Signs of aging and sun exposure show up in many different ways: Patches of discoloration that darken over time, fine lines that linger after a smile fades, and acne scars that still show through makeup are just a few examples. Fortunately, skin problems like these can quickly be fixed with non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatments. Chemical peels are the most popular of these non-surgical treatments, with more than 1 million performed annually on average.
Chemical peels are a trusted treatment for uneven skin texture and sun damage because they can be tailored to address a wide range of concerns, from mild dullness and acne breakouts to stubborn pigmentation and deeper wrinkles.
Read on to learn how chemical peels work, what skin conditions they can treat, how to decide if this treatment is right for your skin, and where to find the best med spa in Marina del Rey to guide your treatment.
How Do Chemical Peels Work?
As one of the best non-surgical cosmetic procedures in Marina del Rey, a chemical peel is a skin-resurfacing treatment that uses a carefully selected chemical solution to remove damaged skin cells from the outer layers of the skin. This helps remove older skin cells so new skin cells move to the surface, creating a smoother, more even appearance. The treatment also encourages the skin's natural cell renewal process, which helps improve skin tone, texture, and clarity over time. Depending on the type of chemical peel used, treatment can target concerns that affect only the surface of the skin or reach deeper layers where signs of aging and sun damage develop.
Types of Chemical Peels in Marina del Rey
Chemical peels are separated into three different categories: superficial, medium, or deep peels. The differences between these levels include:
- Superficial peels use mild acids such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid to exfoliate the outermost layer of skin. These treatments often involve little downtime and are commonly used to improve dullness, mild discoloration, and acne.
- Medium-depth peels penetrate further into the skin and are frequently used to address more noticeable pigmentation issues, acne scars, and fine lines.
- Deep chemical peels reach the lower layers of the skin and may provide more dramatic improvement in wrinkles and sun damage.
What Skin Concerns Can Chemical Peels Treat?
One of the biggest reasons chemical peels remain popular is their ability to address several skin concerns with a single treatment approach. Chemical peels are a versatile treatment because the increased cell turnover triggered by the chemical peel helps reduce clogged pores, which improves active acne while also softening the appearance of acne scars, hyperpigmentation, age spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone caused by sun exposure or hormonal changes. Medium and deep peels also work by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by encouraging collagen production.
What Should You Expect Before, During, and After a Chemical Peel?
The chemical peel process begins with a consultation with the best esthetician in Marina del Rey to thoroughly review your medical history, skin concerns, and treatment goals. If a chemical peel is right for you, you’ll start by preparing your skin with specific products before treatment to support healing and improve results.
During the procedure itself, a personalized chemical solution is applied to the skin for a short amount of time. You may feel temporary tingling, warmth, or mild stinging. After treatment, the skin will look and feel similar to a sunburn for a couple of days as the peeling takes place. Following all aftercare instructions, including daily sun protection and gentle skin care, will help ensure the best results.
Are Chemical Peels Safe to Get?
Chemical peels are safe when performed by trained medical professionals. Common side effects include redness, dryness, flaking, and temporary sensitivity during the healing process. Some patients also experience mild swelling or discomfort from skin tenderness.
As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks that should be discussed during a consultation. These risks may include infection, scarring, or changes in skin pigmentation. Individuals with certain skin conditions, active infections, or a history of abnormal scarring may not be ideal candidates for all types of peels. Choosing the best esthetician in Marina del Rey significantly reduces the risks of adverse reactions.
Where to Find the Best Chemical Peels in Marina del Rey
Healthy-looking skin relies on choosing treatments that support your goals and fit your skin's unique needs. Chemical peels are the perfect treatment option when they are performed with a thoughtful, medically guided approach.
At Clear Medical, we use chemical peels as part of personalized treatment plans designed to help patients achieve smoother, brighter, and more refreshed skin. Our founder and medical director, Dr. Shawn Abrishamy, earned his medical degree after studying biology at California State University, Northridge, completed his clinical training in New York, and was recognized as Resident of the Year in Family Medicine at the University of California, Irvine. His experience in cosmetic dermatology, combined with his artistic eye for facial aesthetics and commitment to non-surgical rejuvenation, helps guide treatment decisions that prioritize both results and skin health.
If you are looking for the best chemical peels in Marina del Rey, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team to explore the treatment options that best align with your skin concerns and long-term goals.
