Essential Dermatology
220 N Main St #201
Natick, MA 01760
Phone: (508) 827-2615
Monday–Friday: 7:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Essential Dermatology
340 Maple Street #202
Marlborough, MA 01752
Phone: (508) 827-2615
Thursdays: 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Chemical peels are a long-standing skin rejuvenation technique at medical spas across the country. Chemical peels can help with a variety of skin concerns like acne scars, wrinkles, and sun-damaged skin. Chemical peels use different medical-grade chemicals on the skin to exfoliate and peel off the aged, damaged tissue. The new skin is much smoother than the old skin. There are three main types of chemical peels:
- Superficial Peel: A mild acid is used to penetrate the dermis and gently exfoliate it. This helps to improve mild skin discoloration and rough skin. It can help to refresh the look of the face, neck, chest, and hands.
- Medium Peel: Glycolic or trichloroacetic acid is applied to the skin. This penetrates the outer and middle layers of the skin and removes damaged skin cells. This is used to improve age spots, fine lines, wrinkles, freckles, and moderate skin discoloration. The medium peel can also be used to treat some precancerous skin growths.
- Deep Peel: This method uses trichloroacetic acid or phenol to deeply penetrate the middle layers of the skin. This helps to remove damaged skin cells. It can improve the look of lines, age spots, freckles, and scars. Patients will notice a dramatic improvement in the appearance of the skin.
At Essential Dermatology, Dr. Krathen offers these chemical peels to help his patients refresh their skin and remove aging signs.
How Do Chemical Peels Work?
When the acid is applied to the skin it interacts with proteins in the skin which causes exfoliation and peeling of the skin. Different acids cause exfoliation at different depths, which allows us the customization of a superficial, medium, and deep peel. Chemical peels can be used to treat many different skin conditions.

Meet Dr. Michael Krathen
Dr. Michael Krathen is a board-certified dermatologist with more than a decade of medical training and experience. A specialist in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, he uses expertise, collaboration, and compassion to help people of all ages discover their healthiest and most radiant skin.
Meet Dr. KrathenWhat Do Chemical Peels Treat?
- Aging Skin
- Acne Scars
- Age Spots
- Crow’s Feet
- Hyperpigmentation
- Melasma
- Scarring
- Sagging Skin
- Sun-Damaged Skin
- Wrinkles
Maintenance for Chemical Peels
It is important to take care of your skin following a chemical peel, to not only enhance results but to prevent any damage. Your skin will be extra sensitive following your chemical peel. Dr. Krathen will recommend products to use to keep your skin moisturized and hydrated. It is important to keep your skin away from harsh UV rays, so using a daily sunscreen is recommended.
Chemical Peels FAQ
Q: Are chemical peels good for your skin?
Yes, chemical peels can be good for your skin. They exfoliate the top layers of the skin, which can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne, and other skin imperfections. Chemical peels also stimulate collagen production to improve the texture and firmness of the skin.
Q: Can I combine peels with other medical spa treatments?
Chemical peels can be combined with BOTOX® and dermal fillers to enhance skin rejuvenation results. BOTOX injections relax the facial muscles that cause wrinkles, while dermal fillers restore volume to the face and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Combining these treatments with chemical peels can target different areas of concern and address multiple signs of aging at once.
Q: How long will my results last?
The longevity of your results will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of peel, the depth of the peel, and your skin type. Generally speaking, the deeper the peel, the longer the results tend to last. You can help prolong your results by following a good skincare regimen and protecting your skin from the sun.
Q: Will I need to get multiple chemical peels before I notice results?
Many people notice a difference in their skin tone and texture after their first chemical peel. However, the severity of your skin concerns and the type of peel performed determine whether you’ll see results with one treatment or several. Your dermatologist or skincare professional can provide you with a customized treatment plan for your individual needs and goals.
Q: What’s the best age to start this skincare treatment?
There is no specific age considered “best” for starting chemical peel treatments. Most people wait until their late 20s or early 30s before starting any anti-aging treatments since this is when the skin begins to show signs of aging.
Q: Are there any downsides?
While chemical peels can provide many benefits for the skin, some people may experience redness, peeling, and sensitivity after a peel. In rare cases, chemical peels can cause scarring or discoloration of the skin. Deeper peels may not be suitable for some skin types.
Schedule a Consultation
To get a completely refreshed face, come into Essential Dermatology for a chemical peel. Talk to Dr. Krathen about your skin concerns and desires so that he can create a personalized chemical peel for you. To get started, call our office at (508) 827-2615 or request a consultation by filling out our online form. To book an appointment, schedule your visit as a new patient using our online scheduler or as an existing patient using the Mass General Brigham Patient Gateway.
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