Skin Concerns
Treats post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and shallow acne scarring, sun damage and age spots, melasma (with a careful progressive approach), fine lines and wrinkles, rough texture and enlarged pores, active acne and congestion, and dull or uneven skin tone. For deeper pitted scars or significant laxity, RF microneedling or laser resurfacing may be paired with peels for more complete correction.
Ideal Candidate
Chemical peels are appropriate for all Fitzpatrick skin types when properly formulated — your esthetician will select the right acid blend and depth for your skin. Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, on active herpes simplex outbreaks, on broken or compromised skin, while taking Accutane within the past 6 months, on recently waxed or sunburned skin, or if you have a known allergy to any peel ingredient. Discontinue retinoids and exfoliating acids at least 5–7 days before your appointment.
Treatable Areas
Face is the most common treatment area. Body peels are available for the back, chest, neck, décolleté, and arms — particularly effective for back acne, chest pigmentation, and rough texture in areas that don’t respond to topical products alone. Body peels are priced by coverage area: Small $350 (upper back or smaller area), Medium $400 (full back), Large $650 (full back plus additional area).
Controlled Exfoliation, Revealed Skin
Chemical peels use controlled acid solutions to dissolve the bonds between damaged outer skin cells, triggering the body’s natural exfoliation and cell turnover process. The acid blend, concentration, and contact time determine how deeply the peel works — from a light surface refresh to deep clinical resurfacing.
As the treated layers shed over the following days, newer skin with improved texture, tone, and clarity is revealed. Beneath the surface, the controlled injury also triggers a wound-healing response that stimulates new collagen synthesis, gradually firming and smoothing the dermis over the following weeks.
Whether your concern is acne scarring, uneven pigmentation, fine lines, or rough texture, each peel is formulated to your specific skin type, concern, and tolerance level. Your esthetician selects the right blend during your consultation and adjusts depth across sessions as your skin builds tolerance.
The Benefits
Controlled Exfoliation
Removes damaged surface cells and accelerates cell turnover, improving texture and clarity over successive treatments.
Adjustable Depth
Peels range from light surface treatments to deep clinical correction, allowing your provider to match the formulation to your specific concerns and tolerance.
Tone Correction
Reduces dark spots, fine lines, and uneven pigmentation. Most patients see measurable improvement in skin tone after a single session.
Concerns a Chemical Peel Addresses
If your concern is on this list, a peel is likely a strong fit. If it’s not, your esthetician will tell you and recommend a more appropriate treatment.
Acne Scars & PIH
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and shallow acne scars result from unresolved inflammation that disrupts melanin distribution and collagen structure. Chemical peels accelerate the removal of hyperpigmented surface cells while triggering collagen remodeling in the dermis below. For deeper, pitted acne scars that don’t respond to peels alone, alternating with SkinPen microneedling or Vivace RF Microneedling can address the structural component.
Sun Damage & Age Spots
Cumulative UV exposure causes melanin to cluster unevenly, producing sunspots, solar lentigines, and a mottled appearance. Medium-depth peels dissolve the superficial layers containing this excess pigment, revealing more even-toned skin beneath. For stubborn or deeper pigment deposits, combining a peel series with BBL Photofacial targets melanin from both the surface and the dermal level for more complete correction.
Melasma & Uneven Tone
Melasma is a hormonally driven pigmentation condition that produces symmetrical patches on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. It requires a careful, progressive approach — aggressive peels can worsen it. Lighter-depth peels with melanin-inhibiting acids gradually reduce pigment intensity without triggering a rebound response. Your provider may also recommend a medical-grade home care regimen with tyrosinase inhibitors to maintain results between sessions.
Fine Lines & Wrinkles
Fine lines form as collagen production slows and the epidermis thins with age. Medium and deep chemical peels stimulate a wound-healing response that triggers new collagen synthesis, gradually smoothing fine lines over a treatment series. For dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated muscle contraction (forehead, crow’s feet, frown lines), pairing a peel series with Botox or Dysport addresses both the structural and muscular components of aging.
Rough Texture & Pores
Enlarged pores, rough texture, and a gritty skin feel often result from accumulated dead cells, sebum buildup, and slowed cell turnover. Chemical peels dissolve the intercellular bonds holding this buildup in place, refining the skin surface and reducing the appearance of pores over successive sessions. Pairing with dermaplaning before the peel removes the dead skin barrier for more even acid penetration.
