Saratoga (408) 741-9982 Redwood City (650) 227-9693
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From Light Refresh to Dramatic Renewal

The deeper the peel, the greater the results but the longer the recovery time. Mild or superficial peels are usually made of alphahydroxy acids (AHAs); moderate peels are usually made of glycolic acid; deep or aggressive peels are usually made of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or a mixture of different acids. You might need more than one peel to achieve the results you want.

At Cheng Plastic Surgery, our board-certified facial plastic surgeons approach every procedure individually. We spend time with you to understand what you wish to correct, and we examine you carefully to determine the best plan to achieve your goals. We have extensive experience with chemical peels and can help you determine the best peel for your skin.

What are Chemical Peels?

Chemical peels are non-surgical treatments that use specially formulated chemicals to exfoliate your skin, removing the damaged outer layers of your skin, and stimulating the regeneration of fresh, youthful skin cells. Chemical peels can be performed on your face, neck, and hands, and are effective at treating:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Sun damage
  • Sun spots
  • Age spots
  • Freckles and other hyperpigmented skin cells
  • Scars
  • Melasma (a condition where brown patches appear on your skin)
  • Uneven skin tone
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“I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else for any procedure.”

Thank you Dr. J and Dr. E and everyone at the practice!!

SUCH a great experience with Dr. Elbert Cheng and Dr. Jackie Cheng. Everyone at the practice is so nice to work with, helpful, friendly, and accommodating. I was well informed p...

SUCH a great experience with Dr. Elbert Cheng and Dr. Jackie Cheng. Everyone at the practice is so nice to work with, helpful, friendly, and accommodating. I was well informed prior to the procedures received. There were no surprises and everyone at the practice ensured I had everything I needed. Healing was such a smooth experience because of all the prep provided. I could not be happier with the results. Thank you Dr. J and Dr. E and everyone at the practice!!

by S.T.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

Teresa did an absolutely amazing job on my eyebrow tattoo removal! I flew all the way from Vegas to see her and it was the best decision ever! From the consultation, to the actu...

Teresa did an absolutely amazing job on my eyebrow tattoo removal! I flew all the way from Vegas to see her and it was the best decision ever! From the consultation, to the actual procedure, she was super thorough and walked me through each step of the process! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

by M.V.

The result looks very natural

I had a double eyelid revision on one eye with Dr. Elbert Cheng to correct asymmetry from previous surgeries performed by other surgeons. The consultation with Dr. Cheng felt th...

I had a double eyelid revision on one eye with Dr. Elbert Cheng to correct asymmetry from previous surgeries performed by other surgeons. The consultation with Dr. Cheng felt thorough and reassuring, and I appreciated that the entire process from pre-op to post-op was clearly explained, accompanied by scheduled appointments. I also received post-op care instructions, which I believe helped speed up the recovery process. What truly amazed me was that I experienced no bruising at all, which is something I’ve never had with any of my previous surgeries. In the past, I always bruised, so I was impressed by Dr. Cheng’s skill. It’s been 6 months since the surgery and the fold height is now much closer to my other eye. The result looks very natural. Highly recommend Dr. Cheng to anyone considering eyelid surgery!

by E.O.

Great experience with staff and procedure

Great experience with staff and procedure. I got upper blepharoplasty done in Sept with Dr. Elbert Cheng. From day one the staff was kind and very helpful. During my consu...

Great experience with staff and procedure. I got upper blepharoplasty done in Sept with Dr. Elbert Cheng. From day one the staff was kind and very helpful. During my consultation with Dr. Cheng he was so informative and kind, great bed side manner. He was honest when I asked about other surgeries stating that I didn’t need them at this time, and gave great feedback as to why I didn’t need it and why I should wait. I love my results and healed very quickly. All in all a great doctor who is experienced and very knowledgeable in his field.

by K.S.

One of the best decisions in my life

Long overdue review. Back in November 2023 I got chin lipo from Elbert Cheng - one of the best decisions in my life.

I was 34 at the time. I had the most stubborn double ...

Long overdue review. Back in November 2023 I got chin lipo from Elbert Cheng - one of the best decisions in my life.

I was 34 at the time. I had the most stubborn double chin that would not go away. I had lost about 20 pounds through diet and exercise yet it was still there (I’m about 160 lbs, avid weightlifter). I blame genetics. I would see the double chin in photos and on screen while I was in my Zoom meetings - it became such a sore sight for me. I finally bit the bullet to get it removed with lipo.

