Skin & Aesthetics · Chemical peel
Jessner Peel in Seoul: A Chemical Peel for Acne and Dark Marks
A Jessner peel is a chemical peel that combines salicylic acid, lactic acid and resorcinol to loosen and shed the outer layers of skin, improving acne, clogged pores, dark marks, uneven tone and rough texture. At Hommage Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, Dr. Hwang Seonhwa sets the number of layers, and so the depth, for your skin type, from a light superficial peel to a stronger superficial-to-medium treatment.
Quick answer
A Jessner peel is a chemical peel that blends salicylic acid, lactic acid and resorcinol (traditionally 14% each) to shed the outer skin and improve acne, clogged pores, dark marks and rough texture. At Hommage Women's Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, Dr. Hwang Seonhwa controls depth by the number of coats, from a light superficial peel to a stronger superficial-to-medium one. A session takes about 20–30 minutes; peeling usually starts on day 2–3 and lasts 3–7 days. Most plans are 3–6 peels, 2–4 weeks apart.
Key takeaways
- More coats mean a deeper peel and more downtime; lighter series are often safer for Asian and darker skin.
- A pink-to-bronze tint on day 1 and visible peeling from day 2–3 are expected.
- Not for pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for people allergic to aspirin, salicylates or resorcinol.
- It improves surface problems; it will not fill deep acne scars or tighten sagging skin.
Infographic
Jessner peel in numbers
Active ingredients
Salicylic acid, lactic acid and resorcinol.
Each, traditionally
In an alcohol base; depth set by coats.
Session time
Including skin preparation.
Peeling starts
Often first around the mouth.
Visible peeling
Lighter peels may only flake finely.
Peels in a series
About 2–4 weeks apart.
Jessner peel at a glance
| Key fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Peel depth | Superficial; more layers reach the upper dermis (superficial-to-medium) |
| Treatment time | About 20–30 minutes, including skin preparation |
| Comfort | Stinging and heat for a few minutes; a handheld fan helps. No numbing needed |
| Sessions | Typically 3–6 sessions about 2–4 weeks apart |
| Downtime | Redness and tightness, then peeling from about day 2–3 for up to a week |
| Results visible | Smoother, brighter skin after peeling ends; tone improves over a series |
| Performed by | Dr. Hwang Seonhwa, physician for skin and aesthetic treatments |
A Jessner peel may suit you if you have
- Mild to moderate acne, blackheads or clogged pores
- Dark marks left after breakouts (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
- Freckles, sun spots or an uneven, dull skin tone
- Rough texture, oily skin or very fine lines
Wait or choose another option if you
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are allergic to aspirin, salicylates or resorcinol
- Have an active cold sore, open wounds, sunburn or a skin infection
- Used isotretinoin recently, or have a history of keloid scars
- Have used retinoids, had waxing or laser on the area within the past week
What is a Jessner peel?
A Jessner peel is a chemical peel made from three ingredients, traditionally 14% each of salicylic acid, lactic acid and resorcinol in an alcohol base. Together, they break down the bonds between dead skin cells and reduce oil in the pores, so the outer skin sheds over the following days and is replaced by fresher skin.
- Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so it gets into pores and helps with acne and blackheads.
- Lactic acid loosens dead cells and supports hydration.
- Resorcinol boosts the peeling effect and has antibacterial action.
Unlike a single-acid peel, a Jessner peel lets the doctor control depth layer by layer, which is why it is so widely used in clinics.
Superficial vs medium-depth peels: where does Jessner fit?
Chemical peels are grouped by how deep they reach. Jessner sits in the middle ground.
- Very superficial and superficial peels affect only the epidermis. One or two coats of Jessner, or a gentle salicylic acid peel , fall here: light flaking and little downtime.
- Superficial-to-medium: with more coats, Jessner reaches the boundary with the upper dermis, giving stronger results with several days of visible peeling.
- Medium-depth peels reach the upper dermis. A classic method applies Jessner first, then trichloroacetic acid (TCA), which deepens the peel. This needs about a week of healing and more care in darker skin.
