If you’ve been dealing with stubborn acne scars, dark spots, or sun damage from Florida’s intense UV rays, you’re not alone. Living in North Miami means year-round sunshine, which is great until it isn’t. That persistent hyperpigmentation, those fine lines that seem to appear overnight, or the uneven skin tone that makeup can’t quite cover—these are some of the most common concerns we hear at Manhattan Laser Spa.
Chemical peels offer a proven solution for skin rejuvenation, but not all peels are created equal. At our state-licensed medical spa facility in North Miami, we combine medical expertise with personalized care to deliver real results. Whether you’re coming from Aventura, Miami Shores, or right here in Downtown North Miami, our licensed medical professionals will create a customized treatment plan that addresses your specific skin concerns.
A chemical peel is a controlled exfoliation treatment that uses medical-grade acids to remove damaged outer layers of skin. Think of it as hitting the reset button on your complexion. By triggering your skin’s natural wound healing response, chemical peels stimulate collagen production and accelerate cell turnover, revealing fresher, healthier skin underneath.
The science is straightforward. We apply a carefully selected acid solution to your skin, which breaks down the bonds between dead skin cells. As these damaged layers shed over the following days, your body responds by producing new collagen and elastin. The result? Smoother texture, more even tone, and a noticeable reduction in various skin concerns.
The key difference between what we offer at Manhattan Laser Spa and over-the-counter products is strength and precision. Our medical-grade formulations contain higher concentrations of active ingredients like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and trichloroacetic acid (TCA). Under the oversight of our medical director and administered by licensed aestheticians, these professional-strength peels deliver dramatic improvements that home treatments simply can’t match.
Types of Chemical Peels We OfferNot sure which peel is right for you? Here’s the thing—your skin is unique, and cookie-cutter approaches don’t work. During your free consultation, we’ll perform a thorough skin analysis and assess your Fitzpatrick skin type to determine the safest, most effective treatment protocol.
Superficial Peels work on the outermost layer of skin and are perfect if you’re new to chemical peels or have sensitive skin. These lighter peels use alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid or lactic acid to gently exfoliate and brighten. You’ll see a subtle glow with minimal downtime—think of it as a reset for dull, tired-looking skin. Most people return to their normal activities the same day.
Glycolic Acid Peels are our most popular superficial option. Derived from sugar cane, glycolic acid has the smallest molecular size of all AHAs, which means it penetrates effectively to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines. It’s excellent for addressing photoaging caused by Miami’s strong sun exposure.
Salicylic Acid Peels are a game-changer for acne-prone skin. As a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so it penetrates deep into pores to clear out debris and reduce inflammation. If you’re dealing with persistent breakouts or enlarged pores, this is often our go-to recommendation.
Medium-Depth Peels penetrate into the middle layers of skin and deliver more dramatic results. We typically use TCA peels (trichloroacetic acid) at varying concentrations or combination formulas like Jessner’s Peel. These are ideal for treating moderate sun damage, deeper wrinkles, and more pronounced hyperpigmentation. Expect about a week of downtime as your skin goes through the peeling process.
VI Peel is a proprietary blend that combines TCA with retinoic acid, salicylic acid, phenol, and vitamin C. It’s incredibly versatile and works well on all skin types, including darker skin tones that might be at higher risk for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. We’ve seen excellent results with VI Peels for melasma treatment—a condition that’s particularly common in our sunny North Miami climate.
Deep Chemical Peels using phenol reach the deepest layers of skin and provide the most dramatic transformation. These are reserved for severe sun damage, deep wrinkles, and significant skin irregularities. Due to the intensity and longer recovery period, deep peels require careful evaluation and are performed less frequently.
Living in North Miami Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, or Bal Harbour means constant sun exposure. Even with diligent sunscreen use, cumulative UV damage adds up. Here’s what chemical peels can address:
Sun Damage and Photoaging show up as rough texture, age spots, and that leathery appearance that develops over years of Florida living. Chemical peels reverse this damage by promoting epidermal renewal and stimulating dermal rejuvenation deep within your skin.
Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots are among the most requested treatments at our North Miami location. Whether you’re dealing with post-acne marks, sun-induced discoloration, or hormonal melasma, the right peel can significantly lighten these areas and create a more uniform complexion.
Acne Scars don’t have to be permanent. While deep ice-pick scars may require combination therapy with laser treatments, superficial to moderate acne scarring responds beautifully to a progressive peel series. The controlled skin injury triggers your body’s healing response, gradually smoothing out uneven surfaces.
Fine Lines and Wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, and forehead soften with regular chemical peel treatments. By boosting collagen production, peels help restore some of the skin’s youthful elasticity and firmness.
Uneven Skin Tone and Rough Texture improve dramatically as the damaged outer layers shed. You’ll notice your skin feels smoother and looks more radiant—that’s the new, healthy skin coming through.
