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Chemical Peels
in Birmingham, AL

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Day-to-day damage, dead skin, and congestion are all common causes of underlying skin issues such as hyperpigmentation, large pores, acne, and sun damage. Eventually, our skin needs a fresh start–and that’s what a chemical peel provides. By gently removing the top layer of skin, damaged, old skin cells make way for new, healthy skin. Chemical peels are a versatile treatment that can help patients of all ages, skin types, and skin tones, with little downtime and recovery.

Cohn Plastic Surgery offers a variety of chemical peel treatments in South Birmingham, Alabama, at its Vestavia Hills Medspa.

What Are the Benefits of Chemical Peels?

Chemical peels can address various skin concerns on the face by resurfacing the skin and prompting cell turnover. While chemical peels will vary in potency, active ingredients, and uses, some common skin issues that can be improved include:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Age spots
  • Sun damage
  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Large pores
  • Dull skin
  • Uneven tone
  • Acne and acne scarring
Up close of a woman's face

Am I a Candidate for Chemical Peels?

Chemical peels are a fantastic way to resurface and rejuvenate the skin and are appropriate for most skin types, tones, and conditions. Adults of all ages can benefit from exfoliating the skin through the use of a customized chemical peel treatment. However, you may not be a candidate if you:

  • Are pregnant or nursing
  • Frequently develop cold sores
  • Have a history of abnormal or severe skin scarring
  • Have a skin condition such as psoriasis

It is essential to find the right chemical peel for your skin, not only to see ideal results but to ensure safety. If you are interested in a gentle yet effective skin resurfacing treatment and would like to see if chemical peels are right for you, call Cohn Plastic Surgery today at (205) 590-9900 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced aestheticians.

How Do Chemical Peels Work?

Each chemical peel treatment will vary from patient to patient, but in most cases, your skin will be gently cleansed. The peel will be carefully applied to your face and left on for an appropriate amount of time so that the solution can work. Then, the peel will be removed, and your skin will be protected with a gentle moisturizer or calming mask.

At Cohn Plastic Surgery, we offer three different professional-grade chemical peels to best serve the unique needs of our skincare patients. Our chemical peels are ideal for different skin concerns and goals. During your skin consultation, our experienced aestheticians will evaluate your skin to help you choose the best option for you.

ZO® 3-Step Peel™

This chemical peel contains a blend of salicylic, lactic, and trichloracetic acid (TCA) in combination with retinol, to encourage deep exfoliation and cell turnover. This peel is ideal for anti-aging results, and offers a moderate level of skin sloughing.

PCA Peel® with hydroquinone

This peel promotes even skin tone and acne-clearing properties. The PCA Peel® with hydroquinone contains lactic, salicylic, koji, and citric acids and is ideal for dry, oily, combination, and normal skin types.

PCA Sensi Peel®

Formulated with sensitive skin in mind, the PCA Sensi Peel® strengthens and brightens the skin while treating hyperpigmentation and sun damage. This formula also provides anti-inflammatory, anti-acne, and antibacterial properties to help calm the skin and reduce inflammation.

What Is Recovery Like After Chemical Peels?

Recovery and downtime will vary depending on the type of chemical peel, its active ingredients, and how your skin reacts to the peel. In most cases, patients will be able to return to normal activities immediately after treatment.

You will be advised to avoid sun exposure following your treatment for about two weeks. You may also experience some peeling and flaking on your face, as the peels usually work by removing the top layer of skin. Be sure to keep your skin protected with a good moisturizer and SPF, and do not pick or pull at your skin.

Your aesthetician will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your skin, including when you can safely wear makeup and resume your normal skincare routine.

How Long Do Chemical Peel Results Last?

Most chemical peels work by removing one or more layers of skin in order to reveal youthful, undamaged skin underneath. Once the healing process has finished, your skin will be rejuvenated, glowing, and plump.

The number of peels necessary for full results will vary depending on your goals and skin type. Patients with mild skin concerns may only need to maintain their results every few months or so.

Chemical Peels FAQ


How much do chemical peels cost in Birmingham, AL?


The cost of chemical peels in Birmingham, AL, will depend on the type of peel used and the number of recommended treatments. One of our aestheticians will be happy to provide you with an accurate cost estimate once we have created a custom treatment plan for you.

Do chemical peels hurt?


Chemical peels work by breaking down the top (or deeper) layer of skin to reveal new, fresh skin underneath. The level of discomfort that you can expect really depends on the type of peel and the depth that the formula reaches. Peels are usually categorized as light, medium, and deep. The lighter the peel, the more comfortable the process is.

Our peels are either light or medium, and our providers will be happy to discuss the intensity of discomfort and your options for topical anesthetics.

Are there any side effects with chemical peels?


Chemical peels are considered safe and effective treatments for surface-level skin concerns. However, some risk, while rare, is possible. This includes:

  • Burning sensations
  • Uneven pigmentation and scarring

Darker skin tones may be susceptible to hyperpigmentation after a chemical peel, so be sure to discuss your options with your chemical peel professional during your consultation.

Chemical Peels at Cohn Plastic Surgery’s Medspa in Birmingham

Cohn Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, AL, offers a wide range of non-surgical skin resurfacing and rejuvenating services for our patients, including chemical peels.

If you’d like to see how chemical peels can help revive a youthful glow and support a more even skin texture, call us today at (205) 590-9900 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation.

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