A stronger peel is not automatically better. For Asian and darker skin, which can darken after inflammation, a series of lighter peels is often safer than one deep peel. Focal high-strength TCA is used differently, on single scars; see TCA CROSS treatment .
What can a Jessner peel treat?
Jessner peels are most useful for problems in the upper layers of skin:
- Active acne, blackheads and oily skin. See chemical peels for acne for how peels fit into acne care.
- Dark marks after acne, and some freckles and sun spots.
- Rough texture, dullness and very fine lines.
- Melasma, in selected cases and with great care, usually alongside other measures in a melasma treatment plan.
A Jessner peel will not fill deep acne scars, remove deep wrinkles or tighten sagging skin. Those concerns need resurfacing, injectables or energy-based treatments.
What happens during a Jessner peel?
A Jessner peel takes about 20–30 minutes. Your skin is cleansed and degreased so the solution absorbs evenly, and protective ointment is placed in sensitive spots such as the corners of the eyes, nose and mouth. The doctor then applies the solution in thin coats, watching how your skin responds after each one. You will feel stinging and heat for a few minutes, eased with a fan. With more coats, a light white frost may appear. Finally, a soothing moisturizer and sunscreen are applied.
How long does peeling last after a Jessner peel?
For most people, visible peeling lasts about 3–7 days. On the first day, the skin looks pink and feels tight, and a slight bronze or yellowish tint is normal. Peeling usually starts around day 2–3, often first around the mouth, and finishes within a week. Lighter peels may cause only fine flaking.
- Moisturize often with a gentle, fragrance-free product.
- Do not pick or pull peeling skin. Pulling it off early can cause dark marks or scarring.
- Strict sun protection: use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily and avoid strong sun for at least 2 weeks.
- Avoid retinoids, scrubs, acids, saunas and intense exercise until the peeling has finished.
Skin looks smoother and brighter once peeling ends, and tone and acne usually improve further over a series.
Risks and possible side effects
Jessner peels are well established, but every chemical peel carries risks, and Dr. Hwang will review them with you before treatment:
- Redness, stinging and tightness, usually settling within a few days.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): temporary darkening, more common in Asian and darker skin and with sun exposure after the peel.
- Prolonged redness or sensitivity, especially after deeper peels.
- Cold sore reactivation: if you get cold sores, antiviral medicine may be recommended before a deeper peel.
- Allergic or irritant reactions, including to resorcinol or salicylates.
- Infection, and rarely scarring or lighter patches, mainly after deeper peels or picking.
Call the clinic if you notice blisters, oozing, yellow crusts, increasing pain, swelling around the eyes, or dark patches after peeling has finished.
Jessner peel at Hommage Clinic
Hommage Clinic is a women's health and skin clinic in Gangnam, a short walk from Sinnonhyeon Station. Your peel is planned by a doctor, who chooses the depth and schedule for your skin rather than a fixed package. A peel can be combined with otherskin and aesthetics treatments, and if acne or pigmentation seems hormone-related, our OB/GYN team can review that side in the same clinic.
Cost depends on peel depth, the number of sessions and any combined care. Cosmetic chemical peels are not covered by Korea's National Health Insurance. You receive a written quote before treatment, and walk-ins are welcome during opening hours.
Ingredients
What is in Jessner's solution and what does each part do?
Jessner's solution was designed to combine three actives at moderate strengths so that each could do its job without needing a single very strong acid. Salicylic acid targets oily pores, lactic acid loosens dead cells and supports hydration, and resorcinol boosts the peeling effect and has antibacterial action. The result is a peel that can be built up gradually, coat by coat.