Enlarged Pores become less noticeable with regular exfoliation. Salicylic acid peels, in particular, help clear out congested pores and reduce their appearance over time.
What to Expect During Your Chemical Peel TreatmentFirst things first—we start with a comprehensive skin assessment. During your consultation at our Biscayne Boulevard Corridor location, we’ll discuss your concerns, review your medical history, and examine your skin under proper lighting. This isn’t a five-minute chat. We take the time to understand your goals and make sure chemical peels are the right choice for you.
Pre-Treatment Preparation is crucial for optimal results and safety. Depending on the peel depth, we may prescribe pre-peel primers or ask you to use specific medical-grade skincare products for two to four weeks before your appointment. This primes your skin and reduces the risk of complications, especially for deeper peels or patients with darker skin tones.
On treatment day, here’s what happens. We thoroughly cleanse your skin to remove all makeup, oil, and debris. A clean surface ensures the peel penetrates evenly. Next comes the peel application itself. You might feel a tingling or mild burning sensation—this is completely normal. We monitor your comfort throughout and can adjust as needed.
For most peels, the solution stays on your skin for a specific amount of time before we apply a neutralizing solution. Some peels are self-neutralizing and will be rinsed off with cool water instead. The entire process typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, though deeper peels may take longer.
Immediately after, your skin will likely appear red, similar to a mild sunburn. We’ll apply a soothing post-peel recovery cream and give you detailed aftercare instructions. Following these instructions isn’t optional—proper post-peel care determines your results and prevents complications.
People often ask how much downtime they’ll need. Honestly, it depends on the peel depth. Here’s what to expect:
Light peels might cause some redness and flaking for a few days. Most people schedule these around their regular routine without major disruption. You can wear makeup the next day if needed.
Medium peels involve more visible peeling that typically lasts five to seven days. Your skin will feel tight and look red initially, then start flaking noticeably around day three. This is when friends might ask if you have a sunburn. Plan to take it easy during this time.
Deep peels require serious downtime—usually two weeks or more. There’s significant swelling, crusting, and peeling. You’ll need to take time off work and avoid social commitments. But the tradeoff is dramatic, long-lasting results.
Regardless of peel type, sunscreen is non-negotiable. Your newly revealed skin is extremely vulnerable to UV damage. We recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, applied religiously. In sunny North Miami, Miami Gardens, and throughout Miami-Dade County, this protection is absolutely essential.
You have options when it comes to chemical peels in North Miami. Here’s why patients from Aventura to Ives Estates trust us with their skin.
Board-certified practitioners oversee every treatment. Our medical director ensures all protocols meet the highest safety standards, and our licensed aestheticians have extensive training in chemical peel administration. This medical oversight matters, especially for deeper peels or patients with complex skin concerns.
We use only FDA-approved treatments and medical-grade products. The quality of the peel solution directly impacts your results and safety. We don’t cut corners.
Customized treatment plans are our standard approach. Two people with acne scars might need completely different peel types based on their skin type, severity, and lifestyle. We evaluate each patient individually rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions.
Our sterile environment and rigorous safety protocols ensure you’re receiving care in a professional, state-licensed medical spa facility. We’re HIPAA compliant and maintain the same standards you’d expect from any medical practice.
We also believe in transparent pricing and thorough consultations. You’ll know exactly what to expect, including costs, before committing to treatment. No surprises, no pressure.
Combining Chemical Peels with Other TreatmentsSometimes chemical peels alone aren’t enough to achieve your goals. That’s okay. We often combine them with other services for enhanced results.
Microdermabrasion can complement lighter peels for an extra boost in exfoliation. Laser skin treatments work well for targeting specific concerns like broken capillaries or deeper pigmentation that peels can’t fully address. Medical-grade facials help maintain your results between peel treatments.
For acne treatment, we might recommend a series of salicylic acid peels combined with a customized home skincare regimen. For significant aging concerns, alternating between chemical peels and laser resurfacing often produces superior outcomes compared to either treatment alone.
This is where our combination therapy approach shines. During your consultation, we’ll create a comprehensive plan that addresses all your concerns, not just one.
This part’s tricky, so let’s be clear. Not all skin types respond the same way to chemical peels. Darker skin tones have a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation if peels aren’t performed correctly. That’s why the Fitzpatrick skin type assessment we do during your consultation is so important.
For patients with darker complexions, we typically recommend gentler formulations, lower concentrations, and longer prep periods with skin-conditioning products. The VI Peel and certain Jessner’s formulations work particularly well because they’re specifically designed to be safer for darker skin.
We take these considerations seriously because we’ve seen the complications that can happen when chemical peels are administered without proper expertise. Our licensed medical professionals have the training and experience to treat all skin types safely and effectively.
One peel can certainly provide noticeable improvement, but most skin concerns require a series. For best results with superficial peels, we usually recommend four to six treatments spaced three to four weeks apart. Think of it as a progressive peel series that gradually builds on each treatment.
