Ingredients:

The peel uses a blend of AHA (alpha hydroxy acids), typically:

• Lactic acid

• Citric acid

• Salicylic acid
  

These exfoliate the skin and help:

• Reduce dullness

• Decongest pores

• Fade mild pigmentation
  

🕒 What to Expect During and After:

• Quick application (about 30 minutes total)

• Mild tingling or warmth during application

• No peeling or flaking expected

• Immediate glow and smoother texture

• Can be done in a series for better results
  

💡 Ideal For:

• All skin types

• First-time peel clients

• Busy professionals

• Brides or events prep

• Maintenance in a skincare regimen

ZO 3-Step Peel

The ZO 3-Step Peel, also known as the ZO Skin Health 3‑Step Stimulation Peel, is a professional-grade chemical peel developed by dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi. It targets skin texture, discoloration, aging, acne, and uneven tone using a three-phase protocol with minimal downtime—but more impact than a lunchtime peel   .

🧪 How It Works: Three Precision Steps

1. Peel Application A blend of 17% salicylic acid, 10% trichloroacetic acid (TCA), 5% lactic acid, along with saponins and glycerin to exfoliate skin’s outer layers while helping minimize irritation  .
   

2. Retinol Creme A medical-strength retinol cream (~6%) is immediately applied to stimulate deeper cell turnover and collagen formation  .
   

3. Calming Moisturizer A soothing, hydrating cream is used to minimize inflammation and support skin barrier recovery  .

✅ Who It’s For & What It Treats

• Works on all skin types and tones, though pre-conditioning is recommended, especially for higher risk of pigmentation 
  

• Targets concerns like:

  • Fine lines

  • Sun damage and melasma

  • Hypopigmentation and blemishes

  • Dull, rough texture

  • Enlarged pores

  • Active or residual acne

Jessner Peel

A Jessner Peel is a medium-depth chemical peel used to treat a range of skin concerns including acne, melasma, fine lines, sun damage, and uneven skin texture. It’s a classic, time-tested formula that combines three exfoliating agents to deeply exfoliate the outer layers of skin.

🧪 What’s in a Jessner Peel?

The original Jessner’s solution contains:

• 14% Salicylic Acid – unclogs pores, reduces oil, exfoliates

• 14% Lactic Acid – hydrates while exfoliating dead skin

• 14% Resorcinol – breaks down rough, thickened skin (like a peeling agent)
  

👉 Some modern versions omit resorcinol or add other acids (like TCA or retinoic acid) for enhanced results or reduced irritation.

🔥 What It Treats:

• Acne and oily skin

• Blackheads and whiteheads

• Melasma and hyperpigmentation

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Sun damage and uneven tone

• Mild scarring
  

🕒 What to Expect:

Day What Happens

Day 1 Tingling or mild burning during peel; skin may feel tight or red afterward

Days 2–3 Skin begins to darken or look leathery; dryness and tightness increase

Days 3–5 Peeling and flaking begin—especially around the mouth and nose

Days 5–7 Peeling resolves, revealing smoother, more even-toned skin underneath

💡 Key Benefits:

• Minimal downtime compared to deep peels

• Can be done in a series for cumulative results

• Works on most skin types (though caution is needed in darker skin tones to avoid post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
  

Lactic Acid Peel

A lactic acid peel is a gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) chemical peel used to exfoliate the skin, improve hydration, and brighten the complexion. It’s derived from milk (lactose) and is one of the most tolerable and hydrating peels—making it ideal for sensitive skin, first-time peel users, and drier or mature skin types.

🧪 What Lactic Acid Does:

Lactic acid works by:

• Dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells so they can slough off

• Increasing cell turnover

• Attracting moisture to the skin (it’s a humectant)

• Stimulating mild collagen production over time
  

🌟 Benefits of a Lactic Acid Peel:

• Improves dullness and uneven skin tone

• Gently treats dry, flaky skin

• Minimizes the appearance of fine lines

• Fades hyperpigmentation and melasma

• Helps with mild acne and congestion

• Enhances glow and softness

• Safe for pregnancy (in low concentrations, always check with OB)
  

🕒 What to Expect:

• During: Mild tingling or warmth

• After: Slight redness, mild dryness or tightness

• Downtime: Usually none to minimal; may have light flaking
  

Can be done in a series of 4–6 sessions, spaced 2–4 weeks apart.

✅ Ideal For:

• Dry, sensitive, or rosacea-prone skin

• First-time chemical peel clients

• Dehydrated or dull complexions

• Safe for all Fitzpatrick types when applied properly
  

Glow Tox

Combine the benefits of Botox with a VIPeel performed at the same time for a glowy lifted appearance in 2 weeks!

Treatment Purpose

Botox Smooths dynamic wrinkles, tightens skin subtly, prevents fine lines

VI Peel Exfoliates, fades pigment, stimulates collagen, evens tone and texture

🕒 When Are They Done?

They can be performed:

• Same day

• Botox first then VIPeel applied immediately after

• Peel helps remove surface debris, allowing glow-enhancing results to shine through
  

✅ Ideal For:

• Patients wanting a polished look before an event

• Early signs of aging, dullness, hyperpigmentation

• Acne-prone or textured skin

• Those ready for advanced skin rejuvenation
  

VI Body Peel

The VI Peel Body is a medium-depth chemical peel specifically formulated for use on larger areas of the body, such as the chest, back, shoulders, arms, legs, hands, and buttocks. It uses the same powerful ingredients found in the classic VI Peel for the face but adjusted for thicker skin and body-specific concerns.

💡 What It Treats:

• Body acne

• Scarring (acne scars, stretch marks, post-surgical scars)

• Hyperpigmentation and sun damage

• Rough texture, keratosis pilaris

• Sagging or crepey skin

• Uneven skin tone from friction, shaving, or hormonal changes (e.g. underarms, inner thighs)
  

🧪 Key Ingredients:

• TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid) – exfoliates, smooths skin texture

• Salicylic Acid – unclogs pores, treats acne

• Lactic Acid – hydrates and gently exfoliates

• Kojic Acid – brightens and reduces hyperpigmentation

• Vitamin C – antioxidant, brightens skin

• Phenol – improves tone and texture while providing mild anesthetic effect
  

These ingredients penetrate deep enough to treat textural issues and pigment, even on thick or sun-damaged body skin.

🕒 What to Expect:

Time Frame What Happens

Day 1 Treated area may feel tight or slightly warm

Days 2–3 Skin may begin to darken or feel dry

Days 3–7 Peeling and flaking begins, sometimes in sheets (especially back, chest, arms)

7–14 days Peeling resolves; smoother, brighter skin is revealed

🔁 Best results often seen with a series of 2–3 peels, spaced 4–6 weeks apart, depending on concern.

✅ Who It’s For:

• All Fitzpatrick skin types (I–VI)

• Those with visible sun damage, scarring, discoloration, or rough body texture
  

Clients who want to treat “backne”, bikini line darkness, or chicken skin (keratosis pilaris)