Depth
Jessner peel depth: how the number of coats changes the result
The special feature of a Jessner peel is that the doctor can adjust depth during the session. One or two coats give a superficial peel with light flaking. More coats reach the boundary with the upper dermis for a stronger superficial-to-medium peel with several days of visible peeling. When Jessner is followed by trichloroacetic acid (TCA), it becomes a medium-depth peel with about a week of healing; that combination needs particular care in darker skin and is not a routine acne treatment.
| Compare | Salicylic peel | Jessner, 1–2 coats | Jessner, more coats | Jessner + TCA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Depth | Superficial | Superficial | Superficial-to-medium | Medium |
| Downtime | Light flaking 2–5 days | Fine flaking | Visible peeling about 3–7 days | About a week of healing |
| Typical use | Blackheads, oily skin | Acne, first peels | Stubborn congestion, marks, texture | Selected cases, not routine acne care |
| Pigment-prone skin | Usually well tolerated | Good starting point | Build up gradually | Extra caution |
Good candidates
Jessner peel for acne, dark marks and uneven tone
A Jessner peel is a step up from a single-acid superficial peel. It is often chosen when salicylic acid alone has not cleared stubborn congestion, or when dark marks after acne are as much of a concern as the breakouts. Because it works on the upper layers, it is best for surface problems.
Stubborn congestion
Blackheads and clogged pores that did not clear with milder peels.
Dark marks after acne
Built up gradually, with strict sun protection.
Rough, dull texture
Smoother, brighter skin once peeling ends.
Melasma
Only with great care, alongside other melasma measures.
Deep scars, sagging
Need resurfacing, injectables or energy-based treatments.
Hommage · Gangnam
Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
The doctor applies measured coats and checks the skin after each one. Illustrative photo.
Healing
Jessner peel day by day: what peeling looks like
Knowing the usual pattern makes the week after a Jessner peel much easier, especially if you have work, events or travel planned. Lighter peels may only cause fine flaking; stronger ones follow the timeline below. The most important rule throughout is not to pull off peeling skin.
Hommage · Gangnam
Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
Moisturize often and let the skin peel on its own. Illustrative photo.
Aftercare
Jessner peel aftercare: do's and don'ts
How you care for your skin in the week after a Jessner peel affects both comfort and the risk of dark marks. You receive these instructions in writing, and you can message the clinic with photos if anything worries you.
Do
- Moisturize often with a gentle, fragrance-free product
- Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily for at least 2 weeks
- Wash with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser
- Take antiviral medicine if prescribed for cold sores
- Contact the clinic about blisters, oozing or yellow crusts
Don't
- Pick or pull peeling skin
- Use retinoids, scrubs or acids until peeling ends
- Use saunas or exercise hard while peeling
- Wax, thread or have laser on the area
- Spend time in strong sun or tanning beds
Your skin
Jessner peel on Asian and darker skin: building up safely
Asian and darker skin can darken after inflammation (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), and a peel that is too deep, or sun exposure afterward, raises that risk. This is one reason Jessner is popular: depth can be controlled coat by coat. For pigment-prone skin, Dr. Hwang usually starts with one or two coats and only builds up once your skin has shown how it responds.
Before your first peel
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and avoid tanning for at least two weeks beforehand.
- Stop retinoids and avoid waxing or laser on the area for about a week.
- Tell the doctor if you get cold sores; antiviral medicine may be recommended before a deeper peel.
If dark marks are the main concern
A pigment correction peel or a melasma treatment plan may suit better than Jessner, especially for melasma, which can worsen with irritation.
Hommage · Gangnam
Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
Shade and daily sunscreen protect peeled skin from dark marks. Illustrative photo.
Evidence
Does a Jessner peel work? What the research says
Jessner's solution has been used in dermatology for many decades and is a standard part of peel practice. For acne specifically, though, the evidence for chemical peels as a procedure is limited: the 2024 American Academy of Dermatology acne guideline found it insufficient to make a recommendation for or against peels. Most studies are small, compare different formulas and numbers of coats, and follow patients for short periods.
Chemical peels for acne
Evidence judged insufficient to recommend for or against.
Reynolds et al., J Am Acad Dermatol, 2024Topical salicylic acid
One of Jessner's ingredients; conditionally recommended as a topical acne treatment.
AAD acne guideline, 2024Retinoids and benzoyl peroxide
The foundation of acne care that peels are added to.
AAD acne guideline, 2024Jessner's vs glycolic acid
In a randomised trial included in a 2018 systematic review, Jessner's solution and glycolic acid gave the same rate of self-reported improvement, but Jessner's caused more scaling that affected daily life.
