Medical Grade Chemical Peel Specialist in Philadelphia, PA

A medical-grade chemical peel is a facial exfoliant used to improve skin tone and texture. It is also a clinical resurfacing procedure that reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, diminishes acne, improves uneven pigment distribution, and enhances moisture retention. The primary function of chemical peels is to remove the dead cells on the surface of the skin. The results reveal smoother, healthier skin by exfoliating blocked pores and dull skin.

Chemical peels are one of the most versatile cosmetic treatments available. They can be performed alone to effectively treat several complexion concerns, such as pigmentation irregularities, roughness, freckles, acne, minor wrinkles and lines, photodamage, and dullness. Alternatively, it can be performed in conjunction with another cosmetic skin treatment, such as hydra facials and fillers, to achieve a well-rounded complexion rejuvenation.

The intensity of the chemical peel, from light to deep, is determined by the condition being treated and the patient’s skin type. The clinician will go over what type of chemical peel will work best for you during the consultative process prior to treatment. You should also express any medical conditions you may have or medications you may be taking and express your goals for the treatment. This will assist you in making the proper selection.

The duration of the results of chemical peels depends on what type is being used. Light or superficial chemical peels typically last around one to two months. These last the shortest as they do not penetrate as deeply. Medium chemical peels generally last around two to six months, lasting longer than light peels as they work deeper within the skin, correcting more problems. Deep treatments are the most intense of chemical peels, and since they penetrate so deeply into the dermis, results can last for several years. In order to prolong the results of a chemical peel, it is important to be vigilant about sun protection after any peel treatment. This can be achieved by applying sunscreen, wearing a sunhat, or staying indoors.

If you or someone you know is looking for trusted medical-grade chemical peel treatments, come to the Center for SmartLipo & Plastic Surgery today. Our kind and compassionate professionals are experienced in administering medical-grade chemical peels and can provide you with beautiful, rejuvenated skin. For more information on our medical-grade chemical peels, contact our office and get in touch with a member of our specialist team.

A light, medium, and deep chemical peel differ mainly in how deeply they penetrate the skin and the type of results they produce. Light chemical peels gently exfoliate only the outermost layer of the skin (the epidermis). They are ideal for brightening dull skin, smoothing rough texture, and treating mild acne or early fine lines. With minimal downtime—usually some light flaking—patients can return to normal activities quickly, making these peels a popular maintenance option.

Medium chemical peels reach the upper dermis, making them more effective for moderate wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven pigmentation. Because these peels penetrate deeper, you can expect several days of peeling, redness, and sensitivity. The results are more dramatic than those of a light peel and typically last longer, but they require a short recovery period.

Deep chemical peels provide the most intensive skin rejuvenation by reaching the mid to lower dermis. They are used for deep wrinkles, severe sun damage, and significant texture issues. These peels involve the longest downtime, often including redness and swelling that can last weeks. However, the results are transformative and long-lasting, making deep peels a powerful option for those seeking significant improvement in skin quality.

To get the best results from your chemical peel, you’ll want to prepare your skin for several days to a few weeks beforehand. This allows your skin barrier to strengthen, reduces inflammation, and helps the peel penetrate evenly.

Recommended Pre-Treatment Steps

1. Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer daily
Keep the skin hydrated and balanced. Well-moisturized skin tolerates peels better and heals faster.

2. Apply sunscreen every day
Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ and reapply as needed. Sun exposure before a peel increases your risk of hyperpigmentation afterward.

3. Start pre-conditioning products if recommended
Your provider may suggest specific formulations such as:
Retinoids (Retin-A) to promote cell turnover (usually discontinued 5–7 days before the peel)
AHA/BHA exfoliants to prep the skin and improve penetration
Hydroquinone or pigment-balancing creams for patients prone to melasma or post-inflammatory pigmentation
Not everyone needs these products, so follow the provider’s specific plan.

4. Treat any active skin conditions first
If you have acne flares, dermatitis, an infection, or active inflammation, your provider may recommend controlling these issues before performing a peel.

What to Avoid Before the Peel

1. Stop retinoids 5–7 days before treatment
This includes tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene, and strong retinol products. They can make your skin overly sensitive during the peel.

2. Avoid exfoliating scrubs, acids, and home peels
No AHA/BHA exfoliants, benzoyl peroxide, scrubs, or microdermabrasion for at least 5–7 days.

3. Do not wax, thread, or use depilatory creams
Hair removal should be avoided at least 1 week prior to prevent irritation and skin lifting.

4. Avoid tanning, sunburn, or tanning beds
Any sun irritation increases the risk of uneven pigmentation.

5. Avoid harsh or irritating products
Skip products with:
High-strength vitamin C
Astringents or drying toners
Fragranced skincare
Alcohol-based products

6. Disclose all medications to your injector
Some antibiotics, acne medications (like isotretinoin), or photosensitizing drugs may affect suitability for a peel.

To achieve truly smooth, vibrant skin, medical-grade exfoliation is essential. At the Center for SmartLipo & Plastic Surgery, Dr. Durvi Patel, MD, and our experienced aesthetic team specialize in customizing chemical peels—from light, superficial peels to deeper resurfacing treatments. Dr. Patel emphasizes that a chemical peel is one of the most versatile procedures for targeting multiple complexion concerns simultaneously: reducing fine lines and wrinkles, diminishing acne and acne scars, and correcting pigmentation irregularities like sunspots. By carefully peeling off the outermost layer of dead skin cells, we reveal the healthier, glowing skin beneath, effectively improving your skin’s texture, tone, and moisture retention. Schedule your consultation with our specialists to determine which peel intensity is right for your goals. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 940 Town Center Dr Suite F20, Langhorne, PA 19047. We serve patients from Langhorne PA, Philadelphia PA, Newtown PA, Levittown PA, Bensalem PA, Yardley PA and surrounding areas, and Bucks County Region.