Sun spots & uneven tone photo
Sun spots & uneven tone
StrongThe most common reason.
A controlled acid treatment that removes damaged outer layers so smoother, more even skin can grow back.
Medical review pending
Review date to come
Key Facts
3 depths
Superficial, medium and deep.
3–6
Light peels in a series, 2–4 weeks apart.
5–7 days
Typical peeling after a light-to-medium peel.
SPF daily
Before and after, every day.
What Is It?
A clinician paints an acid onto clean skin for a set time. It loosens the outermost layers, and as skin heals it replaces them with fresher, smoother, more even-toned skin.
Common acids
AHA from sugar cane. Brightening.
BHA that clears pores. Acne.
Trichloroacetic acid. Medium depth.
The deepest. Rarely used today.
Often Used For
The most common reason.
Salicylic peels help.
Medium and deep peels.
Superficial peels only.
Medium peels.
Lasers do more.
How It Works · Interactive
Brushed on in even layers.
Bonds between cells break to a set depth.
Damaged layers flake off over days.
Fresh cells and new collagen.
Types & Options
Glycolic, lactic, salicylic, Jessner’s. 1–7 days downtime; series of 3–6.
TCA 35%. 7–14 days downtime; usually one.
Phenol–croton oil. 2–3 weeks+; needs sedation and monitoring.
Risks & Side Effects
Important. Deeper skin tones: choose superficial peels and an experienced provider.
How to Prepare
Daily SPF, no tanning; a brightening cream if you darken easily.
Stop retinoids and acids; no waxing.
Start antivirals if you get cold sores.
Come bare-faced.
During the Procedure
Removes oil so the acid absorbs evenly.
Ointment on lips, nostrils and eye corners.
Stinging that peaks, then eases.
Calming cream and SPF.
Recovery & Aftercare
Pink and tight, like a mild sunburn.
Darkening, then flaking or peeling.
Peeling finishes; fresh pink skin.
Even tone.
Results & What to Expect
Glow for weeks; repeat the series.
Months to a year or more.
Many years.
Cost & Choosing a Provider
Per peel.
[$ range]
Per peel.
[$ range]
Per peel.
[$ range]
Alternatives
If…
you can’t take any downtime
If…
you have deep wrinkles
If…
you have melasma
Common Questions
Light peels sting for a few minutes; deep peels use sedation.
Yes — superficial peels with an experienced provider.
Light peels every 2–4 weeks in a series.
Often the next day after a light peel.
Dermapedia is for education only and is not medical advice. It does not create a doctor–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified clinician about your own skin.