Skin Resurfacing
What Are Chemical Peels?
A chemical peel removes damaged outer layers of skin to reveal the fresher, healthier skin underneath. The result: smoother texture, more even tone, and a glow that's hard to get from at-home products alone. It's one of the most effective professional treatments for your complexion, and it doesn't require a long appointment or major downtime.
At Oak City MedAesthetics on Falls of Neuse Road in North Raleigh, we offer professional-grade chemical peels ranging from gentle superficial peels (no downtime, fresh brightness) to medium-depth peels that address hyperpigmentation, acne scarring, and sun damage. Our most popular option is The Perfect Derma Peel, a medical-grade peel that includes glutathione, an antioxidant the body produces naturally. It resurfaces your skin while delivering brightening benefits that keep working long after the peeling is done.
Never had a chemical peel before? Don't worry about the word "peel." Every treatment here is customized to your skin type, concerns, and goals. We'll walk you through everything, from choosing the right peel depth to your full aftercare plan. Serving North Raleigh, Wake Forest, and the Triangle.
Types of Chemical Peels
Superficial Peels
Sometimes called "lunchtime peels." These gentle treatments use mild acids like glycolic or lactic acid to exfoliate the outermost layer of skin. Great for maintaining a healthy glow, smoothing minor texture issues, and keeping pores clear. There's virtually no downtime. You might notice light flaking for a day or two, but most clients go right back to their routine. Repeat every few weeks for cumulative results.
Medium-Depth Peels
If you want more significant correction, medium-depth peels go deeper. They target moderate sun damage, fine lines, and uneven pigmentation using stronger acid formulations (often trichloroacetic acid, or TCA). Expect visible peeling over 3 to 5 days. Worth it. As the old skin sheds, what comes through is noticeably smoother, clearer, and more youthful.
The Perfect Derma Peel, $300
This is one of our most requested treatments, and for good reason. The Perfect Derma Peel is a medical-grade, medium-depth peel with a signature ingredient: glutathione, an antioxidant the body produces naturally. It helps lighten and brighten your skin while supporting cell turnover. The treatment takes just 20 minutes. You'll see visible results in about 7 days as peeling reveals fresh, luminous skin. It works for all skin types and tones, so it's a fit for melasma, hyperpigmentation, acne, fine lines, or general dullness.
What Chemical Peels Treat
Hyperpigmentation & Melasma
Chemical peels break up the excess melanin deposits behind dark patches, age spots, and melasma. By removing pigmented outer layers, they promote even-toned skin regeneration. Most clients see a more uniform complexion after a series of treatments.
Sun Damage & Aging
Years of UV exposure show up as fine lines, rough texture, and discoloration. Chemical peels speed up your skin's natural renewal process and stimulate collagen production, revealing fresher skin beneath the surface. Regular peels can reverse visible sun damage and slow the aging process over time.
Acne & Acne Scars
If you're dealing with active breakouts or post-acne scarring, chemical peels clear congested pores, reduce surface bacteria, and promote turnover of scarred tissue. Salicylic acid peels work especially well for oily, acne-prone skin. Medium-depth peels can soften shallow acne scars over time.
Dull & Uneven Texture
If your skin looks tired, rough, or just not as vibrant as it used to be, a chemical peel can make a real difference. It strips away the dead skin cell buildup that accumulates over time and reveals a brighter, smoother surface underneath. Many clients see an immediate improvement in radiance after just one treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a chemical peel?
Superficial peels can be repeated every 2 to 4 weeks. Medium-depth peels like The Perfect Derma Peel are typically spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Sarah will recommend a schedule based on your skin concerns, skin type, and the peel you're using.
What does a chemical peel feel like?
Most clients feel a mild tingling or warm sensation during application. It lasts a few minutes. Superficial peels are very comfortable. Medium-depth peels may produce a brief sting, but it's temporary and fades quickly once the peel is neutralized or absorbed.
How long is the recovery?
It depends on the peel. Superficial peels have virtually no downtime, maybe light flaking for a day or two. Medium-depth peels like The Perfect Derma Peel involve 3 to 5 days of visible peeling. During that time, keep your skin moisturized and stay out of direct sun.
Are chemical peels safe for dark skin tones?
Yes, when performed by a qualified provider. The Perfect Derma Peel, for example, is formulated to be safe for all skin tones, including Fitzpatrick types IV through VI. The key is matching the right peel type and strength to your skin. During your consultation, we'll evaluate your skin and recommend the best option.
Can I wear makeup after a chemical peel?
After a superficial peel, you can usually apply mineral makeup the same day. For medium-depth peels, wait until the active peeling stops (usually 5 to 7 days) before putting makeup on. We'll give you detailed aftercare instructions specific to your treatment.