Active Acne & Congestion
Chemical peels with salicylic acid (BHA) penetrate into the pore lining to dissolve sebum plugs and reduce the bacterial load that drives breakouts. Regular light-to-medium peels help regulate oil production and prevent new comedones from forming. For patients managing active breakouts alongside other skin concerns, a HydraFacial between peel sessions can maintain clarity while the skin recovers.
Chemical Peels vs. Laser Resurfacing
Both treatments resurface the skin to improve texture, tone, and scarring. The key difference is in mechanism — chemical peels use acid solutions to dissolve surface layers, while laser resurfacing uses targeted light energy to vaporize or heat the skin at a controlled depth. Many patients benefit from both at different stages of their treatment plan.
Peels and lasers are often used together — peels for surface pigment and texture, lasers for deeper structural remodeling. Your provider can also recommend microneedling or Vivace RF Microneedling as an alternative resurfacing approach. The right combination depends on what you’re trying to correct and how much downtime fits your life.
What to Expect: Before, During & After
A chemical peel appointment takes 30–60 minutes depending on peel depth and whether dermaplaning is added. Here’s the process from prep through to peeling.
Consultation & Skin Analysis
Your esthetician evaluates your skin type, current concerns, product usage, and sun exposure history. Based on this, they recommend the appropriate peel depth (Level 1, 2, or 3) and set expectations for downtime and results. First-time patients get a more thorough assessment to confirm peel candidacy.
Cleansing & Prep
The treatment area is thoroughly cleansed and degreased to remove makeup, oil, and surface debris. This ensures the acid solution penetrates evenly across the skin. If dermaplaning was added, it’s performed at this stage to remove dead surface cells and vellus hair for more uniform peel contact.
Peel Application
The acid solution is applied in controlled layers. You may feel mild tingling, warmth, or temporary stinging — this is normal and indicates the acid is working. Your provider monitors your skin’s response throughout and adjusts the application time accordingly. Deeper peels may produce visible “frosting” as the acid neutralizes proteins in the skin.
Neutralization & Calming
The peel is neutralized (for certain formulations) or left to self-neutralize. A calming mask or serum is applied to soothe the skin, followed by mineral SPF. You leave with your aftercare kit and depth-specific instructions for the days ahead.
Peeling & Results
Light peels may produce mild flaking for 1–3 days. Medium and deep peels cause visible peeling over 3–7 days as damaged layers shed naturally. New skin beneath is smoother, more even in tone, and continues to improve over the following 2–4 weeks as collagen remodeling progresses. Do not pick — let the skin shed on its own timeline.
Post-Peel Aftercare
Do not pick, pull, or scratch peeling skin — let it shed naturally. Use mineral SPF 30+ daily for at least 2 weeks. Avoid retinoids, active acids, and exfoliants until peeling is complete. No makeup for 24 hours after deeper peels. Avoid saunas, steam rooms, and strenuous exercise for 48 hours. Keep skin hydrated with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer. Full guidance on our post-care instructions page.
Treatment Options
Four options depending on your depth of concern and treatment area. Your provider will recommend the right one during your consultation.
Level 1 Peel
A light-depth peel that removes surface buildup and improves texture with minimal to zero downtime. Suitable for first-time patients or maintenance between deeper treatments.
- 30 minute appointment
- Minimal to zero downtime
- Mild surface refresh
- Great for event prep
Level 2 Peel
A medium-depth peel that targets pigmentation, redness, and sun damage more aggressively. Expect a few days of visible peeling as the skin turns over.
- 45 minute appointment
- 3–5 days of peeling
- Pigment + texture correction
- Recommended in a series of 3–5
Level 3 Peel
Our deepest clinical peel, designed for advanced aging, severe pigmentation, and stubborn acne scarring. Involves several days of significant peeling and full skin renewal.
- 60 minute appointment
- 5–7+ days of significant peeling
- Most dramatic correction
- For experienced peel patients
Body Peel
Chemical peels for the back, chest, or arms. Targets body acne, pigmentation, and rough texture in areas that don’t respond to topical products alone.
- Small $350 — upper back or smaller area
- Medium $400 — full back
- Large $650 — full back plus add’l
- Confirmed at consultation
Multi-session packages
- ✓ Package of 3 — save 10% on a corrective series
- ✓ Package of 5 — save 15% for deeper treatment plans
- ✓ Add dermaplaning before any peel for more even acid penetration
Packages confirmed at checkout. Pair peels with maintenance facials between sessions to extend results.
