What Sets Us Apart
▷ Dr. Prischmann and her team have performed thousands of chemical peels
▷ All providers have advanced and specialized training on the safe application of chemical peels
▷ Dr. Prischmann and her team have personally curated the highest quality chemical peels for many different skin concerns
“Tried and True”
Chemical peels have been used for thousands of years to rejuvenate skin and will be for thousands of years to come. As our understanding of the exact ways that chemical solutions enhance skin care and beauty has deepened, so has the safety of these cosmetic procedures. We are now able to use dozens of ingredients – such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), and Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) – in different strengths and combinations to create customized plans for enhancing skin tone, skin texture, and pigmentation.
The secret to using chemical peels successfully is to customize individual treatment plans and be consistent over time.
Our Minneapolis facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Jess Prischmann, works in close collaboration with our experienced team to offer you the best treatment for your needs.
Before
After
Common Chemical Peel Myths
Myth #1 : All chemical peels cause visible peeling and downtime
This is the most common misconception around chemical peels. Understandable, because “peel” is in the term “chemical peel.” But the reality is that there are many types of chemical peels, ranging in strength, depth, and intensity. We can often make long term changes in skin cells and behavior by using superficial peels that cause no downtime. We can also use chemical peels to make the skin appear immediately radiant, which is useful for patients that cannot have downtime due to peeling. That being said, some of the peels we offer create visible peeling and our team will educate you about what to expect, including possible side effects like dryness or mild irritation, if this is the case.
Myth #2: Chemical peels are painful
Most of the chemical peels we perform create a mild tingling sensation. Others cause a prickly heat that can be uncomfortable. We do not perform peels that can be uncomfortable without educating patients about this prior to the treatment.
Myth #3 Patients have to know which chemical peel they are looking for
Chemical peels are extremely customizable. Using chemical peels for maintaining beautiful skin often requires regular appointments. Because of this, our team gets to know your skin and can confidently make day-of recommendations for peels. In other words, we treat skin as it presents to us that day. We consider many factors, including skin type, skin color, and current skin conditions, such as rosacea, melasma, or acne scars.
Myth #4: Lasers are better than chemical peels
This is completely untrue. Both offer advantages and disadvantages. Dr. Prischmann and her team have performed thousands of lasers and chemical peels. Based on our experience, we can advise you on which modality will be most likely to help you achieve your goals.
Often, our patients combine lasers, peels, and Broad Band Light treatments for optimal skin radiance and health.
Benefits of Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can provide a range of aesthetic and therapeutic benefits when customized to your skin type and goals. With regular treatments, patients often experience:
- Smoother skin texture and refined pores
- More even skin tone and reduction in hyperpigmentation
- Softening of fine lines and superficial wrinkles
- Reduction in acne breakouts and clogged pores
- Enhanced absorption of skincare products
- A radiant, refreshed complexion with minimal downtime
The Chemical Peel Experience
Preparing for Your Chemical Peel
The first step towards a chemical peel at our office is a consultation and exam. Dr. Prischmann and her team will review your goals, past experiences, and relevant medical history. We will examine your skin closely. Please let us know if any of the following applies to you:
- Allergies, including chemicals, medications, and foods. Many chemical peels are derived from naturally occurring fruits and foods
- Previous skin reactions to skin care products or procedures
- Skin conditions, particularly those that can impact skin healing
- History of cold sores or herpes (shingles) on the face or neck— an antiviral medication may be prescribed in advance to reduce the risk of reactivation
- History of Accutane or oral retinoid use
- History of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, or discoloration.
If a chemical peel is a good option for you, we will recommend it. If a different procedure will help you achieve your goals, we will recommend that procedure.
The Chemical Peel Procedure
There are three main categories of peels in our office: Level 1 (superficial), Level 2 (medium), and the VI Peel.
LEVEL 1: Superficial Chemical Peels
Superficial peels have little to no downtime and are great for exfoliation, brightening dull skin, and stimulating cell renewal in the epidermis (outermost layer of skin). They are generally considered safe and effective for almost all skin types. Light peels can be used for those with sensitive skin conditions, acne, rosacea, or mild hyperpigmentation. This type of chemical peel should be performed regularly, every four to six weeks. It is also an excellent prejuvenation procedure.
Most of our Level 1 peels start with a therapeutic mask to prime the skin for the peel. Then, a customized blend of acids—such as lactic acid, salicylic acid, or glycolic acid—is applied, one layer at a time. With each layer, an assessment is made to determine the endpoint. After the endpoint is reached, a custom blend of serums (hyaluronic acid, Vitamin B3, or redness relief) is applied. If some light exfoliation or peeling is desired, a retinol booster can be applied instead of the serums.
We are constantly evaluating superficial peels to improve the experience for our patients. We invite you to view our current offerings here.
