A Dermatologist Explains the Hype Behind Jessner Peels

A few months ago, I experienced my first-ever chemical peel. And, despite my deep-seated fear of looking like Samantha Jones à la Sex and the City, I'd like to think my newfound glowy skin and I came out on top. However, one thing I learned throughout the process was how much one peel can vary from the next depending on skin type, skin goals, and the specific acids used. Almost immediately, my initial assumption that chemical peels were one-size-fits-all (and likely bound for tragedy) was completely debunked—and I became a believer.

The experience also piqued my interest and inspired me to learn more about the different types of peels and the associated process and science involved. Thus, I was led to the mythical Jessner peel. Okay, it's not exactly mythical, but it's commonly searched for (think a 3600-and-growing search volume on Google), and time-honored—the Jessner peel itself has been around for over 100 years. It's named for Dr. Max Jessner, the man who invented the solution used in the treatment.

Yet, its true magic seems murky and vague upon research. So, with the help of holistic esthetician Biba de Sousa, and dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman, we decoded the Jessner peel once and for all.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about Jessner peels.

What is a Jessner Peel?

There is so much more to the Jessner peel, and peels in general, than I ever would have guessed had you asked me months ago. According to de Sousa, "The Jessner peel (or the more commonly used modified Jessner peel) is a safe, effective way of maintaining the skin and is also very effective on body parts, too." Engelman adds that the peel addresses acne, hyperpigmentation, signs of aging like sagging skin, wrinkles, and more.

But let's take it a step further. First, per de Sousa, it's important to understand that there are three different classes of peels, which fall somewhere on a scale between superficial (requiring little to no downtime) and deep (requiring weeks, maybe even months, of downtime). The Jessner peel falls somewhere in the middle.

"The Jessner solution is a commonly used medium-depth peeling agent, which means the solution only affects the upper layer of the dermis, in a controlled manner. It requires specific application rules, and the traditional peel features a mix of alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids in a specific ratio—14 percent of resorcinol, salicylic, and lactic acid in an ethanol base," says de Sousa. "The pH (potential of hydrogen) of the solution is typically 1.9."

So, what's the strategy behind the aforementioned mix of acids? According to de Sousa, it's very specific. First, she explains to me that salicylic acid is keratolytic and, therefore, dissolves hardened skin cells within the epidermal (aka outermost) layer of the skin, while lactic acid simultaneously adds a dose of hydration. Then, resorcinol has historically been used in the Jessner formula, thanks to its natural antiseptic properties. However, as of just recently, this is being modified.

"These days, resorcinol is being taken out of Jessner's solution because it is a phenol derivative and raises health questions. Instead, TCA (trichloroacetic acid) is being used, which is the most popular method of medium-depth peels, called modified Jessners. Retinol and other AHAs can also be added to modified Jessners, such as mandelic, azelaic, phytic, glycolic, and the like," says de Sousa.

"You should not receive Jessner peels if you are pregnant or are allergic to certain acids, as contains a significant dose of salicylic acid," says Engelman. de Sousa adds that "Beta-hydroxy acid (salicylic acid) is contraindicated to pregnancy, but even beyond that, the hormonal fluctuation that happens in a female body during pregnancy can lead to serious consequences of the outcome of any chemical peel, leading to hyperpigmentation. Medically, anyone allergic to salicylic acid (this is commonly an allergy to aspirin) or resorcinol is not to use this peel."

The Jessner Difference

As mentioned earlier, the Jessner peel is a medium-depth peel, which is what separates it from its more superficial or deep counterparts.

"Jessner solution is a leave-in solution that is self-neutralizing and takes several days to complete the peeling process. This kind of peel has to be left undisturbed (without application of water or oil) in the skin for a minimum of six to eight hours post-treatment to allow for the full benefit," de Sousa tells us. (And don't worry—we'll get to said benefits in a minute).

On the other hand, de Sousa explains that more superficial peels require little to no downtime and no serious post-peel complications. Deep peels, however, which typically involve phenol or 25 percent TCA, penetrate on a much deeper level and have serious constraints where required downtime is concerned. (Think sedation during application and up to eight weeks of prep time pre-peel). Not surprisingly, deep peels aren't a popular choice (ahem, Samantha Jones) since they can yield unpredictable results with side effects such as pain, severe peeling, and increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Benefits of a Jessner Peel

In the most simplistic of terms, de Sousa explains that the Jessner solution essentially deconstructs the top-most layer of the skin and, in turn, triggers an inflammatory response from the skin layers that sit below. Ultimately, since our skin has a natural intuition to heal itself, this leads to the removal of actinic keratoses (translation: sun damage) and the improvement of minor hyperpigmentation, scarring, wrinkles, and elasticity.

"It also improves cell turnover and helps your skin look younger and brighter," adds Engelman.

How to Prepare for a Jessner Peel

Engelman cautions that if you are aware of any sensitivities to chemical peels, acids, or the ingredient in the Jessner peel, or if you have very sensitive skin, talk with your dermatologist before getting the Jessner peel.

"It is recommended that you avoid UV exposure, antibiotics, and anything that could harm/weaken your skin barrier for two weeks before receiving the peel," she says. "You should also stop using specific active ingredients including retinol, BHAs/AHAs, and benzoyl peroxide a week before receiving the peel."

What to Expect During a Jessner Peel

Here's a look at what actually goes down: "The application of the peel itself only takes a few minutes," says de Sousa. "First, I'll thoroughly clean the skin and hydrate it as much as possible. I like to exfoliate with my sonic blade, where molecules of water are being burst by ultrasonic waves and hydration can supplement the skin. This particular technique is my safeguard against the peel solution penetrating too fast, too deep, or in an uneven manner. After skin hydration, a layer of the peel is applied using gauze and swiped around the skin. I allow about two minutes for the penetration of the product, and I observe the skin for any 'hot spots.' Typically, we apply two to three layers of the peeling solution and then will apply a corrective agent on top, which can include things like retinol, vitamins, hyaluronic acid, or peptides, depending on our goals for skin and what kind of underlying conditions there are."

Potential Side Effects

Engelman notes that clients will experience some redness, tightness, and peeling afterward, which is normal and should last about five days. "If the peel is not applied properly, or if you don’t follow post-procedure directions (like avoiding UV rays after treatment) you could end up with hyperpigmentation," she says.

"The main risks are skin blanching (when peeling solution penetrates too deep in the skin because too many layers are being applied) adds de Sousa.

In other words, only ever go to a licensed professional, and make sure to follow pre- and post-care instructions to a T.

The Cost

According to Engleman, the Jessner peel costs about $75 to $400 depending on where you get the peel, the area to be peeled, and other factors.

Aftercare

"Post-peel, avoid applying water- or oil-based products on the application area for six to eight hours or, preferably, overnight. Water can push the solution deeper into the skin, and oil will neutralize the action of the peel. Sweating (hot yoga, exercising) and extreme temperature exposure should also be avoided for the first 24 hours. During this time, only washing, hydrating, and applying sunscreen are allowed. Around day three, the skin will tighten and start to peel, and you'll need to add hydration-promoting products into your regimen. Peeling is usually finished by day five, and after that, active ingredients are carefully reintroduced to the skincare regimen," says de Sousa.

The Final Takeaway

As always, make sure to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or esthetician before deciding on whether a Jessner peel is right for you. Your specific skin type, skincare goals, and any other underlying conditions will dictate your optimal peel and/or treatment plan.