Most patients see meaningful improvement after a single session. For pigmentation, acne scarring, or significant texture concerns, plan on a series of 3–5 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart for the most complete correction.
Who Performs This Treatment
Every chemical peel at ELLEMES is performed by a licensed esthetician who customizes the formulation to your skin.
How Often & Why
Chemical peels produce cumulative results — each session clears more damage and stimulates deeper collagen remodeling. Your provider will build a schedule based on your peel depth and skin’s tolerance.
A one-time Level 1 peel is effective for a surface refresh before a special event or as a standalone treatment for patients who want improved clarity and smoothness without committing to a full series. Minimal to zero downtime.
The recommended protocol for most patients treating pigmentation, acne scarring, or texture concerns. Each peel removes another layer of damage and triggers a new round of collagen synthesis. Sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart allow full skin turnover between visits.
After completing an initial series, lighter peels at regular intervals maintain results and prevent new pigment or texture concerns from accumulating. Frequency depends on your skin type, sun exposure, and home care regimen.
Between peel sessions, HydraFacial or a Deluxe Facial can maintain hydration and clarity. For deeper resurfacing, ask about combining peels with microneedling or MOXI laser.
Common Questions
What to know before booking a chemical peel at ELLEMES Medical Spa in Atlanta.
What does a chemical peel include?
How long does it take?
Do they hurt, and is there downtime?
How many sessions will I need?
Are chemical peels safe for all skin types?
How should I prepare?
Can I combine a peel with other treatments?
Real Patients, Real Results
Verified Google reviews from ELLEMES patients who chose us for chemical peels.
“If you’re looking for a new med spa, this is the place! I’ve had a lot of facials at various different med spas over the years, and this is the best place I’ve been. I went to Lauren for a series of chemical peels, and she’s amazing! She customizes your treatment to your skin’s needs, and I’ve truly never seen greater results.”
“ELLEMES is fantastic! I’ve had various services — chemical peel, microneedling, moxi, and a facial. All were incredible. The staff is so very nice and accommodating. Jaycee usually does my skincare treatments and she is so knowledgeable, gentle, and patient.”
“Jaycee is always amazing!! I’ve been coming to this medspa for a couple of years and have gotten chemical peels, facials, and laser hair removal. Their services are always the best!”
“My experience with med spa so far has been great. One for the consultation and one for a chemical peel. Jaycee is so kind and knowledgeable about everything I asked her. She gave me good advice on things I should be doing for me to take care of my skin better. Things I never knew. I’m confident I will feel better about my skin once all the procedures are complete.”
“Jaycee is absolutely amazing! I’ve been coming to her for hydrafacials and I always love the way my skin looks and feels afterwards. I just had my first chemical peel today and wow. A 10/10 experience. I cannot wait to see my results!”
“I have never been happier with my skin! The aestheticians at Ellemes have far exceeded my expectations. Recently I saw Jaycee for a chemical peel. She took the time to analyse my skin and listen to my history and chose a peel that would provide the best results.”
“Lauren and her team are amazing! Best esthetician in Atlanta hands down. My go to for hydrafacials, peels, PRP Microneedling, and she also has helped me define the absolute best skincare routine for self-maintenance. Love her!”
“I recently had a chemical peel with Lauren and her customer service and knowledge is second to none. She checked up on me every day to see how I was doing and to get a status update on the progress. Anytime I had a question she always made herself available and also had great advice for how to proceed. She really cares. You don’t find that a lot anymore.”
“Lauren was great & very attentive! She answered all of my questions and gives great advice. Aside from the medications I’ve taken with a medical dermatologist, I have had the chemical peel with Lauren and received so many compliments and it’s been 2 months later. Will be a repeated client!”
“I give Ellemes 5 stars as my experience was better than I could have ever asked for. I have used Lauren for several different types of treatments — laser hair removal, facials and chemical peels. I felt like a new person when I was there as I was treated with gentle hands and kindness. Lauren knows skin care and has a passion for it. Love this place and highly recommend.”
When You’re Ready
Schedule a consultation at our Sandy Springs clinic. Your esthetician will recommend the right peel depth based on your skin type, concerns, and downtime tolerance.
Book a Consultation →Or call (470) 222-6581