Dr. Lauren Cho
Cosmetic Dermatologist, MD, Board-Certified Dermatologist
A chemical peel uses a controlled acid solution to remove damaged outer layers of skin, revealing fresher, more even-toned skin underneath. Think of it as a deep exfoliation that triggers your skin's natural renewal process. Light peels (glycolic, lactic acid) work on the epidermis—they brighten skin, reduce mild discoloration, and have minimal to no downtime. Medium peels (TCA) penetrate to the upper dermis, targeting moderate sun damage, deeper pigmentation, and fine lines. These cause 5-7 days of peeling. Deep peels (phenol) reach the mid-dermis and dramatically improve deep wrinkles and significant sun damage, but require 2+ weeks of recovery. For dark spots specifically, a series of light peels or a single medium-depth TCA peel is typically effective. The "acid" part sounds scary, but it's a carefully controlled medical treatment. Your provider selects the right type and strength for your skin. The results—more even tone, smoother texture, reduced dark spots—are well worth the brief treatment.