Chen et al., BMJ Open, 2018 (systematic review)Jessner's vs salicylic acid
In one 40-patient trial, Jessner's reduced comedones by 26.3% vs 53.4% with salicylic acid; inflamed spots improved similarly with both. Rare darkening was reported with both peels.
Chen et al., BMJ Open, 2018
Hommage · Seoul
Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
Plan a Jessner peel early in your stay, before outdoor sightseeing. Illustrative photo.
Traveling to Seoul
Jessner peel in Seoul for international patients
A Jessner peel takes about 30 minutes, but the visible peeling that follows lasts about 3–7 days. If you are visiting Seoul, plan the peel early in your trip so the peeling happens while you are here, and avoid beach days or long hours outdoors straight after. For a short first visit, a lighter one- or two-coat peel is usually the sensible choice. Hommage Women's Clinic is in Gangnam, a short walk from Sinnonhyeon Station (Line 9 and Shinbundang Line).
What to bring and plan
- Your passport and a list of medicines and allergies, including aspirin, salicylates or resorcinol.
- Tell the clinic about recent isotretinoin, retinoids, waxing or laser.
- A wide-brimmed hat and broad-spectrum sunscreen for the days after.
- Message the clinic by WhatsApp, KakaoTalk or the contact form to book and arrange language support; send photos after you fly home if anything worries you.
Choosing well
How to choose a clinic for a Jessner peel in Seoul
Because a Jessner peel can be made deeper simply by adding coats, who applies it and how carefully matters. Use these questions at any clinic, including ours:
- Does a doctor decide the number of coats? Depth should follow your skin type and response.
- Do they start light on pigment-prone skin? A gradual series is often safer than one deep peel.
- Do they check allergies and cold-sore history? Aspirin, salicylate and resorcinol allergies rule it out.
- Do they ask about isotretinoin, retinoids and waxing? These affect timing.
- Is written aftercare provided? Sun protection and no-picking advice should be clear.
What affects the cost of a Jessner peel?
Cost depends on peel depth, the number of sessions in your series and whether other treatments such as extraction or prescription acne care are combined. Cosmetic chemical peels are not covered by Korea's National Health Insurance. You receive a written quote before treatment.
Hommage · Gangnam
Hommage Women's Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul
Your peel depth, schedule and quote are agreed before treatment. Illustrative photo.
Your visit
What to expect at your Jessner peel appointment
01
Skin assessment
Dr. Hwang reviews your acne, marks and skin type, plus medications, allergies, cold-sore history and recent treatments.
02
Preparation
Your skin is cleansed and degreased, and sensitive areas around the eyes, nose and mouth are protected.
03
Peel application
The solution is applied in measured coats while the doctor checks how your skin responds. Stinging eases within minutes.
04
Aftercare plan
Moisturizer and sunscreen go on, you receive written aftercare, and the timing of any next peel is agreed.
Your doctor
Dr. Hwang Seonhwa
Physician · Skin & Aesthetic Treatments
Dr. Hwang adjusts the number of Jessner coats session by session according to how your skin responded last time. For pigment-prone skin, Dr. Hwang usually starts light and builds gradually, with strict sun protection between peels.
Physician for face and skin procedures, including lifting, laser and skin-improvement treatments, planned around facial proportions and skin condition.
Jessner peel: frequently asked questions
Does a Jessner peel hurt?
A Jessner peel stings and feels hot for a few minutes after each coat, then the sensation fades. Most people rate it as uncomfortable rather than painful, and a handheld fan helps. Numbing cream is not normally used. Afterward, the skin can feel tight and slightly sore, similar to mild sunburn, for a day or two.
How many Jessner peels do I need?
Most people benefit from a series of about 3–6 peels spaced 2–4 weeks apart, especially for acne and dark marks. A single peel gives a noticeable refresh, but tone and breakouts usually improve more over a series. Your doctor will set the number and depth after seeing how your skin responds.
How long do Jessner peel results last?
Results from a series often last several months, but new acne marks, sun exposure and hormonal changes can bring back uneven tone over time. Daily sunscreen, a suitable home routine and occasional maintenance peels help keep the improvement. Acne-prone skin may also need ongoing medical treatment.
