The sensation you feel during a chemical peel depends on its depth. For a light peel, you may feel a slight stinging, tingling, or warm sensation that subsides within a few minutes. For a medium peel, the sensation is more intense but manageable. Your provider will ensure your comfort and can use a fan or cool compresses to help soothe your skin.

The number of sessions depends on your skin concerns and the depth of the peel. For light peels, a series of three to six treatments spaced two to four weeks apart is recommended for optimal results. Medium and deep peels may only require a single treatment to achieve your goals.

Downtime varies based on the depth of the peel. With a light peel, you may experience some mild redness and flaking for a few days. With a medium peel, you can expect more significant redness, swelling, and peeling that can last for 5 to 7 days. Your provider will give you specific aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing.

For a light peel, you will see a brighter, smoother complexion once the initial flaking has subsided, within a week. For a medium peel, your most dramatic results will be visible once the peeling process is complete, typically within one to two weeks. The full benefits, including improved texture and reduced discoloration, will continue to develop over the following weeks.