Chemical peels have long been a cornerstone of advanced skincare—and for good reason. When performed using medical-grade formulas and protocols, peels can dramatically improve the skin’s texture, tone, clarity, and overall health. From smoothing fine lines and fading pigmentation to stimulating collagen and clearing acne, chemical peels are a transformative option for many skin types and concerns.
In our Practice, we use some of the most trusted and effective options available. These include the SkinCeutical® Peel Portfolio, SkinMedica® Peel Portfolio, VI Peel Portfolio, and the revolutionary WiCo Derm Perfexion™ Peel.
Why Chemical Peels Work
Chemical peels use exfoliating acids and active ingredients to remove the outer layers of dead or damaged skin, revealing healthier, fresher skin underneath. Depending on the formulation, they can also target deeper layers of the skin to stimulate cellular turnover and collagen production.
Peels are categorized by depth:
- Superficial peels treat surface-level dullness and congestion.
- Medium-depth peels address pigmentation, acne scars, and early signs of aging.
- Deeper peels are typically performed under physician supervision and treat more severe wrinkles and sun damage.
Who Are Peels For?
Medical-grade peels are highly customizable and can benefit a wide range of patients, including those with:
- Hyperpigmentation or melasma
- Acne and acne scars
- Fine lines and rough texture
- Sun damage and uneven skin tone
- Dull or congested skin
Even sensitive or mature skin types can benefit from modern peel technology, thanks to advanced formulations that minimize downtime while maximizing results.
Exploring the Peel Portfolio
1. SkinCeuticals® Professional Peels
SkinCeuticals® offers a comprehensive peel system developed by dermatologists and backed by clinical research. Some of the most popular options include:
- Micropeel Sensitive Solution – Ideal for first-time peel patients or those with sensitive skin, this lactic acid-based peel provides gentle exfoliation with minimal irritation.
- Micropeel 20 or 30 – Glycolic acid peels that improve skin tone and texture with little to no downtime.
- Micropeel Plus 20/30 – A salicylic acid-based peel designed for acne-prone or oily skin, targeting breakouts, blemishes, and clogged pores.
These peels are often used in a series and are customizable to suit the individual’s skin condition and goals.
2. Vitalize® Peel by SkinMedica®
The Vitalize® Peel is a medium-depth peel containing retinoic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol, designed to visibly improve skin texture and tone after just one treatment. It’s particularly effective for:
- Melasma
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Sun damage
- Mild acne scarring
This peel causes mild to moderate peeling over 2–5 days and is suitable for all Fitzpatrick skin types, making it a versatile choice in medical aesthetics.
3. VI Peel
VI Peel is a fan-favorite thanks to its strong results paired with relatively minimal downtime. This peel line uses a blend of TCA (trichloroacetic acid), retinoic acid, salicylic acid, phenol, and vitamin C, targeting:
- Fine lines
- Acne
- Pigmentation
- Textural irregularities
Options like VI Peel Precision Plus are specially formulated for stubborn melasma and pigmentation, while VI Peel Purify helps treat active acne and acne scars. Most patients experience visible peeling by day 3, followed by clearer, brighter skin within a week.
4. PRX® Derm Perfexion® from WiQo
The Perfexion® is in a class of its own. Technically, a no-peel, no-downtime biorevitalization treatment, it combines 33% TCA with hydrogen peroxide and kojic acid, allowing it to deeply stimulate the dermis without disrupting the surface of the skin. This innovative formulation means:
- No visible peeling
- No photosensitivity (can be used year-round)
- No downtime
It is ideal for:
- Lifting and tightening
- Reducing fine lines and laxity
- Treating scars and stretch marks
- Enhancing glow and skin texture
Perfexion® is especially popular among patients who want results without the downtime associated with traditional peels.
Choosing the Right Peel for You
The best peel for your skin depends on your specific concerns, skin type, lifestyle, and tolerable level of downtime. A licensed medical provider or aesthetician will assess your skin and tailor a protocol that may include:
- A single powerful treatment
- A series of lighter peels spaced 4-6 weeks apart
- Combination therapies with microneedling or other modalities
Medical-grade chemical peels offer real results when administered by trained professionals. Whether you’re looking to refresh your complexion, clear acne, or turn back the clock on sun damage, there’s a peel that fits your needs.
-Jennifer Quigley, Lead Licensed Medical Aesthetician
