Chemical Peels

What Are Chemical Peels?

Chemical peels are a proven dermatologic treatment that refine skin texture and tone by removing layers of damaged skin. At Cosmedica Dermatology in Washington, D.C., peels are carefully customized by our physician-led team to target concerns such as acne scarring, fine lines, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone.

This treatment works by applying a medical-grade solution to exfoliate the skin and stimulate cellular renewal. Depending on your needs, we offer superficial, medium-depth, and deep peels—each designed to reach different layers of the skin for varying degrees of correction and recovery.

Superficial peels gently smooth and brighten the surface, while deeper peels can address more advanced signs of aging or scarring. The face, neck, and décolletage are commonly treated areas. Post-treatment, patients may experience temporary redness, peeling, or sensitivity. Downtime and results vary based on peel depth and skin type.

During your consultation, we evaluate your skin and goals to select the safest, most effective peel for your complexion—especially important for patients with melanin-rich skin. Our approach ensures treatment is both precise and protective, helping reveal healthier, more radiant skin with lasting results.

What to Expect with Chemical Peel Treatments?

At Cosmedica Dermatology in Washington, D.C., every chemical peel treatment begins with a comprehensive skin evaluation to determine the ideal peel strength—superficial, medium-depth, or deep—based on your skin type, tone, and specific concerns. During the procedure, a medical-grade chemical solution is applied to exfoliate damaged skin layers, stimulate cell turnover, and promote skin renewal.

Patients may experience a warm or tingling sensation during the application, followed by redness, dryness, or visible peeling over the following days. The intensity of these effects—and the overall recovery time—depends on the depth of the peel. Superficial chemical peels often involve little to no downtime, while deeper peels require more aftercare and healing time.

As the skin regenerates, improvements in tone, texture, and clarity become increasingly visible. Results continue to refine in the weeks following treatment. Every patient receives a personalized post-care plan to support healing, protect the skin barrier, and enhance overall outcomes—ensuring the treatment is both safe and effective.