What Is a Chemical Peel and What Does It Do?
A chemical peel is a skin treatment that uses a medical-grade solution to loosen and lift away the outer layers of damaged skin. As those layers shed, fresher skin takes their place, usually with a smoother texture and a more even tone. Peels can treat fine lines, sun damage, dark spots, and acne scars. Strength matters: a light peel gives a gentle refresh with little downtime, while a deeper peel reaches more stubborn concerns and takes longer to heal.
Still Dealing With Dull Skin, Dark Spots, or Acne Marks?
You may already use a good cleanser, a vitamin C serum, and sunscreen, and your skin still looks uneven or tired. Dark spots and many acne marks sit in the upper layers of the skin, where products have a hard time reaching. A peel treats those layers directly, which is why it is a common next step when a skincare routine stops making a visible difference.
Chemical Peel Treatment at Highland Aesthetics
Dr. Dawn Nuckolls leads every treatment plan at Highland Aesthetics in Johnson City. She chooses the peel strength to match your skin type, your concerns, and the downtime that fits your schedule, and she aims for natural-looking improvement. If you see a dermatologist or another provider for a skin condition, she works alongside them. Your first visit is a free consultation, so you can ask questions and see a plan before you decide anything.
Chemical Peel Benefits
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Smoother Texture
Shedding the dulled outer layer leaves skin feeling softer and looking more refined.
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Fades Dark Spots and Hyperpigmentation
Sun spots and the marks left behind by past breakouts lighten as pigmented cells shed.
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Softens Acne Scars and Fine Lines
Light and medium peels smooth shallow acne scars and fine lines. Deeper scars may need a different treatment, and we will tell you so.
Light, Medium, and Deep Peels
Light peels
Light peels use ingredients such as glycolic or salicylic acid. Expect mild flaking for a few days, and a series of visits for the best result.
Medium peels with TCA
Medium peels use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to reach deeper pigment, sun damage, and fine lines. Redness and peeling last about a week or longer.
Deep peels
Deep peels reach furthest and have the longest recovery. They suit a small number of patients, and your consultation will show whether you are one of them.
Peel or microneedling?
Peels work on surface layers and pigment. Microneedling stimulates collagen to improve texture and scarring. Some patients benefit from both, spaced weeks apart.
What to Expect During Your Peel
- Free consultation. Dr. Nuckolls reviews your skin, goals, medications, and history, picks your peel, and gives you a price.
- Your appointment. Your skin is cleansed and the solution is applied. You may feel warmth or tingling that fades as the peel is removed or neutralized.
- Aftercare. Redness, tightness, and flaking are normal. Daily sunscreen is essential, and we carry Colorescience mineral sunscreen for it. Please do not pick at peeling skin.
Highland Aesthetics
3980 Bristol Hwy, inside reNovus Medical SpaJohnson City, TN
37601 View Staff & Treatments
Chemical Peel FAQs
The price depends on the peel type and strength. Dr. Nuckolls gives you an exact quote at your free consultation. Peels are cosmetic, and Highland Aesthetics does not bill insurance.
Light peels usually settle in 3 to 7 days of mild redness and flaking. Medium peels typically take 7 to 14 days. Deeper peels take longer, and you will get a timeline for your specific peel.
Light peels are often repeated every few weeks as a series. Medium peels are spaced several months apart. Dr. Nuckolls sets your schedule based on your skin and goals.
Results last longest when you protect your skin from the sun every day. New sun damage can bring dark spots back, so many patients schedule maintenance peels.
Peels are considered safe when a trained provider matches the peel to your skin type. Common effects are redness, tightness, and flaking. Less common risks include pigment changes and scarring, which is why we review your medications and history first.
Avoid tanning and sun exposure beforehand. Tell us if you use retinoids, get cold sores, are pregnant or nursing, or have taken isotretinoin (Accutane). Dr. Nuckolls gives specific instructions at your consultation.
Book Your Free Chemical Peel Consultation
Find out which peel fits your skin and your schedule.
Dr. Nuckolls will look at your skin, answer your questions, and explain your options and pricing before you decide anything. Call 423-996-9642 or book online.
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