Chemical peels have been a go-to skincare treatment for decades, and for good reason. They help exfoliate the skin, fade discoloration, reduce fine lines, and improve overall texture. But with so many options available, how do you know which is right for you?
Here, Dr. Chinyere Orafu and our team of experts at the Ohio Laser & Wellness Center break down the three main types — light, medium, and deep — so you can confidently choose the best peel for your skin goals.
A chemical peel is a skin-resurfacing treatment that uses a chemical solution to remove the outer layer of damaged skin. This process encourages new skin cell growth, leaving your face fresher and more youthful.
Depending on the strength of the peel, it can target anything from mild fullness to deep wrinkles and scars.
If you’re new to chemical peels or need a bit of a touch-up, we likely recommend a light peel. Also known as a superficial peel, this treatment gently exfoliates the outermost layer of skin using ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs).
Light peels are best for:
A light peel usually takes around 30 minutes, and you might feel a tingling sensation. There’s little to no downtime, but you should expect some mild symptoms similar to a sunburn.
We generally recommend multiple light peels to see the best results.
Medium peels penetrate deeper, targeting the middle layers of the skin. They often contain trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or more potent AHAs to address more prominent skin concerns.
Medium peels are best for:
Since medium peels go deeper, you probably feel a stinging or warming sensation during the treatment. Afterward, expect redness and peeling for 5-7 days. This peel requires more recovery time, but the payoff is smoother, more even-toned skin.
For those who want dramatic results or have more severe skin issues, deep chemicals are usually the best option — and the most intense. This treatment uses phenol or high-concentration TCA to penetrate the skin, effectively treating severe wrinkles, deep scars, and significant discoloration.
Deep peels are best for:
Because deep peels reach the lower layers of skin, they come with significant downtime, often 2 to 3 weeks, sometimes months. Your skin will peel, swell, and require careful aftercare.
So, how do you decide which peel is best? It all depends on your skin type, your concerns, and how much downtime you’re willing to commit to. A light peel is perfect if you’re looking for a glow-up before an event. A medium or deep peel might be better for deeper skin issues.
The best news is chemical peels aren’t one-size-fits-all. A consultation with Dr. Orafu can help determine which peel is right for you based on your unique skin type and goals. After a subtle refresh or a dramatic transformation, there’s a chemical peel to help you achieve radiant, youthful skin.
Want to learn more? Let’s talk and see if you’re a candidate by booking your consultation online or over the phone at our Dover or Canton, Ohio, office today.
