Which peel is right for you?
- First peel or sensitive skin: Cool Peel or a gentle PCA peel
- Acne and breakouts: PCA peels designed for acne and post-acne marks
- Acne scars, melasma and dark spots: VI Peel, often as a series of 2–3 peels about 5 weeks apart
- Rosacea or very sensitive skin: VI Peel Plus with Peptides
Paola grew up seeing her mother live with melasma, and pigmentation is one of the concerns she cares most about treating.
What to expect
- Consultation. Paola checks your skin type, history and medications and chooses the peel and strength
- Prep. Your skin is cleansed and prepped so the peel works evenly
- Peel. The solution is applied in layers. Most clients feel warmth or tingling for a few minutes
- Home care. You go home with instructions, and most peels include products for the days after
Before and after your peel
Before
- Avoid direct sun, tanning beds and self-tanner for two weeks before.
- Stop Retin-A and other photosensitizing products a week before.
- If you get cold sores, tell Paola. Antiviral medication from your doctor may be recommended.
- Stop waxing and harsh scrubs on the area for a week before.
After
- Depending on the peel, skin may flake or peel for several days. Let it shed on its own; don’t pick.
- Avoid hot showers, saunas, hot tubs and exercise for 24–48 hours.
- Wear sunscreen every day and stay out of tanning beds.
- Skip makeup until any redness settles.
- Don’t pick or scrub treated skin. Call the studio if anything concerns you.
Paola gives you specific instructions for your treatment. Follow those first.
Chemical Peels questions
How much is a chemical peel in Clark, NJ?
At Secrets of Beauty, PCA peels are $160, the Environ Cool Peel is $190 and VI Peel starts at $300, with Advance and peptide options from $340 to $365.
How long does peeling last after a VI Peel?
Peeling commonly lasts several days and depends on your skin and the peel strength. Plan your peel so the peeling days don’t fall on an important event.
How many peels will I need?
For acne scars and pigmentation, Paola often recommends a series of 2–3 peels spaced about 5 weeks apart. Lighter peels can be repeated more often.
Are chemical peels safe for darker skin tones?
Yes, when the right peel and strength are chosen. Paola selects peels suited to your skin type and checks your history at the consultation.
Reviewed November 2026 by Secrets of Beauty Skin & Body. Results vary; your plan is set at consultation.