What Is a Medical-Grade Peel?

Eris Khalil • June 24, 2025

A medical-grade chemical peel is a professionally applied skincare treatment that uses powerful acids or enzyme solutions to exfoliate the skin, remove dead skin cells, and stimulate new cell turnover.

Unlike mild at-home peels, these are clinically formulated with higher concentrations of active ingredients, and must be administered by trained medical professionals (like our team at Chronos!).

Depending on the type and depth of the peel, results can range from a subtle glow-up to a dramatic improvement in:

  • Acne and acne scars
  • Hyperpigmentation and dark spots
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Sun damage and uneven tone
  • Rough or textured skin
  • Dullness and congestion

So… How Do Chemical Peels Work?

Chemical peels work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the outermost layer of your skin. Once those cells are removed, new, healthier skin is revealed underneath.

Depending on your skin concerns and goals, we offer peels in three main categories:

Superficial Peels

  • Light exfoliation, little to no downtime
  • Great for: Brightening, smoothing texture, first-timers
  • Best in a series for cumulative results

Medium-Depth Peels

  • Targets deeper pigmentation, scarring, and fine lines
  • Some peeling/downtime expected
  • Great for: Acne scars, sun damage, melasma

Advanced / Custom Medical Peels

  • Tailored to your specific skin needs
  • May combine acids like TCA, salicylic, glycolic, lactic, or retinoids
  • Performed under close guidance from our licensed medical estheticians

What Makes It Medical-Grade?

Medical-grade peels contain clinical-strength active ingredients like:

  • Salicylic acid – great for oily, acne-prone skin
  • Glycolic acid – ideal for exfoliation and anti-aging
  • Lactic acid – gentle brightening for dry or sensitive skin
  • TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid) – powerful for texture and pigment correction
  • Retinoic acid – boosts cellular turnover and fights wrinkles

These ingredients go deeper than standard spa peels, so results are stronger, longer-lasting, and more targeted.

What to Expect After Your Peel

Peeling isn’t always as dramatic as you might think. Some people experience light flaking for a few days, while others may have visible peeling that lasts a bit longer (especially with deeper peels).

No matter the level, your provider at Chronos will guide you through:

  • Proper post-peel skincare
  • What to avoid (like sun exposure and exfoliants)
  • When to return for your next session

Bonus: We also offer free skincare consultations to help you build the perfect regimen around your peel, because results don’t stop at the treatment room.

Why Choose Chronos for Medical Peels?

At Chronos Body Health & Wellness in Metairie, your skin is in expert hands. Our providers are trained in advanced skincare treatments and will customize your peel based on:

  • Your skin type and tone
  • Your short- and long-term skin goals
  • Any sensitivities, conditions, or current products you're using

Whether you're prepping for an event or starting your long-term skin journey, we’re here to help you peel confidently.

Ready to Reveal Healthy, New Skin?

Book your skincare consultation at Chronos and let us help you create a personalized treatment plan, complete with the right medical-grade peel for your skin.

Book now or download the Chronos app to schedule.

Written by Eris Khalil

Licensed Medical Esthetician at Chronos Body Health & Wellness

Focus: laser resurfacing, anti-aging, aesthetics

Updated: January 2026

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