Jessner Peel: What You Should Know

Chemical peels have risen in popularity as resurfacing procedures in recent years, but their use as cosmetic treatments dates back to ancient Egypt.

Like other chemical peels, a Jessner peel involves applying an acidic solution to the skin to strip away surface layers and stimulate growth of fresher, younger-looking skin.

Developed over a century ago, the Jessner peel remains in use due to its ability to:

• diminish dark spots and age-related discoloration
• balance and even out skin tone
• lessen the visibility of scars
• soften fine lines and wrinkles
• address melasma (uneven pigmentation) and hyperpigmentation

Although many peels risk causing lasting pigment changes in darker skin, a recent small study reported that a modified Jessner solution can safely and effectively reduce melasma and pigmentation irregularities in darker complexions.

Research has also indicated it can be effective for treating acne scarring even when used as a superficial peel.

How does the Jessner peel work?

The Jessner peel functions by removing the upper layers of skin to expose smoother, more uniform skin underneath. The depth of penetration varies depending on whether you receive a superficial, medium, or deep peel.

Most commonly, the Jessner peel is performed as a medium peel, meaning it strips cells from the epidermis (top layer) and the upper dermis (upper portion of the middle layer). It can also be administered as a superficial peel, which heals more quickly but needs more frequent repetition to match the effects of a deeper treatment.

Standard Jessner solution is a blend of lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol in a 95% ethanol carrier. Because of concerns about the safety of resorcinol, some formulations omit it.

Jessner solution is also commonly combined with other peel formulas to boost their action against scarring and pigmentation issues.

At-home versus clinician-administered

You can perform a Jessner peel at home, but it requires the proper supplies and careful technique to be done safely.

Store-bought Jessner preparations are designed to be superficial. The advantage is lower cost compared with professional peels (which average $673 per peel) and a quicker recovery than deeper treatments. However, at-home peels are less effective at removing stubborn dark spots and reducing deeper scars compared with a dermatologist-administered medium peel, and they risk causing excessive irritation if misused.

Peels performed by a board-certified dermatologist are more likely to deliver significant, longer-lasting improvements with reduced risk. Medium peels like Jessner are best performed by a qualified dermatologist.

Individuals with darker skin tones should particularly seek an experienced dermatologist for any peel, including Jessner, to prevent permanent pigment changes and other adverse effects. When performed by a skilled clinician, Jessner peels are considered safe for a range of skin tones, including darker skin.

People with very sensitive or extremely fair skin should consult their physician before undergoing a Jessner peel, as it may be too strong for some complexions.

How to prepare for a Jessner peel

Before receiving an in-office Jessner peel, arrange a consultation with your dermatologist.

Medical and skin history

At the consultation, your physician will review your medical history and ask about medications and skin conditions to ensure there are no contraindications to a chemical peel like Jessner.

Pre-peel skincare regimen

Your provider may request that you follow a specific skin care routine for two to four weeks before the peel to minimize side effects and improve results.

This often includes using retinol or tretinoin (Retin-A) to thin the stratum corneum, boost cell turnover, and allow the peel to penetrate more effectively. Typically, retinoids are stopped several days before the peel to avoid excessive irritation during treatment.

What happens during the procedure

Chemical peels are usually performed in the dermatologist’s office. The provider will start by thoroughly cleansing your skin to remove oils and products.

Your eyes may be protected with tape, goggles, gauze, or ointment, and hair will be covered if the face is treated. For a medium peel you may have the option of taking an oral sedative or pain medication to increase comfort during the procedure.

The peel is applied using gauze, a brush, or cotton-tipped applicators. The treated area will develop a frosted, white appearance and you may feel burning or stinging.

After three to five minutes, the physician will neutralize or remove the solution and apply a cool compress and a soothing emollient.

Possible side effects of chemical peels

Almost everyone experiences some expected side effects, while serious complications are uncommon. Typical reactions include:

• redness and swelling
• peeling
• stinging or burning sensations

Less common but more serious complications include:

• permanent darkening or lightening of the skin
• scarring or infection

What to expect after the peel

Following the peel, burning or stinging may persist for 20 minutes or longer. Your skin will be red, swollen, and feel tight during the first 24 hours. Swelling typically subsides and the treated skin begins to peel.

The skin may darken or form brown patches while healing, but these discolorations seldom remain once healing is complete. As the damaged outer layers slough off, renewed smooth skin is revealed.

New skin typically appears within five to seven days after a medium peel, although redness can linger for several months in some cases. Generally, full healing and visible results occur in 7–14 days.

Results are not permanent: skin will continue to age, sun exposure can cause new damage, acne may create fresh scars, and new hyperpigmented areas can form.

Post-peel skincare and care

To stay comfortable and support healing after a peel, you should:

• Use ice packs or a fan to soothe burning. Avoid letting the skin dry out in front of the fan.
• Moisturize often. Apply moisturizer whenever the skin feels tight, dry, or itchy. In the days after a peel you may need to moisturize 10–20 times daily.
• Follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions. This may include gentle cleansing and application of antibiotic ointment if prescribed.
• Avoid picking or peeling the skin. The flaking outer layer protects the new skin underneath; premature removal can cause pain, burning, and potential scarring. Hot showers and heavy sweating can also make the skin shed too early.
• Take any prescribed medications. You may be advised to take over-the-counter pain relievers and/or antibiotics.
• Protect your skin from the sun. Skin is very photosensitive after a peel. Avoid sun exposure until fully healed, and continue to use protective clothing and sunscreen in the months after to reduce the risk of dark spots and sunburn.

If the redness and flaking bother you, you can use makeup to conceal it once the irritation has settled.

The bottom line

From improving acne scars to lessening freckles, sun damage, age spots, and scarring, the Jessner peel can help produce smoother, more evenly toned skin.

While at-home Jessner products can offer some improvement, treatments from a dermatologist are more likely to produce stronger, longer-lasting results. Discuss with your doctor to determine whether a Jessner peel is appropriate for your skin type and cosmetic goals. For other in-office treatments that address pigmentation and scarring, your dermatologist may also discuss options such as a TCA peel or professional aftercare routines similar to castor oil packs and topical regimens.