Medium-Depth Chemical Peel

A medical-grade peel for acne scarring.

Sequential Jessner or CO2 followed by TCA to renew the skin and remodel collagen for shallow rolling and boxcar scars, texture, and discoloration.

What is a medium-depth peel?

A medium-depth peel involves complete destruction of the epidermis with penetration into and destruction of the upper layers of the dermis. Medium-depth peels require the sequential use of either Jessner solution or frozen CO2 followed by 20% to 35% trichloroacetic acid (TCA). This type of peel is designed to improve acne scarring, uneven skin texture, and discoloration by stimulating controlled skin renewal and collagen remodeling.

Medium-depth peels for acne scars across metro Detroit

Dr. Singer treats acne scars at his Bingham Farms office, convenient to patients throughout Oakland County and metro Detroit. The right plan depends on your scar type and goals, so every treatment starts with an in-person assessment.
Frequently asked questions

This peel is most effective for shallow to moderate rolling scars, shallow boxcar scars, and post-acne discoloration. Deep ice-pick scars require alternative treatments such as TCA CROSS or punch excision.

Yes. This is a very effective one-two punch to address all acne scar types in the same session.

Jessner solution or CO2 primes and prepares the skin for the deeper wounding agent. TCA is then applied to create a controlled deeper injury into the upper layers of the dermis.

Strict sun avoidance for 1 month before and 1 month after, a proper skin care routine including tretinoin and/or glycolic acid, starting Valtrex 1 day prior and continuing for 1 week afterward, and avoiding smoking.

You will feel burning or stinging during application. The stinging typically lasts about 3 minutes but can be quite intense. The entire procedure usually lasts 30 minutes, and visible frosting and peeling for about a week are expected.Yes. It can be combined with topical retinoids, oral antibiotics, salicylic acid peels, and even Accutane, and it can help reduce flares when starting Accutane.

Expect 7 to 10 days of visible peeling and healing, followed by several weeks of pinkness. Strict sun avoidance and post-care are critical, and most people stay inside for the first week afterward.

Risks include prolonged redness, pigment changes, infection, delayed healing, and scarring (rare). These risks increase if aftercare instructions are not followed.

Schedule an acne consultation

Craig Singer MD Dermatology is located at 31000 Telegraph Rd., Suite 260, Bingham Farms, MI 48025. Call (248) 792-3785 to schedule a consultation.

Summary

This is a deeper, medical-grade peel, not a superficial peel offered by med spas and aestheticians. Advanced training and experience are necessary to perform it safely. Proper patient selection, downtime, and aftercare are essential for safe and effective results.

Patient testimonials

4.9

Based on Google reviews

HOUR Detroit Top Doc

Recognized dermatologist

Dr. Craig Singer, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Acne Center of Michigan

About Craig Singer MD Dermatology

Located in Bingham Farms, Acne Center Of Michigan was founded by Dr. Craig Singer, a board-certified dermatologist.

We specialize in the treatment of acne and acne scarring, offering numerous therapeutic options tailored to each patient’s needs.

Dr. Singer experienced significant acne when he was in college and has personal experience with his teenage children’s acne as well. He has helped thousands of patients look their best.

Acne Center of Michigan offers the most advanced acne treatments, drawing from both traditional and alternative approaches. Dermatologists across the region refer their most complex acne-scar cases to Dr. Singer, and patients travel from across Michigan, neighboring states, and Canada for his care.

HOUR Detroit Magazine Top Docs award

Board-Certified

Dermatologist

Thousands of patients

Helped look their best

American Board of Dermatology
American Board of Physician Specialties
University of Pennsylvania
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
The Skin Cancer Foundation
Society for Pediatric Dermatology
American Society for Dermatologic Surgery