The staff at Cheng Plastic Surgery were all absolutely amazing. The staff and Dr. Cheng gave me all the information about the procedure and answered all my questions. They were not pushy at all and let me take the time to decide if this was something I wanted to pursue. The day of the procedure, Dr. Cheng and staff were great and made sure I was comfortable and not nervous. The procedure itself was rather quick (less than an hour) and painless. Recovery was surprisingly not bad. There were quick check-in visits post-surgery for Dr. Cheng to monitor healing. I followed all of the post-procedure instructions and healed with no complications and I’m pleased to say the double chin is gone. It’s such a relief to not see it show up in photos anymore. I’m so thankful to Dr. Cheng and his staff - highly recommend.

by A.K.

I've had a fantastic experience with Teresa over the last year

I've had a fantastic experience with Teresa over the last year. She has been cautious, transparent, informative, and empathetic throughout our laser treatment sessions!
Ind...

I've had a fantastic experience with Teresa over the last year. She has been cautious, transparent, informative, and empathetic throughout our laser treatment sessions!
Indeed every member of the Cheng Plastic Surgery team that has helped me has been wonderful :)

by J.T.

I highly recommend Dr. Cheng

I had an amazing experience getting Botox with Dr. Cheng! Dr. Cheng and the staff are incredibly personable, taking the time to listen to my concerns and explain everything in d...

I had an amazing experience getting Botox with Dr. Cheng! Dr. Cheng and the staff are incredibly personable, taking the time to listen to my concerns and explain everything in detail. I never feel rushed, and the whole process is smooth. The results are exactly what I want—natural and refreshed without looking overdone. If you're looking for a skilled and caring provider, I highly recommend Dr. Cheng.

by K.C.

Theresa is the best at what she does!

Theresa is the best at what she does! I live in Fresno and make the drive because there is no one like her. She really takes her time to perfect her work! Will always keep comin...

Theresa is the best at what she does! I live in Fresno and make the drive because there is no one like her. She really takes her time to perfect her work! Will always keep coming back.

by E.A.

Her calm and reassuring demeanor is truly appreciated

The clinic itself is always clean and the staff are very welcoming, making me feel comfortable as soon as I walk in. Teresa is not only professional but also incredibly friendly...

The clinic itself is always clean and the staff are very welcoming, making me feel comfortable as soon as I walk in. Teresa is not only professional but also incredibly friendly. She has such a soothing aura that instantly puts me at ease, and I never feel nervous or anxious during the treatments. Her calm and reassuring demeanor is truly appreciated. I highly recommend Teresa for anyone considering laser treatments — she makes the entire process smooth and stress-free!

by H.D.

Recommend Teresa 10/10

Teresa is great!!!! I love my lips and she was super helpful during the process to make me feel comfortable. Talked me through the whole process it didn't even feel like I was g...

Teresa is great!!!! I love my lips and she was super helpful during the process to make me feel comfortable. Talked me through the whole process it didn't even feel like I was getting my lips done. Recommend Teresa 10/10 experience.

by J.S.

I highly recommend to all

A few years ago I was referred to Cheng plastic Surgery, Best referral ever! I have been fortunate to have Theresa RN, administer all my botox/dysport, she does such amazing wor...

A few years ago I was referred to Cheng plastic Surgery, Best referral ever! I have been fortunate to have Theresa RN, administer all my botox/dysport, she does such amazing work! I highly recommend to all.

by E.T.

Looking forward to coming back!

I visited to get chin filler done and it was such a great experience. Nurse Teresa was so helpful and walked me through everything she was doing. Looking forward to coming back!...

I visited to get chin filler done and it was such a great experience. Nurse Teresa was so helpful and walked me through everything she was doing. Looking forward to coming back!

by S.H.

Will definitely be coming back for next touch-up!

First time getting Botox at this location and my experience has been wonderful. Teresa was my nurse injector who made the process smooth and painless. Also, the follow up appoin...

First time getting Botox at this location and my experience has been wonderful. Teresa was my nurse injector who made the process smooth and painless. Also, the follow up appointment really showed the improvement in my wrinkles, which Teresa did an amazing job. Will definitely be coming back for next touch-up!

by M.M.

I would come back if I ever needed anything

Kevin was very nice and comforting! Came here for neck line treatment (hyaluronic acid fillers). Overall, was a pleasant experience, and I would come back if I ever needed anyth...

Kevin was very nice and comforting! Came here for neck line treatment (hyaluronic acid fillers). Overall, was a pleasant experience, and I would come back if I ever needed anything

by L.

The clinic itself is always clean and the staff are very welcoming, making me feel comfortable as soon as I walk in. Teresa is not only professional but also incredibly friendly...

