How much is a chemical peel?
May 07, 2025
What exactly is a chemical peel and is it as scary as it sounds?
Let’s be real – chemical peel doesn’t sound super friendly. The word “chemical” sounds harsh, and “peel” makes it sound like your face might shed like a snake. But don’t let the name scare you off. A chemical peel is actually one of the easiest and most effective ways to freshen up your skin. It’s not nearly as intense as people think, and with the right care, it can be really gentle – even relaxing.
At Coastal Massage & Spa in Wilmington NC, we offer professional-grade chemical peels that are perfect for people wanting smoother, clearer, brighter skin without the drama.
What is a chemical peel?
A chemical peel is a skin treatment where a special solution is applied to your skin to help get rid of dead skin cells. It’s like a supercharged version of exfoliating. The top layer of skin starts to shed off (or flake off lightly), revealing the fresher, healthier skin underneath.
That might sound a bit much, but it’s honestly pretty simple. Your skin goes through a natural renewal process already – this just speeds it up. You’re helping your skin do what it’s already trying to do: renew and glow.

How much is a chemical peel?
Let’s talk price because that matters too.
Our PCA Customized Chemical Peel at Coastal Massage & Spa is $150 for 45 minutes. It includes a full consultation and a peel that’s designed just for your skin. No cookie-cutter treatments here.
PCA Skin has been around for over 25 years. Their products are made by a medical doctor and only used by licensed skin professionals who have been trained and certified. These are high-quality, professional-grade products – not something you’ll find in the skincare aisle at the chemist.
Even if your skin doesn’t physically peel much, the treatment still works. The outer layer is exfoliating, and you’ll still get that glow. The amount of peeling depends on things like your skin type, the peel used, and how many layers are applied. But even without heavy flaking, your skin will feel smoother and look more refreshed.

Why get a chemical peel?
People try chemical peels for different reasons. They’re great for:
Uneven skin tone
Dullness or rough texture
Fine lines and wrinkles
Acne and acne scars
Sun spots and age spots
Even one chemical peel can leave your skin looking brighter and feeling softer. It can also help your other skincare products sink in better since there’s no layer of dead skin getting in the way.
The different types of chemical peels
Not all chemical peels are the same. There are three main types:
Light chemical peel – This is the most gentle option. It only treats the outer layer of your skin and has little to no downtime. It’s great for a quick refresh and good for first-timers.
Medium chemical peel – This one goes deeper and can help with things like pigmentation, mild scarring, and deeper fine lines. You might have a few days of light peeling or flaking afterward.
Deep chemical peel – This is the strongest option and is only used in certain cases. It has a longer recovery time and targets more serious skin issues. It’s not something you jump into without a good chat first.
At Coastal Massage & Spa, we offer PCA Customized Chemical Peels, which can be adjusted to suit your skin type and your goals. Whether your skin is dry, oily, ageing, or acne-prone, we’ll tailor the peel to fit you.
Does it hurt? Will I peel like crazy?
We get this question a lot. A chemical peel might tingle a little, or feel warm on your skin while it’s working – but it’s not painful. We’ll check in with you during the treatment to make sure everything feels okay. Afterward, you might feel a bit tight or dry, and you may see some flaking for a few days. That’s totally normal and just part of the process.
Not everyone peels in a dramatic way, and that’s fine. Your skin is still going through changes underneath the surface. You’ll notice the results in the days after – more glow, better texture, and just an overall fresher look.
What should I do after a peel?
After a chemical peel, you’ll want to keep your skin clean and moisturised. Avoid direct sun, and definitely wear sunscreen (this part is non-negotiable). Your skin will be more sensitive for a few days, so it’s a good idea to skip any harsh scrubs or active ingredients for a bit.
We’ll send you home with tips and aftercare so you know exactly what to do. Our goal is to make sure your skin heals well and looks its best.
How often should I get a peel?
Most people get a chemical peel every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on their skin goals. Some people get them more often when working on acne or texture issues. Others just come in occasionally for a refresh. We’ll help you figure out what works best for your skin.
Why get a chemical peel with us at Coastal Massage & Spa in Wilmington NC?
We’re all about keeping things real and making your skin feel great. No scary stuff, no pressure. Just clean, customised skincare in a calm, friendly space. We take time to get to know your skin, talk through your goals, and give you a treatment that actually works for you.
We only use trusted products like PCA Skin, and we’ve been trained to use them properly. If it’s your first time getting a chemical peel, don’t stress—we’ll walk you through it, answer your questions, and make sure you’re comfortable every step of the way.
So, is a chemical peel as scary as it sounds?
Not at all. A chemical peel is a simple, safe, and really effective way to boost your skin’s glow. It’s not about burning or peeling off layers – it’s about helping your skin look its best in a natural way.
If you’ve been thinking about trying one, we’d love to help. Come see us at Coastal Massage & Spa in Wilmington NCand let’s talk about how a chemical peel can fit into your skincare routine. We’ll make it easy, chill, and totally worth it.
Ready to glow? Book your PCA Customized Chemical Peel today. We’re here to help your skin feel smooth, bright, and healthy!
