Chemical Peels

Choosing a depth

Superficial peels give you a two-to-three day glow with almost no interruption to your week. Medium-depth work goes after real pigment, congestion, and texture and comes with visible peeling for up to a week. I would rather run a series of well-tolerated peels than one aggressive treatment your skin has to recover from.

Pigment and melasma at altitude

Colorado's UV exposure is unforgiving and melasma is stubborn everywhere, but especially here. Peels are one part of the plan — the others are a pigment-inhibiting home routine and genuine daily sun protection. Treating without those is how pigment comes back darker.

Prep and aftercare

Some skin types need a few weeks of prep before a medium peel, and we pause retinoids beforehand. Afterward: no picking, gentle cleanser, generous moisturizer, and no direct sun or heavy sweating while you are shedding. I send written aftercare home with you and check in during the peeling window.

Building a series

Most corrective plans run three to six peels spaced three to four weeks apart, then a maintenance peel a few times a year. Progress is photographed each visit so you are judging your skin against evidence rather than memory.

Common questions

Will my whole face peel off?

Superficial peels usually cause light flaking around the mouth and nose. Medium peels shed more visibly for three to seven days. I will tell you honestly which one you are signing up for before we start.

Can I peel if I have darker skin?

Yes, with the right agent and depth. Aggressive peels on richly pigmented skin risk post-inflammatory pigment, so we go conservatively and prep properly.

Is it safe with active acne?

Often it helps, particularly salicylic-based peels on congested skin. Active cystic acne may need a medical plan first.

How soon before an event should I book?

Two to three weeks for a medium peel, and at least five days for a superficial one.