There is always time to take care of your face and give yourself the treatment you deserve. Learn today how much time you need to set aside to make that face glow!
Chemical Peels have proven themselves to be the go-to solution for achieving clear, wrinkle-free skin. Are you worried about how much time they may take from your day? Continue reading to find out how you can start your wrinkle-clearing journey today.
What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a popular cosmetic treatment, created to improve the appearance of skin by exfoliating dead cells and promoting new growth. It is believed that ancient Egyptians used the lactic acid from sour milk to achieve what is known today as a “chemical peel.” However, the modern approach primarily includes glycolic acid; which is derived from sugar cane.
How long do Chemical Peels Take?
The duration of a chemical peel depends on:
- Type of peel (light, medium, or deep)
- Area being treated (face, neck, hands)
- Preparation required (skin cleansing, pre-peel solution)
- Skin type and sensitivity
Typical Procedure Times by Peel Type:
- Light Peel (Face Only): ~30 minutes
- Medium Peel (Face, or Face + Neck): 30–60 minutes
- Deep Peel (Face, Neck, Hands): 90 minutes or longer
The duration of a chemical peel depends on several factors, including the type of peel and the area being treated. There are three main types of peels: light, medium, and deep. Each type targets different layers of the skin, providing varying degrees of results and requiring different preparation times, due to their intensity.
Preparation time is contingent upon the intensity of the peel. For instance, deeper peels may require more extensive skin preparation, such as cleansing and applying a pre-peel solution. Additionally, your skin type and condition can affect the duration and outcome of the chemical peel, as individuals with more sensitive skin might require added time for preparation and post-treatment care.
The area of the skin being treated also plays a role in determining how long the procedure will take. Most people opt for chemical peels only on their face, but this solution can also be applied to the neck and hands. Treating a larger surface area will naturally extend the cleaning, application, and removal time.
If you plan to receive a light chemical peel (applied only to your face), you can expect the procedure to last roughly thirty minutes. In contrast, a deep chemical peel (covering the face, neck, and hands) can take about ninety minutes or longer. Medium chemical peels are stronger than light peels. However, they are less intense than deep peels, typically taking about thirty to sixty minutes, depending on the area(s) treated.
How Often Can You Get a Chemical Peel?
- Light Peels: Can be done once a month; results last longer with proper skincare.
- Medium Peels: Performed every 3–4 months due to deeper skin penetration.
- Deep Peels: Typically performed only once for severe acne scars or deep wrinkles to prevent skin damage.
A light chemical peel may be performed once a month. However, a patient can extend the duration of his or her results by adhering to a proper skincare routine. Medium chemical peels may be redone after three to four months, due to how deep the treatment affects the skin.
Finally, deep chemical peels are typically performed either when there is serious acne scarring or when treating deep wrinkles. Because of the intensity of the treatment, deep chemical peels may only be performed once (as any more could result in serious skin damage). This practice is intended for you to get the best results and the most out of your one-time use.
FAQ: Chemical Peels
Are chemical peels painful?
Most patients experience a mild tingling or warmth during light and medium peels. Deep peels may require anesthesia and more recovery time.
What is the recovery time?
Light peels usually require minimal downtime (1–3 days), medium peels about a week, and deep peels can take several weeks for full healing.
Can I do a chemical peel if I have sensitive skin?
Yes, but your provider may recommend a lighter peel or extra preparation to minimize irritation.
Will my skin peel after the treatment?
Some peeling or flaking is normal, especially with medium and deep peels. Light peels may produce minimal visible peeling.
How soon will I see results?
Light peels can show results within a few days. Medium and deep peels reveal smoother, clearer skin as it heals over 1–4 weeks.