Chemical Peels in Chattanooga – Types, Benefits & Recovery
Daily sun exposure, acne, and aging slowly chip away at your skin’s natural glow. Over time, fine lines and acne scars start to show, and your skin just doesn’t bounce back like it used to.
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to live with it. A chemical peel is a safe, medically backed way to refresh your skin and bring out the healthy layer beneath. This cosmetic treatment uses a chemical solution to gently remove the outer layer of skin and help new skin cells form.
At Premier Medical Aesthetics in Chattanooga, TN, our trained medical professionals perform every peel with precision, helping you achieve smoother texture, even tone, and a natural glow you can actually see.
If you’ve been searching for a treatment that can resurface your skin, reduce acne scars, and improve fine lines without surgery, this is it. Let’s talk about how a chemical peel procedure works and why it might be the solution you’ve been looking for.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a treatment used to improve the appearance of your skin by applying a carefully formulated chemical solution that removes damaged skin cells. Once the outer layers are exfoliated, new skin forms, leaving you with a smoother and more even complexion.
According to the Mayo Clinic, chemical peels are considered a cosmetic treatment and are used to treat conditions such as uneven pigmentation, acne, fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage. Peels vary in strength and depth, depending on your skin concerns:
Light chemical peels (superficial peels): Treat the outer layer of skin (epidermis). They improve mild discoloration and rough texture with little downtime.
Medium chemical peels: Penetrate the middle layer of skin using ingredients like trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or glycolic acid to treat acne scars, deeper wrinkles, and uneven tone.
Deep chemical peels: Involve stronger peeling agents like phenol, which target the deeper layers to correct advanced sun damage and deeper wrinkles.
Each type of chemical peel is tailored to your skin type and the results you want to achieve. At Premier, your provider will assess your skin before recommending the most appropriate peel.
The Science Behind Skin Renewal
Your skin constantly sheds and regenerates itself, but as you age, that process slows down. Dead skin cells pile up, pores get clogged, and your complexion loses its smoothness. Chemical peels help reset that natural renewal cycle.
A peel uses a chemical solution containing lactic acid, salicylic acid, or trichloroacetic acid to break down the bonds between old skin cells. This allows damaged skin to peel away while stimulating collagen production in the deeper layers. Over the following seven to 14 days, your skin will gradually reveal a brighter, firmer, and more youthful surface.
Professional-grade formulas, like those used at Premier Medical Aesthetics, penetrate safely and predictably. Compared to at-home peels, they deliver stronger and more even results with fewer side effects and complications.
Studies from the Cleveland Clinic and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) show that when performed by licensed providers, chemical peels are typically safe and effective for a wide range of skin conditions.
Types of Chemical Peels Offered at Premier Medical Aesthetics
To help you choose the right chemical peel for your skin goals, here’s a breakdown of the options we offer and what each one does.
VI Peel – $175
Our VI Peel is one of the most popular medium-depth chemical peels we offer. It contains a blend of salicylic acid, lactic acid, and trichloroacetic acid (TCA), combined with retinol to help boost cell turnover and stimulate collagen.
This peel is used to treat acne scars, fine lines, and uneven skin tone, helping your skin look smoother and more hydrated. It’s gentle enough for all skin types, making it ideal for both new and experienced peel patients.
We recommend prepping your skin for four to six weeks with a customized routine before your appointment. You can repeat this peel every four to six weeks for best results. Mild redness and peeling may occur between days three and seven, and by the second week, you’ll notice visibly renewed skin.
ZO Skin Health Three-Step Peel – $175
If your skin is showing signs of sun exposure, dullness, or mild aging, the ZO Three-Step Peel can help. This treatment combines TCA, salicylic acid, lactic acid, and retinol to deeply exfoliate and resurface your skin.
During the peel, you might feel a light burning or tingling sensation that lasts a few minutes. Redness typically lasts for two to three days, followed by peeling that continues for three to five days. Avoid heavy sweating, intense workouts, or direct sunlight for one to two weeks to protect your new skin.
For the best outcome, our providers often recommend a series of three treatments, spaced four to six weeks apart. Each session helps your skin rebuild collagen and even out your overall tone.
Mini Chemical Peel – $75
For anyone who wants a quick refresh before an event or simply to keep their glow, our Mini Chemical Peel is the go-to choice. It’s a light chemical peel that gently exfoliates without downtime.
This treatment smooths out rough texture, brightens dull areas, and helps maintain clear pores. Many of our Chattanooga clients schedule it monthly as part of their regular skincare routine. You’ll leave with soft, luminous skin that feels fresh immediately after treatment.
