Chemical peels are a widely used cosmetic treatment in iskindermatology, offering quick, straightforward, and safe results with minimal recovery time. While some may hesitate due to outdated images of severe reactions, modern chemical peels have been safely performed for years and are now a gentle, non-invasive option for addressing acne, acne scars, signs of aging, and sun-damaged skin. Our skin care experts are available to help you choose the most suitable peel for your needs.
Chemical peels are a method for enhancing skin appearance. During the procedure, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, which causes the outer layers to peel away and encourages the growth of new skin. This fresh skin is typically smoother, less wrinkled, and often has a more even tone compared to the previous layer.
Millions of chemical peels are performed annually. Dermatologists have decades of experience using different peeling agents and are highly skilled in carrying out all forms of this treatment. Chemical peeling slows down the aging process, and has emerged as an exciting anti-aging procedure.
Chemical peels are commonly used to treat fine lines, particularly beneath the eyes and around the mouth. They can help reduce or even eliminate wrinkles caused by sun exposure, aging, and genetics. However, deeper wrinkles, sagging, and bulges typically do not respond to peels and may require other cosmetic surgical options. Our medical estheticians can recommend the most suitable treatment for your specific needs.
Chemical peels can also address mild scarring and certain types of acne. Additionally, they may improve skin pigmentation issues such as sun spots, age spots, liver spots, freckles, blotchiness from birth control pills, and dull skin tone or texture. Sun-damaged areas and rough, scaly patches may also benefit from this treatment. It is important to use sunscreen or sunblock alongside chemical peels to help prevent pigmentation from returning.
Chemical peels can be applied to the face, neck, chest, hands, arms, and legs. Depending on the extent of skin damage, superficial, medium, or deep peels may be used for improvement. Generally, deeper peels require a longer recovery period. Your medical esthetician will advise you on the most suitable peel for your skin concerns.
During a chemical peel, a specialized solution is carefully applied to the skin. This process causes the outer layers to separate and eventually peel away—sometimes visibly, but often as subtle “micro” peeling—revealing fresher, revitalized skin beneath.
Most patients feel a warm or hot sensation for about five to ten minutes, followed by some stinging. Deeper peels can be more uncomfortable and may require medication during or after the treatment.
The sensation experienced during a peel can range from mild to intense sunburn, depending on the type of peel. Superficial peels often cause redness and scaling for three to five days, although many patients have only “micro” peeling that is barely visible but still occurs at the microscopic level. After a chemical peel, it’s important to avoid excessive sun exposure, as the new skin is delicate and more prone to damage. The team at Toronto Dermatology Centre will give you the necessary aftercare instructions to support your skin’s healing process.
Chemical peels may cause temporary or permanent changes in skin color, especially in certain skin types or for those with risk factors like birth control use, pregnancy, or a family history of pigmentation. They cannot address loose or sagging skin and may lead to persistent redness or, rarely, scarring. There is also a small risk of reactivating cold sores in susceptible individuals. Patients should inform their medical esthetician about any history of keloids, unusual scarring, facial radiation, or cold sores before treatment so that appropriate precautions can be taken.
While chemical peels cannot alter pore size or eliminate broken blood vessels, they may help improve their appearance. Consult our skin experts to determine if a peel is suitable for you.