Can I wear makeup after a Jessner peel?
Wait at least 24–48 hours, and longer if your skin feels raw or is actively peeling. Once the skin is comfortable, use gentle, non-comedogenic products applied with clean brushes, and remove them carefully. Do not use makeup to rub or scrub peeling skin.
Is a Jessner peel safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No, a Jessner peel is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains salicylic acid and resorcinol, and elective peels are usually postponed. Safer options for that time can be discussed with your doctor. Learn more about skin changes during pregnancy and other hormonal shifts.
Can foreigners get a Jessner peel in Seoul?
Yes. International patients and foreign residents can book an appointment at Hommage Clinic and should bring a passport for registration. Plan for several days of peeling and avoid beach or sun-heavy activities straight after. Please contact us before your visit to arrange language support.
What are the ingredients in a Jessner peel?
Jessner's solution traditionally contains 14% each of salicylic acid, lactic acid and resorcinol in an alcohol base. Salicylic acid targets oily pores, lactic acid loosens dead cells, and resorcinol boosts the peeling effect. Some clinics use modified formulas.
Why does my skin look bronze or yellow after a Jessner peel?
A slight bronze or yellowish tint on the first day is a normal part of the peel and fades as the skin sheds over the following days. Contact the clinic if you notice blisters, oozing or patches that keep darkening after peeling has finished.
Is a Jessner peel stronger than a salicylic acid peel?
Usually, yes. A salicylic acid peel stays superficial, while a Jessner peel can be built up coat by coat to a superficial-to-medium depth with more visible peeling. Many people start with a salicylic peel or a light Jessner and move up only if needed.
Can a Jessner peel remove acne scars?
Is a Jessner peel safe for Asian or darker skin?
It can be, when started gently. Asian and darker skin is more prone to dark marks after inflammation, so the doctor usually begins with one or two coats, builds up gradually and insists on strict sun protection for at least two weeks after each peel.
Can I have a Jessner peel if I get cold sores?
Yes, but tell the doctor. A peel can trigger a cold sore, so antiviral medicine may be recommended before a deeper peel. If you have an active cold sore, the peel is postponed until it has healed.
How soon can I exercise after a Jessner peel?
Avoid intense exercise, saunas and heavy sweating until the peeling has finished, usually within about a week. Gentle walking is fine. Sweat and heat can irritate freshly peeled skin.
References
Sources used for this page, reviewed by Dr. Hwang Seonhwa. Read our editorial and medical review policy.
- Reynolds RV, Yeung H, Cheng CE, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2024. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2023.12.017
- American Academy of Dermatology acne guideline summary, including insufficient evidence for chemical peels and the conditional recommendation for topical salicylic acid. Dermatology Times , 2024. Summary
- Chen X, Wang S, Yang M, Li L. Chemical peels for acne vulgaris: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials. BMJ Open. 2018;8(4):e019607. PubMed · Full text
This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. Illustrations are original works of Hommage Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul; photos marked illustrative are not of patients.
Related peels and skin treatments
Salicylic Acid Peel
A gentler, oil-soluble superficial peel for acne-prone and oily skin.
Chemical Peels for Acne
How different peels fit into acne treatment, from breakouts to marks.
Pigment Correction Peel
Peels aimed at dark spots and uneven tone, chosen for pigment-prone skin.
TCA CROSS Treatment
Focal high-strength TCA for individual ice-pick and narrow boxcar scars.
Laser Carbon Peel
A low-downtime laser facial for oily skin, congested pores and dullness.
Skin Care for Hormonal Changes
How pregnancy, PCOS, menopause and the pill affect acne and pigmentation.
Choose the right peel depth for your skin
Book a skin assessment with Dr. Hwang Seonhwa in Gangnam to see whether a Jessner peel, a gentler peel or another treatment suits your acne or marks.
Hommage Clinic · 4F, Building A, 509 Gangnam-daero, Seoul (near Sinnonhyeon Station) · Mon & Fri 10:00–20:00 · Tue–Thu 10:00–19:00 · Sat 10:00–15:00