The clinic itself is always clean and the staff are very welcoming, making me feel comfortable as soon as I walk in. Teresa is not only professional but also incredibly friendly. She has such a soothing aura that instantly puts me at ease, and I never feel nervous or anxious during the treatments. Her calm and reassuring demeanor is truly appreciated. I highly recommend Teresa for anyone considering laser treatments — she makes the entire process smooth and stress-free!

by H.D.

I saw the finishing product I started to cry

Huge Shout out to Teresa for The super marvelous job she did on my lips. Honestly I was really nervous about doing lip filler and making sure that they came out looking plump an...

Huge Shout out to Teresa for The super marvelous job she did on my lips. Honestly I was really nervous about doing lip filler and making sure that they came out looking plump and full but natural. That's exactly the result I got. Teresa knew exactly how to give me a nice border around my lips and gave me the prettiest cupids bow and pout. looks really pretty with lip liner and gloss now. I actually was so excited when I saw the finishing product I started to cry. I 100% recommend Dr. Cheng & his team for all your aesthetic needs ❤️

by N.E.

I would thoroughly recommend this practice

I saw Dr. Jacqueline Cheng for microblading removal using Pico laser. The entire experience from start to finish, was professional, comfortable, and efficient. I had microbladin...

I saw Dr. Jacqueline Cheng for microblading removal using Pico laser. The entire experience from start to finish, was professional, comfortable, and efficient. I had microblading done 5-6 years ago that never faded, and the lines had blurred. I have been to this practice 3 times; the first for a free consultation, again for a spot test, and the third for the actual laser treatment.

For the day of the actual treatment, I was in and out in under 30 minutes. They numbed my eyebrow with an ice cube to make sure that I was comfortable during the treatment, and talked me through what they were doing during the entire process. The results after one session were already very good and apparent, with the tattoo fading a lot (picture attached). I made a follow-up appointment for 3 months out, but the doctor mentioned that it should fade even more before then as my skin will naturally fade the ink. I would thoroughly recommend this practice for your tattoo/microblading removal.

by D.Z.

I always feel well taken care of here

Dr. Jackie recommended I get the CO2 laser to help lessen the appearance of my acne scars. The procedure itself took less than 20 minutes and was not painful. I love how friendl...

Dr. Jackie recommended I get the CO2 laser to help lessen the appearance of my acne scars. The procedure itself took less than 20 minutes and was not painful. I love how friendly the nurses are in the office too. I always feel well taken care of here and of course, appreciate how friendly and professional Dr. Jackie is.

by E.P.

I’ve honestly tried other places and they just do not compare

I’ve gone to Cheng’s to see Alex for Botox and/or Dysport now a few times and it is always a pleasure. I’ve honestly tried other places and they just do not co...

I’ve gone to Cheng’s to see Alex for Botox and/or Dysport now a few times and it is always a pleasure. I’ve honestly tried other places and they just do not compare. 10/10 I will always come back & recommend Botox/Dysport here at Cheng’s. Technique and knowledge goes a long way with these type of things, and cheaper doesn’t always mean better yall! Trust me I’ve learned along the way! Not to mention the office is always so clean and the staff is very welcoming.

by C.W.

As soon as you enter you feel welcomed

Great experience here!!! The lovely person who attended me at Cheng Plastic Surgery was Teresa. She is so amazing and I left so happy. The service I came in for was lip filler, ...

Great experience here!!! The lovely person who attended me at Cheng Plastic Surgery was Teresa. She is so amazing and I left so happy. The service I came in for was lip filler, I wanted plumper lips that would look natural and she did just that! It was my first time so I can't lie and say I didn't feel nervous at first. But after the consultation and her talking me through it, it was easy to give her my full trust. She made me feel so at ease and explained everything so well. She is very experienced/professional and well informed, told her my goals and she worked her magic. Don't regret it one bit. And Teresa's energy is beautiful, feels genuine and warm-- I feel that is important in these types of services!

Location is great. Aesthetics are on point. Super clean. Everyone who I interacted in the office with was very kind, so many smiles. As soon as you enter you feel welcomed and inside rooms I always felt well attended.

by R.C.

Thanks Teresa, Dr. Cheng, & team!

I had a problem with a frown line & Teresa at Cheng Plastic Surgery has done a great job resolving my issue with botox/dysport therapy. Thanks Teresa, Dr. Cheng, & team!...

I had a problem with a frown line & Teresa at Cheng Plastic Surgery has done a great job resolving my issue with botox/dysport therapy. Thanks Teresa, Dr. Cheng, & team!

by N.S.

He is truly the best and most knowledgeable doctor

My family has been coming to Dr. Cheng for all of our beauty needs. He is truly the best and most knowledgeable doctor. His team is also so kind and they will go above and beyon...

