therapy
Korean Derma Peel (Jessner’s + TCA)
더마필
Customized acid blends at lower concentrations, more frequently. The Korean philosophy of peeling, refined.
20-30 min
Duration
Every 2-4 weeks (series of 4-6)
Frequency
Bearable
Comfort
3-5
Downtime
East vs West
Korean clinic
$60-120
Western equiv.
$150-300
What you get
Korean
Western
$90/session for a professional derma peel. That’s less than one bottle of prescription retinoid — and a series of these peels addresses scarring and pigmentation faster.
The Korean philosophy
The Korean approach to chemical peeling mirrors their overall skincare philosophy: gentle, consistent, cumulative. Rather than one aggressive peel that leaves you hiding indoors for a week, Korean derma peels use customized blends at lower concentrations applied in a series. The skin improves steadily without ever looking like it’s been “peeled.”
The ritual
Cleansing and degreasing
5 minA thorough cleanse followed by an acetone or alcohol-based degreaser removes all oils from the skin surface. Even application of the acid requires a perfectly clean, oil-free surface.
Acid blend application
8 minThe practitioner applies the customized Jessner’s + TCA blend in thin, controlled layers. The number of layers determines the depth of the peel. You’ll feel stinging that builds with each layer — moderate but manageable. A fan may be used to cool the skin between layers. The practitioner watches your skin’s reaction (frosting) to determine when to stop.
Neutralization
3 minThe acid is neutralized or allowed to self-neutralize depending on the formulation. The stinging sensation subsides within minutes. Cool compresses may be applied.
Calming treatment
8 minA centella and aloe-based calming serum is applied generously. A cooling mask may follow to reduce inflammation and comfort the skin.
Barrier repair + SPF
3 minA ceramide-rich barrier repair cream and mineral SPF are applied. Your skin is in a vulnerable state — protecting the barrier and blocking UV is critical for the next 5-7 days.
Your first time
The peel itself is quick — about 20-30 minutes total. The acid application stings, building to a moderate 3/5 intensity for a few minutes. It’s uncomfortable but brief. Afterward, your face looks slightly pink and feels tight. The real action happens over the next 3-5 days: your skin will flake and peel as the damaged layer sheds. Don’t pick at it — let it come off naturally. By day 5-7, the new skin underneath is noticeably smoother, brighter, and more even. Plan to stay low-key for 3-5 days while the peeling happens.
When to book
Book at least 7-10 days before any event to allow full peeling and recovery. For acne scarring, plan a series of 4-6 peels spaced 2-4 weeks apart. Fall and winter are ideal — less sun exposure during the healing phase. Stop retinol and all exfoliating acids 5-7 days before each session.
Best for
Not recommended for
East vs West
Western peels tend toward higher concentrations for dramatic one-time results with significant downtime. Korean derma peels use lower concentrations in a series, achieving comparable cumulative results with shorter, more manageable peeling phases. The Korean approach is also more customizable — the acid blend is adjusted at each session based on how your skin responded to the previous one.
Aftercare
SPF 50+ is absolutely mandatory for 2 weeks. No retinol, AHA, BHA, or vitamin C for 7 days. Do NOT pick or peel the flaking skin — let it shed naturally. Use ceramide moisturizer and gentle cleanser only. Avoid saunas, heavy sweating, and swimming for 5 days.
Keep the glow going
At-home products that extend and complement this treatment
Details