Chemical Peel in Toronto

Light peels (glycolic, salicylic) exfoliate the surface for a refresh — minimal downtime, often done in a series. Medium peels (TCA, Jessner's) reach the upper dermis for stronger results — expect 5–7 days of peeling. Deep peels (phenol, deeper TCA) penetrate further and can dramatically resurface skin — 1–2 weeks of recovery. Most people start light and step up as needed.

Light peels feel like a warm, tingling sensation for a few minutes. Medium peels burn and sting more, and providers use cool air or compresses to manage discomfort. Deep peels require sedation or strong numbing. Most people tolerate light and medium peels well.

Light peels often produce no visible peeling — just a brighter glow over a few days. Medium peels produce moderate flaking and peeling for 5–7 days that's manageable. Deep peels produce significant peeling over 1–2 weeks. Plan downtime accordingly.

Light peels (glycolic, salicylic, mandelic) are generally safe across skin tones. Medium and deeper peels require more care on medium-to-deep skin tones because of pigmentation risk — Jessner's and some TCA protocols are commonly used safely on darker skin by experienced providers. An experienced provider tailoring the peel to your skin is essential.

After a light peel, usually yes within a few hours. After a medium peel, plan to skip makeup for several days while skin is actively peeling. After a deep peel, you'll be in healing mode for 7–14 days before makeup makes sense.

Light peels are typically done in a series of 3–6 spaced 2–4 weeks apart. Medium peels often work well as a standalone or repeated every 6–12 months. Deep peels are usually a one-time procedure with results that can last years.