About Face Medical Aesthetics

Chemical Peels in Palm Desert & La Quinta, CA

Chemical peels are a customizable, non-surgical way to refresh tone and texture—helping reveal smoother, brighter-looking skin. Dr. Kenneth Jesser and our team tailor peel depth and ingredients to your skin type, goals, and downtime preferences.

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Light peel Medium peel Deep peel
Overview

What are chemical peels?

A chemical peel is a skin-resurfacing treatment where a solution is applied to exfoliate the outermost layers of skin. As the surface sheds, new skin appears smoother and more even in tone. Depending on peel depth, a peel may also support collagen remodeling over time.

What can chemical peels help with?

Chemical peels can target multiple concerns at once—especially when paired with a smart skincare plan and sun protection.

Fine linesSoftens the look of early wrinkles and creasing.
Uneven toneHelps improve visible discoloration and dullness.
Acne + congestionCan help clear pores and reduce breakouts.
TextureSmoother-looking skin and refined surface.
Sun damageImproves the appearance of photoaging over time.
Acne marksMay help the look of certain superficial scars/marks.

Your plan is based on your skin type, concerns, and how much downtime you can take. We’ll recommend the best peel strength and schedule during your consultation.

Options

Types of chemical peels

Peel depth is selected based on your skin type, goals, and desired downtime. Your provider will confirm what’s appropriate and safe.

Light / Superficial
Fresh-Glow Peel

A gentle peel often using AHAs/BHAs to brighten and refine the surface with minimal downtime.

Best for: dullness, mild discoloration, fine lines, congested pores
Downtime: typically minimal (mild dryness/peeling)
Medium
Tone + Texture Peel

A deeper peel (often TCA-based) that can address more visible tone and texture concerns.

Best for: sun damage, uneven pigment, moderate texture
Downtime: moderate (peeling/redness varies)
Deep
Transformational Peel

A more intensive peel selected for specific cases; requires more recovery and careful aftercare planning.

Best for: deeper lines/scars or significant photoaging (case-dependent)
Downtime: longer recovery (provider-guided)
Experience

What to expect

During treatment

Your skin is cleansed and the peel solution is applied for a controlled amount of time. Many patients feel a mild tingling or stinging sensation. We’ll guide you through comfort steps and timing based on peel depth.

Aftercare & recovery

Recovery depends on peel depth. You may experience temporary redness, dryness, and peeling. We’ll give you clear aftercare instructions to support healing, including sun protection and gentle skincare.

Results vary, and a series may be recommended for best outcomes—especially for acne, pigment, or texture goals.

FAQ

Chemical Peels: FAQs

Are chemical peels safe for all skin types?
Many skin types can be treated, but peel type and strength must be selected carefully—especially for patients prone to pigmentation changes. A consultation helps determine the safest option for you.
How many peel treatments will I need?
It depends on your goals and the peel depth. Some people start with a series of light peels spaced weeks apart, while medium/deeper peels may be less frequent. Your provider will recommend a plan.
Can chemical peels help acne and clogged pores?
Certain peels (including salicylic acid-based peels) can help reduce congestion and improve acne-prone skin. We’ll guide peel selection based on your acne type, skin sensitivity, and current skincare products.
What downtime should I expect?
Light peels often have minimal downtime, while medium or deeper peels can involve more noticeable peeling and redness. Recovery varies and will be discussed before treatment.
Can I combine chemical peels with other treatments?
Sometimes—depending on timing and your skin’s sensitivity. Your clinician can recommend a sequence that complements services like resurfacing or injectables without over-irritating the skin.
What should I do before and after a peel?
Avoid excessive sun exposure and follow pre-care guidance, including pausing certain active skincare ingredients if instructed. After your peel, use gentle skincare and consistent broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect healing skin.
American Academy of Dermatology: Chemical peels

Overview of peel types, what they treat, and what to expect.

American Society for Dermatologic Surgery: Chemical peels

Explains benefits, common concerns treated, and safety considerations.

Mayo Clinic: Chemical peel overview

Medical overview, risks, and recovery considerations.

Cleveland Clinic: Chemical peels

Details types of peels and typical recovery timelines.