Do you feel like your skin has lost its glow? Are you struggling with lackluster tone, uneven texture, or lingering sun damage that no skincare product seems to fix? It can be frustrating to see these changes in the mirror day after day, especially when they make your skin look older or more tired than you feel.
If you’re looking to refresh dull, uneven, or sun-damaged skin, chemical peels in Worcester can reveal a smoother, brighter complexion. These versatile, non-surgical treatments can achieve significant improvement for a variety of concerns. With adjustable “depths,” chemical peels can be customized just for you.
At Worcester Dermatology Associates, we customize each peel to your unique skin type and concerns. With adjustable depths and proven results, chemical peels are one of the most versatile treatments we offer.
What Are Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels use specially formulated solutions to exfoliate the skin and stimulate cellular turnover. As the outer layers shed, the skin underneath appears fresher, smoother, and more even in tone. Depending on the depth of the peel, results can range from a subtle glow to a significant transformation in texture and tone.
These treatments are ideal for patients seeking noticeable results without the need for surgery or downtime. Peels can be performed as stand-alone treatments or combined with other cosmetic services for even greater impact.
Revealing Beautiful Skin: What Can Chemical Peels Treat?
Chemical peels remove upper layers of the skin to reveal the fresh new complexion beneath. They are often used to improve:
- Fine lines
- Hyperpigmentation (skin discoloration or age spots)
- Enlarged pores due to an improper daily skincare regimen
- Light sun damage
- Light freckling
- Minimal scarring
Our Chemical Peel Options
There are three common variations of chemical peels.
| Light Peels | Medium Peels | Deep Peels | |
| Peeling Agent | AHA, Microlaser | TCA, Microlaser | Microlaser |
| Improves | Skin texture, skin tone | Sun damage, fine lines | Deep wrinkles, pre-cancerous growth, severe sun damage |
| Discomfort | Minimal | Some stinging | Yes, requiring medication |
| Recovery | Minimal | 3 to 5 days | Several weeks |
| # of Treatments | Several | Several | Only one |
Light Peels (AHA Peels)
Light peels are typically formulated with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). They treat the outer layer of skin (the epidermis) and mildly stimulate collagen formation in the uppermost part of the deeper layer of skin (the dermis). They can smooth out rough and dry skin, improve the texture of sun-damaged skin, and even out skin tone.
Recovery is rapid after a light peel, usually consisting of minor flaking and mild redness for several days. A series of 4 to 6 treatments are generally required to obtain the best results. Improvements from an AHA peel are temporary, so periodic treatments are usually recommended to maintain the results.
Medium Peels (TCA or Microlaser)
Medium peels usually contain trichloroacetic acid (TCA). They can also be performed with an erbium laser (Microlaser peel) that can have significantly shorter recovery times and more predictable results. They are most often used to treat the effects of sun damage. They also diminish the appearance of blotchy skin by reducing the color contrast of surrounding skin.
After a medium peel, the upper layers of skin to flake off within 5 to 7 days. Most patients experience about 1 to 2 weeks of downtime, but feel like it’s “time well spent” when they see their results. A series of medium peels may be required for optimal improvement.
Deep Peels (Microlaser Peel)
Deep peels are able to treat more severe wrinkles, sun damage, and pre-cancerous growths. However, these dramatic results bring with them longer recovery and more extensive side effects. For instance:
- Deep peels can lighten the treatment area, so they are not recommended for people with dark skin. Not only will the skin become lighter, it will be much more important to protect it from the sun.
- Scarring may result if a deep peel is applied to areas other than the face.
- Recovery typically takes 1 to 2 weeks.
Deep peels can be performed with an erbium laser (Microlaser peel) for significantly shorter recovery times and more predictable results. When you’re considering a deep peel, it’s very important to choose a physician you can trust. You can trust Dr. Seth Kates to explain in detail the risks of a deep peel, to say “no” if it’s not a good fit for you, and to perform your peel as safely as possible should you choose to move forward.
What to Expect During Your Chemical Peel Treatment
Your experience begins with a personalized consultation, where we’ll assess your skin, discuss your concerns, and determine the best type and depth of peel for your goals. We’ll also review any medications or skincare products you’re using to ensure your treatment is safe and effective.
