What is a Deep Peel?


Doctor Answers (4)

Deep chemical peel



Chemical peels are generally classified as:

-superficial chemical peel

-medium chemical peel

-deep chemical peel

A deep chemical peel (such as a Gordon-Baker Phenol Peel) can produce dramatic results for patients with a lot of wrinkling. Although the results are often spectacular, there is a longer associated downtime and healing period. Usually a deep peel is done under general or sedation anesthesia. It should only be performed on patients with lighter skin tones to prevent uneven pigmentation.

If you decided to undergo a deep peel, ensure that your surgeon or dermatologist has a lot of experience with this type of peel

Best wishes,

Dr. Jamil Asaria

FACE Cosmetic Surgery

Toronto, Canada

Toronto Facial Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 46 reviews

Deep Peel


Daniel Shapiro, MD
Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 100 reviews

Deep Chemical Peel


A deep peel is a type of chemical peel that penetrates through several layers of skin. Usually a chemical called phenol is used for deep peels. The effect is basically a second degree burn. Of all the different types of chemical peels, deep peels carry the highest risk of side effects and complications.

Laser treatments, by comparison are much safer. The causes of sun damage and premature aging  issues are rooted in the dermal layer of the skin. Lasers can make corrections in this layer without the need to remove skin from the top surface.

The Spectra laser gives results that are comparable to a chemical peel. Also lasers in the Fraxel family can also rejuvenate skin by helping it develop new collagen to correct the effects of sun damage. Speak to a board certified dermatologist about which laser would be most effective for you.

Sanusi Umar, MD
Redondo Beach Dermatologic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 24 reviews

A deep peel is on that penetrates more than a half millimeter below the skin surface.


This is generally as noted Baker Gordon phenol, but it is possible to peel to this depth with Phenol 89%.  The strongest TCA is generally limited to 35% because 50% or more can cause unpredictable scaring.  TCA 35% is considered a very light medium depth peel (some would argue a deep superficial peel).  The deepest of laser resurfacing are only medium depth (approximately 350 microns)  so that the strongest of the chemical peels are much more powerful than any laser procedure.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD
Los Angeles Oculoplastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 18 reviews
