Chemical peels use carefully selected acids to accelerate the skin's natural exfoliation process, removing damaged surface cells and stimulating the renewal of healthier skin underneath. Depending on the formulation and depth, they address pigmentation irregularities, uneven texture, fine lines, congestion, and dullness.
At GhalMédica, chemical peels are selected and administered based on a thorough assessment of each patient's skin type, concern, sensitivity profile, and treatment history. Peel depth and formulation are always individualized. No two patients receive the same protocol.
Treatment time is approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Depending on the peel selected, some degree of flaking or shedding may occur over the following 3 to 7 days. Sun protection is essential during and after the treatment period.
Results vary. A consultation is required prior to treatment.
Book a ConsultationA gentle glycolic acid-based peel that accelerates cellular turnover and improves skin radiance with minimal downtime. Well-suited to patients new to chemical exfoliation, sensitive skin types, and those seeking progressive improvement in tone and texture without significant peeling. An excellent entry point for a regular resurfacing program.
Mild · No downtimeA medium-depth peel combining salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resorcinol to penetrate more deeply into the epidermis. Particularly effective for acne-prone skin, congestion, hyperpigmentation, and uneven texture. Jessner peels typically produce more visible shedding over 4 to 7 days and deliver more significant resurfacing results than superficial peels.
Medium depth · 4–7 days downtimePharmaceutical-grade peeling systems formulated to address specific skin concerns including advanced photoaging, pigmentation, and skin renewal. SkinCeuticals peel protocols are designed to complement the broader SkinCeuticals skincare system, optimizing penetration of active ingredients and supporting long-term skin health outcomes.
Customized · Varies by protocolAvoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning in the weeks prior to your peel. Tanned or sunburned skin significantly increases the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following chemical exfoliation. Consistent daily SPF use is essential during this period.
For medium-depth peels such as the Jessner, a pre-peel priming regimen using retinoids or prescribed topicals may be recommended by your practitioner. Priming the skin improves peel penetration and reduces the risk of uneven results. Follow your practitioner's specific instructions.
Discontinue retinoids, exfoliating acids, and any active skincare products as directed. Avoid waxing, threading, or any mechanical hair removal on the treatment area. Avoid blood-thinning medications where medically appropriate and alcohol for at least 24 hours prior.
Arrive with thoroughly clean skin — no makeup, moisturizer, sunscreen, or active skincare on the treatment area. Inform your practitioner of any changes to your health, medications, or skincare routine since your last appointment. Do not schedule a peel immediately before a major social event.
Pre-treatment instructions vary depending on the peel selected and are based on Canadian dermatology and aesthetic medicine best practices. Your GhalMédica practitioner will provide a personalized pre-peel protocol at consultation.
Use only the gentle, fragrance-free products recommended by your practitioner. Do not apply makeup, active skincare, or anything not specifically approved for the immediate post-peel period. Keep the skin cool, clean, and well moisturized. Avoid touching or rubbing the treated area.
Do not pick, peel, or manually remove shedding skin — allow the skin to shed naturally. Premature removal of peeling skin can cause scarring and uneven results. Keep the skin moisturized and protected. Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, and swimming during the peeling phase.
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning without exception — this is the single most important post-peel instruction. Freshly resurfaced skin is significantly more vulnerable to UV damage and hyperpigmentation. Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 2 weeks following a medium-depth peel.
Reintroduce active skincare products — retinoids, exfoliating acids, vitamin C — gradually and only as directed by your practitioner, typically after the peeling phase is complete. Prioritize barrier support and hydration during recovery. Your practitioner will confirm when it is safe to resume your full routine.
Post-treatment instructions vary depending on the peel selected and are based on Canadian dermatology and aesthetic medicine best practices. If you experience blistering, severe pain, or prolonged redness beyond the expected recovery period, contact GhalMédica promptly.
The appropriate peel is determined at consultation based on your skin type, concern, sensitivity, and treatment history. The Vivier Mild Peel is well suited to sensitive or peel-naive skin seeking gentle progressive improvement. The Jessner is better suited to patients with congestion, acne, or more pronounced pigmentation concerns. SkinCeuticals peels are selected based on specific protocol indications. Your practitioner will recommend the most appropriate option for your skin.
Not necessarily. The Vivier Mild Peel typically produces minimal to no visible peeling — exfoliation occurs at a cellular level that is not always perceptible. The Jessner peel typically produces more visible shedding over 4 to 7 days. Visible peeling does not indicate a better result — it reflects the depth of the peel selected, which is determined by your skin's needs, not by preference for downtime.
Chemical peels can be safely performed on darker skin tones when the appropriate formulation and depth are selected. Superficial peels such as the Vivier Mild are generally well tolerated across a wide range of skin tones. Medium-depth peels such as the Jessner require more careful assessment and preparation in patients with Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VI, due to the increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. At GhalMédica, this assessment is made at consultation before any peel is recommended.
Superficial peels such as the Vivier Mild can be performed every 3 to 4 weeks as part of an ongoing skin health program. Medium-depth peels such as the Jessner are typically spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart to allow adequate recovery and skin renewal between treatments. The frequency of SkinCeuticals peel protocols varies by formulation. Your practitioner will recommend a treatment schedule appropriate for your skin and goals.
with a consultation.
Dr. Sonya Ghalehii, MD will assess your skin, understand your concerns, and recommend a treatment path built around you — not a menu.