Level 1 peels
- PCA Skin formulas can be individually layered and combined in each treatment to create a personalized peel
- PCA Skin No Peel Peel: 15% Lactic Acid, 10% Gluconolactone, 2% Salicylic Acid, Arginine AHA Complex, Centella Asiatica, Saccharide Isomerate
- PCA Skin Pigment Correct Peel: 16% Lactic Acid, 8% Mandelic Acid, 4% Pyruvic Acid, 1% Tranexamic Acid, Silymarin
- PCA Skin Bright & Even Peel: 20% Mandelic Acid, 10% L-Lactic, Citrus Lemon Peel Extract, Silymarin, Emblica
- PCA Skin Acne Peel: 14% lactic acid, 14% salicylic acid, Kojic acid, citric acid
- PCA Skin Acne Peel Plus: 14% lactic acid, 14% salicylic acid, 14% Resorcinol, Oleyl Adapalenate, Antioxidant blend
- PCA Sensi Peel: 12% Lactic Acid, 6% TCA, Alpha-lipoic Acid, Emblica, Silymarin
- Glytone TCA Redensifying Eye + Lip: 15% Lactic Acid, 3.75% TCA
- iS Clinical Innovative Fire and Ice Peel (Pregnancy Safe): Sugarcane extract (AHA), Japanese Green Tea, Vitamin A(Retinol), Niacinamide. (Vitamin A does not pass into bloodstream)
Level 2: Medium-Depth Chemical Peels
Level 2 Peels
Medium-depth peels have up to one week of downtime related to peeling and flaking and are excellent treatments for fine lines, sun damage, and improvement in skin texture. While we offer superficial peels for most skin types (including dry and sensitive), we only recommend medium-depth peels if the skin barrier appears healthy. In other words, we do not recommend peeling if the skin is already peeling or irritated. In those cases, we will perform treatments to restore a healthy epidermis first.
Medium-depth peels can be combined with lightening agents like hydroquinone or TCA (trichloroacetic acid) to significantly improve sun spots, freckles, and discoloration. They are also a part of a great strategy to prevent the signs of aging and maintain good skin tone and texture. They can be repeated at various intervals for continued optimal results.
We are constantly evaluating medium depth peels to improve the experience for our patients. We invite you to view our current offerings here.
- PCA Skin Ultra Peel: 24% Lactic Acid, 10% TCA, Alpha-lipoic Acid, Emblica, Silymarin
- Glytone TripleBRIGHT Renewal Peel: 20% TCA, 10% Lactic Acid, 0.5% Kojic Acid
- Glytone Hand Peel: 20% TCA, 10% Lactic Acid, 0.5% Kojic Acid
The Vitality Institute (VI) Peel Formulas 
VI peels are considered the most popular medium-depth chemical peels in the United States. VI peels consist of several formulations. In our experience, the best formulas target brown discoloration, melasma, and uneven skin tone. The VI Peel Precision Plus Formula is our top choice for those with melasma.
VI PEELS: Each VI Peel includes an educational app and a Take-Home Kit. Please note: VI Peel does not provide individual concentrations of peel ingredients
Precision Plus Formula For Skin Discoloration (TOP VI peel formula)
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA), Phenol, Retinoic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Lighten
Booster (.8 mL): TCA, Retinoic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Hydroquinone, Kojic Acid, Brighten
Booster (.8 mL): Salicylic Acid
Advanced Formula For Collagen Stimulation
TCA, Phenol, Salicylic Acid, Retinoic Acid, Ascorbic Acid
Deep Chemical Peels
Deep chemical peels have seven to ten days of downtime, followed by weeks of erythema (redness). They are extremely effective in reducing wrinkles, eliminating sun-damaged skin, and improving skin texture. While the entire recovery time can last for weeks, the results can last for years. Because of the depth of the peel—reaching the middle layer of the skin or dermis—deeper peels such as those made with phenol should only be performed by doctors specifically trained in their use.
Dr. Prischmann does not currently offer deep chemical peels in her practice. She does, however, perform full-field deep laser resurfacing for patients who are seeking deep resurfacing and are good candidates for this aggressive procedure.
Recovery After a Chemical Peel
Recovery depends on the strength and type of peel performed.
- Level 1 (Superficial) Peels: Minimal to no downtime; mild redness or flaking may occur for 1–3 days.
- Level 2 (Medium-Depth) Peels: Expect 5–7 days of visible peeling and skin renewal. Redness and dryness may persist slightly longer.
- VI Peels: Moderate peeling typically begins around day 3 and continues for 5–7 days. Skin should be protected from sun exposure and treated gently with sunscreen and moisturizer.
Our team will review post-care instructions and product recommendations based on your skin’s needs to support optimal healing and results.
FAQs About Chemical Peels
How do I know which peel is right for me?
You don’t need to know in advance. Our team will assess your skin and make expert recommendations based on what your skin needs that day.
Are chemical peels safe for all skin tones?
Yes—with the right peel selection and proper application, chemical peels can be safe and effective for all Fitzpatrick skin types, including darker skin tones.
Can chemical peels treat melasma or discoloration?
Yes. In particular, the VI Peel and the Glytone Triple Bright Renewal Peel are our top choices for melasma and pigmentation. We will determine the best formulation for your skin concerns during consultation.
How much do chemical peels cost?
Pricing depends on the type of peel and any additional treatments or boosters included. We’ll provide full cost details before your appointment so you can make an informed decision.
Is there downtime after a chemical peel?
Downtime varies by peel strength. Some peels involve no visible flaking, while others require a few days of peeling and recovery. We’ll prepare you with clear aftercare instructions and expectations.
Contact Us
If you would like more information on chemical peels, or if you would like to schedule a consultation to talk more about your skin care needs, please contact us today.