My family has been coming to Dr. Cheng for all of our beauty needs. He is truly the best and most knowledgeable doctor. His team is also so kind and they will go above and beyond to make sure you’re satisfied and comfortable.

by C.

Amazing session with Kevin!

Amazing session with Kevin! Super thoughtful in explaining the journey and provided guidance on how to approach my skin. Appreciate the team of how to apply the treatments. Sche...

Amazing session with Kevin! Super thoughtful in explaining the journey and provided guidance on how to approach my skin. Appreciate the team of how to apply the treatments. Scheduling was easy and getting to the office was also easy

by R.K.
woman with blonde hair wearing a black shirt

How Much Do Chemical Peels Generally Cost?

The cost of a chemical peel varies based on the depth of peel you choose, and the formula needed to achieve the improvements you envision. Chemical peels cost an average of $400 but could be less or more, based on the type of peel formula.

What Are the Benefits?

In addition to repairing sun damage and the signs of aging, chemical peels offer several far-reaching benefits to your skin, including:

  • Clearing acne breakouts
  • Restoring fresh, youthful, hydrated facial skin
  • Making your at-home skin care regimen more effective by removing the buildup of dead skin cells and pore congestion

Chemical Peels Before & After

Your Chemical Peel Procedure

Two to four weeks prior to your peel, you may begin treating your skin with certain prescription-strength products available through our office.

On the day of your peel, we will start by cleansing your skin. You may receive local anesthesia, and a topical anesthetic may then be applied.

The chemical formula is applied to the skin and remains for a short time before it is removed. Most of our Palo Alto chemical peels take about a half hour to complete. You can also take pain relievers prior to your peel to minimize discomfort. For moderate and aggressive peels, you will receive oral sedation and local anesthesia.

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How Do Chemical Peels Work?

Chemicals peels are outpatient procedures performed in our clinic. The treatment varies, depending on the depth of the peel administered.

Superficial Peel:

Superficial peels are rapid treatments that only remove the uppermost layers of skin, and we may or may not apply a topical anesthetic depending on your skin’s sensitivity. The procedure begins with a deep cleaning of your skin, followed by the application of the peel solution. Your skin may tingle and will start to whiten over time. Once the peel is complete, the peel solution is removed, and the peel solution neutralized. The outer layers of skin will then shed over the following days, giving way for new, healthy skin cells. Superficial peels can be performed more frequently.

Moderate Peel:

A moderate peel will begin with an application of a local anesthetic for your skin, followed by deep cleansing. Once your skin is ready, we apply the peel solution. Your skin will begin to whiten, and you will likely feel a stinging or burning sensation. Once complete, a moderate peel will have exfoliated several of the upper layers of your skin, with more elastic, smooth, and beautiful skin cells underneath emerging over the following days.

Deep Peel:

Deep peels are the most effective form of chemical peel and performed under general anesthetic. A powerful chemical peel solution will be applied to your skin, exfoliating through to the deeper layers of your skin and causing a significant level of skin regeneration. Your skin will turn white or gray, and you can expect swelling, redness, burning, and throbbing sensations. Most patients see new, smooth, fresh skin revealed within two weeks of treatment. For many, the results of a deep chemical peel greatly outweigh the challenge of recovery.

Who is a Candidate?

Anyone who is dissatisfied with the condition of their skin and wants comprehensive exfoliation that will reduce the visible signs of aging is a likely candidate for our Palo Alto chemical peels. Chemical peels are very effective treatments that are safe for almost any skin type or condition.

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Recovering from a Chemical Peel

You can be driven home immediately after your chemical peel, but you will have after-effects for about two weeks. The deeper the peel, the more significant these symptoms will be.

If you have had a mild peel, the symptoms will also be milder and will resolve more quickly. These symptoms include tenderness, redness, swelling, and peeling/crusting of the skin.

Prior to your procedure, we will discuss with you how long you should plan to miss work after your peel. If you experience discomfort, you can take either non-prescription or prescription pain medication.

We can provide you with a gentle cleanser and skin care products to ease discomfort and speed healing. Please also wear sunscreen when outdoors, as your skin will be more vulnerable to sunburn.

Why Choose Cheng Plastic Surgery for Chemical Peels?

At Cheng Plastic Surgery, all treatments are performed under the supervision of our brother-sister team of double-board certified plastic surgeons, offering top-level professionalism, comfort, and care for our patients. As a team, we are dedicated to helping our patients look and feel their best.

If you wish to learn more, don't hesitate to contact us today and schedule a consultation for arguably the best treatment of chemical peels San Jose has to offer.

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