Chemical Peels 101: Which Peel Is Right for Your Skin?
February 10, 2026·4 min read

Chemical Peels 101: Which Peel Is Right for Your Skin?

Alina Godz — Founder of Facials Bar

Alina Godz

Founder & Licensed Esthetician at Facials Bar · La Jolla, CA · 2,000+ facials performed

Chemical peels are one of the most effective professional treatments for improving skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. But with so many options available, choosing the right peel can feel overwhelming. At Facials Bar in La Jolla, we offer four specialized chemical peels, each designed for specific skin concerns. Here's your complete guide to finding the perfect peel.

What Is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a treatment that uses carefully formulated acids to exfoliate the outer layers of skin, revealing fresher, healthier skin beneath. Professional peels go beyond what any at-home product can achieve, targeting specific concerns with precise concentrations and combinations of active ingredients.

All of our chemical peels are 30-minute treatments priced at $150, making them accessible and easy to fit into your schedule.

Acne Peel: Clear & Bright

Best for: Oily skin, acne-prone skin, clogged pores

Our Acne Peel combines 14% Lactic Acid with 14% Salicylic Acid — a powerful duo that targets the two main causes of acne: clogged pores and excess oil production. Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, meaning it can penetrate deep into pores to dissolve the buildup that causes blackheads and breakouts. Lactic acid gently exfoliates the surface while providing hydration.

The formula also includes Kojic Acid and Citric Acid, which work to brighten the skin and fade post-acne marks. This peel is an excellent complement to our Face Reality acne program or as a standalone treatment for mild to moderate acne.

What to expect: Mild tingling during application. Skin may appear slightly pink for a few hours. Light flaking possible for 2-3 days. Noticeable improvement in clarity and brightness within one week.

Pigment Peel: Even Tone

Best for: Sun damage, melasma, hyperpigmentation, dark spots

If uneven skin tone is your primary concern, the Pigment Peel is your solution. This peel uses Multi-Acid Technology specifically formulated to target melanin production and break up existing pigmentation. It's effective against sun spots, age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

What makes this peel special is its safety profile — it's formulated to be effective on all skin tones, including darker complexions that are often at higher risk for pigmentation issues with other peel formulations.

What to expect: Moderate tingling. Possible light to medium peeling for 3-5 days. Visible reduction in dark spots after one treatment, with optimal results after a series of 3-4 peels spaced 4 weeks apart.

Sensi Peel: Gentle Care

Best for: Sensitive skin, rosacea, first-time peel clients, reactive skin

Not all chemical peels need to be aggressive to be effective. Our Sensi Peel combines 12% Lactic Acid with 6% TCA (trichloroacetic acid) at concentrations specifically designed for sensitive and reactive skin types.

This peel calms inflammation, strengthens the skin barrier, and provides gentle exfoliation without causing irritation or excessive peeling. It's the perfect introduction to chemical peels for clients who are nervous about their first treatment, and it's an excellent option for those with rosacea or easily irritated skin.

What to expect: Minimal tingling. Little to no visible peeling. Skin feels calmer, smoother, and more hydrated immediately. Best results with monthly treatments.

Ultra Peel: Advanced Renewal

Best for: Aging skin, fine lines, sun damage, advanced skin concerns

Our most intensive peel, the Ultra Peel combines 10% TCA with 24% Lactic Acid for comprehensive skin renewal. This higher concentration of TCA provides deeper exfoliation, stimulating collagen production and cellular turnover at a level that lighter peels can't match.

The Ultra Peel is ideal for clients who have experience with chemical peels and are looking for more dramatic results. It effectively reduces fine lines, smooths rough texture, fades sun damage, and gives skin a more youthful, luminous quality.

What to expect: Noticeable tingling to mild stinging during application. Medium peeling for 5-7 days. Significant improvement in skin texture, tone, and firmness. Recommended as a series of 3-6 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart.

Which Peel Should You Choose?

Here's a quick decision guide:

Breakouts and oily skin? Start with the Acne Peel. → Dark spots and uneven tone? The Pigment Peel is your best bet. → Sensitive or reactive skin? Go with the Sensi Peel. → Fine lines and aging concerns? The Ultra Peel delivers the most dramatic results.

Not sure which one is right for you? No problem. During your appointment, your esthetician will analyze your skin and recommend the most appropriate peel. We can also combine peels with other treatments like our HydroDiamond Facials for enhanced results.

Book Your Chemical Peel

Ready to reveal your best skin? Book a chemical peel at Facials Bar in La Jolla. All peels are $150 and take just 30 minutes. Visit facials.bar to schedule your appointment.

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