Benefits for Your Skin
Chemical peels are used to treat multiple skin concerns at once. Here’s how they can help you achieve your desired results:
Smoother texture: Removes the rough outer layer of skin for a soft, refined surface.
Acne and scar reduction: Clears clogged pores and reduces the appearance of old acne scars.
Fewer wrinkles and fine lines: Boosts collagen in the middle layer of skin, improving firmness.
Even tone and color: Fades sunspots, melasma, and uneven pigmentation caused by sun damage.
Improved absorption: After your peel, your skincare products penetrate deeper and work more effectively.
According to NCBI research, medium-depth peels using trichloroacetic acid or glycolic acid can significantly improve actinic keratoses, pigmentation, and overall texture when performed by experienced medical providers.
What to Expect During Your Peel Appointment
Every treatment starts with a consultation to evaluate your skin and medical history. Once we choose the appropriate chemical peel, we’ll clean your face thoroughly to remove any oil or residue.
During the peel, your provider will apply a chemical solution to the treatment area. You might feel light tingling, warmth, or tightness. This sensation usually lasts for a few minutes. The peel solution is then neutralized and removed.
A facial peel typically takes around 30–45 minutes. You’ll notice that your skin feels tight and may look slightly red right after, similar to a mild sunburn. The real results appear in the next week as your skin begins to peel and reveal its healthy new layer.
Chemical Peel Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery time depends on the type of peel you receive. Light peels heal within a few days, while medium peels may take seven to 14 days. Deep peels, which are less common, can require two weeks or more.
Do’s and Don’ts After a Peel
Do use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
Do wear sunscreen daily, as your skin will be more sensitive to sun exposure.
Don’t pick or pull any flaking skin—it can cause irritation or scarring.
Don’t exercise or sweat heavily for at least three days after a medium-depth peel.
If you follow your provider’s aftercare plan, you’ll heal smoothly and see brighter, more balanced skin within one to two weeks.
Are Chemical Peels Safe for All Skin Types?
Yes, chemical peels are typically safe for most skin types when performed by licensed medical professionals. At Premier Medical Aesthetics, we customize each peel according to your skin tone using the Fitzpatrick scale. This helps us select the right formula and depth to avoid unwanted side effects.
People with darker complexions may be better candidates for lighter or superficial peels, as deeper peels can occasionally cause uneven pigmentation. We do not recommend peels for patients who are pregnant, have active infections, or are taking certain acne medications like isotretinoin.
Your safety always comes first, and that’s why every treatment is medically supervised from start to finish.
Chemical Peels vs Other Cosmetic Treatments
| Treatment Type | What It Does | Downtime | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Peel | Removes dead skin and smooths texture | 0–7 days | Acne scars, uneven tone |
| Microneedling | Boosts collagen through micro-injuries | 2–5 days | Fine lines, scarring |
| Laser Resurfacing | Targets deep wrinkles and sun damage | 5–10 days | Advanced photoaging |
| Facials | Hydrates and refreshes the surface | None | Regular maintenance |
Each treatment offers unique benefits. Your provider may recommend combining them for faster results or alternating between them for maintenance.
Why Choose Premier Medical Aesthetics in Chattanooga
Premier Medical Aesthetics was founded by a medical professional with years of experience in emergency and aesthetic medicine. The clinic’s mission is simple: to help you feel confident in your skin again.
We use medical-grade peeling agents and evidence-based protocols to deliver safe, predictable results. Every patient receives a customized plan designed for their skin type, goals, and comfort level.
At our Chattanooga med spa, you’re never just a number; you’re a person with unique goals. Our team takes pride in offering professional care that feels personal, honest, and empowering.
FAQs About Chemical Peels
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Medium peels often last for several months if you care for your skin properly and use sunscreen daily. Regular maintenance every few months keeps your skin looking its best.
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Yes, light flaking or peeling usually begins around day three and can last up to a week. It’s completely normal and part of the healing process.
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You can usually wear makeup after 48–72 hours, once redness and flaking have reduced. Always check with your provider before applying anything to freshly peeled skin.
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Most people notice brighter, smoother skin within one week. Collagen rebuilding continues for several weeks afterward, improving tone and firmness.
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Minor redness, tightness, and temporary peeling are normal. Serious side effects are rare when the peel is performed by qualified professionals.
Conclusion: Refresh, Renew, and Reveal Your Best Skin
Your skin deserves a reset. A chemical peel gives it just that; a fresh start. Whether you’re dealing with acne scars, fine lines, or uneven tone, this cosmetic procedure can help your skin renew itself naturally.
At Premier Medical Aesthetics in Chattanooga, TN, we combine medical expertise with personalized care so you can achieve real, visible results.
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward brighter, healthier skin that feels as good as it looks.