On the day of your peel, your skin will be thoroughly cleansed, and the chemical solution will be applied to targeted areas. You may experience a tingling, warming, or stinging sensation during the treatment, which varies depending on the strength of the peel. Light peels are generally very tolerable, while deeper peels may require a topical anesthetic or post-treatment care instructions.
After the peel, your skin will begin to exfoliate over the next few days. This can involve mild redness, dryness, flaking, or peeling, depending on the depth of treatment. We’ll provide aftercare guidance, including how to protect your skin from sun exposure and what products to use or avoid. Recovery time ranges from minimal (1–3 days) for light peels to 1–2 weeks for deeper resurfacing.
Choosing the Right Chemical Peel for You
Choosing the right chemical peel depends on your skin type, concerns, and the amount of downtime you’re comfortable with. Light peels are ideal for those looking to brighten dull skin or improve mild texture and tone with little to no recovery. Medium and deep peels target more advanced signs of aging, sun damage, or discoloration, but may involve several days or even weeks of healing.
At Worcester Dermatology Associates, we take a personalized approach to every treatment. During your consultation, a doctor will evaluate your skin and recommend the peel that best fits your goals and lifestyle. You’ll receive expert guidance, a detailed plan, and support every step of the way.
Other Skin Rejuvenation Options
We also offer a wide range of non-surgical treatments to complement or replace chemical peels.
Other skin rejuvenation options at our practice include:
- IPL (intense pulsed light): Targets redness, brown spots, and sun damage.
- Laser resurfacing: More targeted wrinkle and texture improvement.
- BOTOX® Cosmetic: Smooths expression lines like crow’s feet and forehead wrinkles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chemical Peels
How long does a chemical peel take?
The procedure itself typically takes 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the type and depth of the peel. Light peels are faster and can often be completed during a lunch break, while deeper treatments may require more preparation and post-treatment monitoring. We’ll walk you through the timing and expectations before your appointment.
When will I see results from my chemical peel?
You may begin to notice improvements within a few days as dead skin cells shed and new skin surfaces. Full results can take one to two weeks to appear, especially for medium and deep peels. Results build over time, and multiple sessions may be recommended for optimal benefits depending on your goals.
How should I care for my skin after a peel?
Post-peel care is essential to protect your skin and optimize your results. You’ll be advised to avoid sun exposure, wear sunscreen daily, and use gentle, hydrating skincare products. Avoid exfoliating products or retinoids during the recovery phase unless instructed otherwise.
Can I wear makeup after a chemical peel?
For light peels, you may be able to wear makeup within a day or two, once any initial redness subsides. For medium or deep peels, it’s best to wait until peeling stops and your skin has fully healed. This typically happens in 5 to 14 days. Wearing makeup too soon can interfere with the healing process or increase irritation.
Why Choose Worcester Dermatology Associates for Chemical Peels?
At Worcester Dermatology Associates, your chemical peel treatment is performed under the guidance of board-certified dermatologists with advanced expertise in skin health and cosmetic rejuvenation. Dr. Seth Kates and Dr. A. David Simkin bring over 50 years of combined experience in treating a wide range of skin concerns, from early signs of aging to sun damage and pigmentation issues.
With fully equipped offices in both Worcester and Chelmsford, we offer convenient access to safe and effective skin resurfacing treatments in a trusted medical environment. Each peel is customized to your skin type and goals, ensuring that your results are both noticeable and natural-looking.
Whether you’re looking to brighten your complexion, reduce acne scars, or smooth fine lines, you’ll receive a treatment plan tailored just for you and delivered to the highest standards.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Whether you’re looking for a light refresh or a more dramatic rejuvenation, chemical peels at Worcester Dermatology Associates can help you achieve smoother, younger-looking skin with minimal downtime.
At Worcester Dermatology Associates, we take the time to understand your unique concerns and goals. Then we craft a practical solution that meets your needs, and exceeds your expectations. Find out more when you request a cosmetic consultation online or call us at 508-744-3055 in Worcester or 978-705-6511 in Chelmsford.