Medium-depth peels might only need two to three sessions spaced several months apart. Deep peels are typically one-time treatments with long-lasting results, though some patients return years later for a refresh.
After completing your initial series, maintenance peels every few months help preserve your results and keep your skin looking its best. We’ll create a follow-up care schedule tailored to your needs and goals.
Preparing Your Skin and Maximizing ResultsWant to get the most from your chemical peel? Start preparing your skin several weeks in advance. We’ll provide specific medical-grade skincare products that prime your skin for treatment. This usually includes gentle cleansers, conditioning serums, and sometimes prescription retinoids.
Stop using certain products before your appointment. Retinols, exfoliating scrubs, and some acne medications can make your skin too sensitive for peeling. We’ll give you a complete list during your consultation.
After your peel, stick to the aftercare plan. Use only the recommended gentle cleansers and healing ointments. Don’t pick at peeling skin—I know it’s tempting, but picking can cause scarring and infection. Keep your skin moisturized and protected from the sun.
Avoid excessive heat for the first week. That means no hot yoga, saunas, or intense workouts that cause heavy sweating. Your skin needs time to heal without additional stress.
Most people feel a tingling or mild burning sensation during the treatment, but it’s usually tolerable. Superficial peels feel like a slight stinging that fades quickly. Medium-depth peels can be more uncomfortable, with a stronger burning feeling that lasts several minutes. We can use cooling fans and adjust application time to keep you comfortable. Deep peels may require sedation or anesthesia, which we’ll discuss during your consultation if that’s the recommended treatment. The discomfort is temporary, and most patients say it’s worth it for the results.
It depends on the peel depth and how well you maintain your skin afterward. Light peels provide a temporary glow that lasts a few weeks, which is why we recommend a series of treatments. Medium-depth peels can last several months to a year. Deep peels offer the longest results, often several years. But here’s the thing—your skin continues aging and getting sun exposure, so maintenance is important. A good skincare routine with medical-grade products, regular sunscreen use, and periodic maintenance peels will extend your results significantly.
Yes, actually—salicylic acid peels are excellent for active acne because they penetrate into pores and reduce inflammation. However, if you have severe cystic acne or active cold sores, we might need to treat those conditions first. Never get a peel if you have an active infection or open wounds in the treatment area. During your skin assessment, we’ll evaluate your current skin condition and determine the safest approach.
Not necessarily. Superficial peels might cause only light flaking that’s barely noticeable, especially after your skin gets used to regular treatments. You might just look a bit dry for a few days. Medium and deep peels definitely involve visible peeling—your skin will shed in sheets, particularly around your mouth and chin. The amount of visible peeling doesn’t always correlate with effectiveness, though. Some of the best results come from peels that don’t cause dramatic shedding.
For light peels, usually the next day once any initial redness subsides. For medium-depth peels, wait until your skin has finished peeling and any rawness has healed—typically about a week. Use only mineral-based makeup during recovery, as it’s less likely to irritate healing skin. Avoid heavy foundations that might clog pores or trap heat against your skin. We’ll recommend specific products that are safe to use during your recovery period.
The concentration and formulation make all the difference. Over-the-counter peels contain much lower acid concentrations—usually under 10 percent—while professional peels can go up to 70 percent or higher for certain formulations. Professional peels also use pharmaceutical-grade ingredients with precise pH levels, which affects both safety and results. Most importantly, licensed medical professionals monitor your skin’s response and can adjust treatment immediately if needed. At-home peels have their place for maintenance between professional treatments, but they won’t deliver the dramatic improvements that medical-grade peels provide.
Technically, yes, but you need to be extremely careful with sun protection. Your post-peel skin is vulnerable to UV damage, and South Florida’s intense sunshine increases the risk of hyperpigmentation. Many practitioners prefer to perform deeper peels during fall and winter when sun exposure is easier to manage. If you get a chemical peel during summer, you must commit to wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, reapplying every two hours, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours. We’ll discuss the timing based on your lifestyle and ability to follow these precautions.
Ready to address those skin concerns you’ve been living with? Manhattan Laser Spa serves patients throughout North Miami, including Biscayne Park, Ojus, Golden Glades, West Park, and surrounding Miami-Dade County areas. Our Greynolds Park and Oleta River State Park neighbors appreciate our convenient location and flexible scheduling.
We offer free consultations where you’ll meet with our team, discuss your specific concerns, and learn which type of chemical peel will work best for your skin. There’s no obligation, no pressure—just honest, expert advice from licensed medical professionals who genuinely care about your results.
Whether you’re dealing with acne scars, sun damage, melasma, or simply want to refresh your complexion, chemical peels can help. The question isn’t whether they work—they do. The question is finding the right provider who will perform them safely and effectively.
Call us today to schedule your consultation, or stop by our North Miami location. Let’s create a customized treatment plan that gets your skin where you want it to be.
