everything you need to know
What to expect VI Peel
A VI Peel takes about 30 minutes and is usually very comfortable with little to no stinging. The peel has a noticeable scent and leaves the skin slightly orange/tan for the rest of the day. You’ll go home with a full aftercare kit and step-by-step instructions.
What to expect ZO 3-Step Peel
This peel takes about 30 minutes and typically feels more active or “spicy,” with a warm, stinging sensation. Skin may appear slightly yellow afterward. The peel blends exfoliating acids and retinol, and aftercare is simple with one at-home step plus a hydrating cream.
What to expect Aura 360 Peel
Aura 360 is a clear peel that takes about 30 minutes and may cause mild tingling or sensitivity. You’ll receive a complete aftercare kit and instructions including cleanser, SPF, balm, and an enzyme mask.
What to expect ZO Stimulator Peel, "Lunchtime Peel"
This gentle, superficial peel takes 20–30 minutes with little to no discomfort or downtime. Skin looks instantly brighter, with only light flaking possible over the next day or two.
When does peeling start with medium-depth peels, and how long does it last?
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Peeling can begin as early as day 2, but usually starts around day 3–4, with visible shedding continuing for 5–7 days. Some light flaking may last up to day 10 depending on skin type and natural cell turnover.
When will I see results from a medium-depth chemical peel?
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Skin often looks brighter and smoother once the peeling phase is complete, with full results typically developing over 2–4 weeks as the skin fully renews.
When will I see results from a lunchtime peel?
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Results are often immediate. The skin looks refreshed, smoother, hydrated, and more radiant right away, with a healthy glow that typically lasts about a week.
How much will I peel from a chemical peel?
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Peeling varies depending on the type of peel and your skin’s natural turnover. Medium-depth peels (VI Peel, ZO® 3-Step Peel, Aura 360) can cause anything from light flaking to a more noticeable full-face peel over several days. With superficial peels like the ZO® Stimulator Peel, you may see only mild flaking or nothing at all while still achieving a brighter, refreshed complexion.
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Chemical peels are most commonly performed on the face, but can also be customized to treat other areas where pigmentation, texture, acne, or dullness are concerns, including:
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Face
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Neck
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Chest
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Back (for acne or pigmentation)
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Hands
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Medium-depth peels pricing (VI Peel · ZO® 3-Step Peel · Aura 360 Peel):
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$250–$350 depending on peel type and treatment area
Superficial peel pricing (ZO® Stimulator “Lunchtime” Peel):
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$75 (without dermaplane)
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$99 (with dermaplane)
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What to do before a chemical peel?:
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Avoid retinol, tretinoin, and other active skincare (AHAs/BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, exfoliating scrubs) for 5–7 days prior.
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Avoid waxing, threading, or depilatory creams on the treatment area for 1 week.
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Do not tan, use self-tanner, or have significant sun exposure for 2 weeks before treatment.
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Pause laser, microneedling, or other resurfacing treatments for 2–4 weeks prior.
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Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin, or use our cleansing area with face wash and washcloths if needed.
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Avoid picking, peeling, or irritating the skin leading up to your appointment.
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For medium-depth peels: plan for several days of visible peeling and adjust your schedule accordingly.
Always consult your primary care provider regarding medications, recent illness, and medical conditions before receiving any aesthetic treatment. Treatment is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
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What to do after a chemical peel?:
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Expect tightness, dryness, and visible peeling with medium-depth peels; superficial peels may cause only light flaking or none at all.
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Do not pick or peel flaking skin. Allow it to shed naturally to avoid irritation or pigmentation.
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Avoid sweating, strenuous exercise, saunas, and hot tubs for 72 hours, or until the skin fully calms.
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Avoid retinol, tretinoin, exfoliants, acids (AHAs/BHAs), benzoyl peroxide, and scrubs for 7–10 days or until peeling is complete.
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Keep the skin moisturized with the aftercare products provided to you, and avoid introducing new products during the peeling phase.
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Avoid direct sun exposure and apply mineral SPF daily; your skin will be more sun-sensitive while healing.
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Do not schedule laser, microneedling, waxing, or resurfacing treatments until your provider clears you.
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Makeup can typically be worn once peeling has subsided and the skin feels comfortable.
Post-care instructions may vary depending on your individual treatment. If you have any questions or experience anything unexpected, please reach out to your provider.
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what's next?
CHEMICAL PEELS
Vi peel, zo peels, aura 360
Chemical peels are advanced skin-resurfacing treatments designed to stimulate cell turnover, brighten the complexion, and improve overall skin clarity and smoothness. At Refresh Med Spa in Lincoln, NE, we offer a range of peels including the VI Peel, ZO® 3-Step Peel, and Aura 360 Peel for deeper correction, as well as the ZO® Stimulator Peel for gentle, no-downtime rejuvenation. Each peel is selected based on your skin concerns to target pigmentation, acne, fine lines, dullness, and uneven texture for a clearer, more radiant complexion.
Schedule a free consultation at Refresh Med Spa in Lincoln, NE to create a personalized treatment plan.
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How it works
Chemical peels use a blend of exfoliating acids and skin-renewing ingredients to dissolve dead skin cells, stimulate cell turnover, and boost collagen production. Medium-depth peels like the VI Peel, ZO® 3-Step Peel, and Aura 360 Peel penetrate deeper into the skin to target pigmentation, acne scarring, texture, and fine lines. Superficial peels like the ZO® Stimulator Peel gently brighten and smooth the skin with little to no downtime. As the skin renews, it becomes clearer, more even-toned, and visibly refreshed.
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