Chemical peels are one of the oldest, best-studied, and most cost-effective treatments in dermatology. The "burns and downtime" image you may have seen on YouTube is outdated — modern medical-grade peels are gentle, controlled, and safe for Indian skin when chosen correctly. This page explains which peel does what, who it is for, and what to expect.
Match the peel to the concern
Glycolic acid peel (30%)
The classic AHA. Best for dull, uneven skin tone, fine lines and superficial pigmentation. Mild tingling, minimal downtime. Suits most skin types but can be too aggressive for very sensitive or darker skin at higher strengths.
Salicylic acid peel (20%)
Lipid-soluble — penetrates oil and into pores. Best for oily, acne-prone skin, blackheads, comedones. The peel of choice for active acne treatment. Anti-inflammatory bonus.
Mandelic acid peel
Larger molecule, penetrates slower. Best for Indian skin, sensitive skin, and active acne. Lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation than glycolic. Our default for first-time darker-skin patients.
Lactic acid peel
Hydrating + brightening. Best for dry, sensitive skin, mild pigmentation, dullness. Often used as an introductory peel before stepping up to glycolic.
Jessner solution peel
Combination peel (resorcinol + salicylic + lactic). Medium depth. Best for sun damage, photoageing, deeper pigmentation, melasma. Visible peeling for 4 to 5 days.
TCA peel (15–20%)
Medium depth. Best for melasma, advanced photoageing, deep pigmentation. Strongest peel we use for routine practice; visible peeling for 5 to 7 days. We use 25–30% TCA only for very specific spot treatments (TCA CROSS for ice-pick scars).
What a peel session looks like
Skin prep 5 min
We cleanse and degrease the skin to ensure even penetration. Your eyes and lips are protected with petrolatum.
Peel application 2-10 min
The peel is applied in measured layers using a specific brush technique. We watch for endpoint (frosting for TCA, sheen for AHA) before neutralising. You may feel mild tingling or warmth.
Neutralisation + soothe 5 min
The peel is neutralised. We apply a calming serum and broad-spectrum sunblock before you leave.
Aftercare instructions 5 min
Written aftercare card. We schedule your next session and any follow-up peels. Light peels are followed up at 4 weeks; medium peels at 4 to 6 weeks.
