A chemical peel uses a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. It is helpful for those individuals with facial acne, wrinkles, large pores, brown spots, and uneven skin pigmentation.
Chemical Peels in Maryland
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Highly Effective Facial Rejuvenation
Our team of expert providers offers a wide range of chemical peels, from gentle to advanced formulations. Options include VI Peels, Jessner peels, Melasma peels, Universal peels, Advanced peels, PRX Derm Perfexion, phenol peels, trichloroacetic acid peels (TCA), and alpha hydroxy acid peels (AHAs). Each peel is tailored to your skin type and cosmetic goals, helping patients in Mount Airy, Frederick, and beyond achieve safe, natural-looking results.
Is a Chemical Peel Right for Me?
Peels are most often performed to refresh your appearance and boost self-confidence. They can also remove pre-cancerous growths, soften acne scars, and improve active acne. During your consultation, our providers will assess your skin and recommend the treatment best suited to your needs.
Chemical Peels Overview
Types of Peels
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
AHAs, such as glycolic, lactic, and fruit acids, are the mildest peels and provide subtle yet noticeable results. They smooth, brighten, and improve texture with minimal downtime, making them ideal for patients with busy schedules.
Uses
- Smooths rough, dry skin
- Improves sun-damaged texture
- Helps control acne
- Corrects pigment irregularities when combined with hydroquinone
- Serves as a pre-treatment for TCA peels
Considerations
- A series of treatments is often recommended
- Consistent sunscreen use is essential to maintain results
Universal Peel
Known as the “lunch time peel,” the Universal Peel is a superficial treatment that reduces fine lines and wrinkles and lightens sun damage. It can also rejuvenate the chest. Peeling usually begins within 2 to 5 days, with results visible in about a week.
Uses
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Diminishes sun damage on the face and décolletage
- Evens skin tone
Considerations
- Minimal downtime with mild peeling
- Safe for darker skin types, sensitive skin, and rosacea
- Best results often achieved with a series of three treatments
Jessner Peel
The Jessner Peel is a medium-depth option for fine lines, pigmentation, and photo-damage. A warm tingling is common during treatment, followed by tightness and moderate flaking. Within a week, skin appears clearer, firmer, and more even.
Uses
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Corrects photo-damage and discoloration
- Improves acne, oily skin, and texture
Considerations
- Recommended for thicker skin or those with pigmentation issues
- May cause moderate flaking for several days
- Pre-treatment with Retin-A may improve results
Advanced Peel
The Advanced Peel provides intensive resurfacing for dull tone and uneven texture. This peel is highly effective for stubborn hyperpigmentation and resilient skin types but is not recommended for sensitive skin or rosacea.
Uses
- Improves stubborn hyperpigmentation
- Evens tone and texture
- Promotes healthy skin renewal
Considerations
- Not suitable for sensitive skin or rosacea
- Longer downtime compared to other peels
- Typically requires just one treatment for results
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) Peel
TCA peels are versatile treatments available in varying concentrations, from superficial to deeper applications. They can improve wrinkles, blemishes, pigmentation, and laxity by stimulating new collagen.
Uses
- Reduces fine wrinkles
- Corrects pigmentation concerns
- Improves skin laxity
- Removes superficial blemishes
Considerations
- Suitable for the face, neck, chest, hands, and more
- May require pre-treatment with Retin-A or AHAs
- Typical recovery is 5 to 7 days for moderate peels
- Repeat treatments may be advised for optimal results
VI Peel
The VI Peel is a medical-grade treatment recommended for patients with significant sun damage. It exfoliates damaged skin, stimulates circulation, and encourages collagen production. Peeling begins 2 to 3 days after treatment and lasts about a week.
Uses
- Improves sun-damaged skin
- Enhances skin tone and texture
- Stimulates collagen for firmer skin
Considerations
- Peeling can last 7–10 days
- Noticeable results within days of treatment
- Pre-treatment with Retin-A may be advised
Specialty Peels
Melasma Peel
The Melasma Peel is a leading depigmentation treatment for eliminating dark spots and melasma across all skin types. A thick cream mask remains on the skin for 6 to 10 hours, followed by a second application four weeks later to address any remaining pigmentation. Patients typically notice progressive lightening and improved clarity.
Uses
- Reduces melasma (gray-brown facial patches)
- Treats post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne, laser treatments, or trauma
Considerations
- Requires two treatments spaced four weeks apart
- Minimal discomfort and no pretreatment needed
- Results improve over time with noticeable early lightening
PRX Derm Perfexion – “The No Peel, Peel”
This innovative peel stimulates collagen and skin regeneration without visible peeling or downtime. It delivers the benefits of a medium-depth peel while preserving the surface layer of skin. Results include immediate radiance and, with a series of treatments, long-term improvements in firmness and texture.
Uses
- Tightens and firms the skin
- Improves texture and hydration
- Stimulates collagen production
Considerations
- No visible peeling or downtime
- Safe for all skin types and seasons
- Works best in a series for cumulative results
After Your Treatment
Side effects vary by peel depth. AHA peels may cause temporary redness, flaking, or dryness. TCA peels may involve mild swelling and several days of peeling. Advanced peels require longer recovery but produce more transformative results. Our team will provide detailed aftercare guidance to ensure proper healing.
Getting Back to Normal
Patients receiving lighter peels typically return to normal routines immediately, while deeper peels require longer downtime but deliver more dramatic improvements. Daily sun protection is essential, and our office offers a variety of mineral-based sunblocks, including sheer, tinted, and moisturizing formulas.
