When Topical Products Have Done All They Can

Serums and daily exfoliants can only work on the very outermost layer of skin, which is part of why persistent dullness, rough texture, or lingering discoloration often don't respond, no matter how good your routine is. A chemical peel works differently: rather than gently sloughing off a few surface cells, it uses a targeted solution to encourage a more complete turnover of the skin's outer layers. Our Chevy Chase office offers a range of peel strengths specifically so treatment can be matched to what your skin actually needs, not a generic, one-size-fits-all approach.

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What Is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel applies a carefully formulated acid solution to the skin, which breaks down the bonds holding onto damaged or dull surface cells and encourages them to shed over the following days. What emerges underneath is typically smoother, more evenly toned skin, since the renewal process also tends to improve the appearance of fine lines, sun damage, and lingering acne marks along the way. Peels exist on a spectrum from light, requiring virtually no downtime, to deep, involving a more significant recovery in exchange for a more dramatic result, and your provider will match the strength to your specific goals during your consultation.

The Benefits of Chemical Peels

  • A True Reset for Texture: By removing a more complete layer of damaged cells, peels address roughness and dullness more thoroughly than surface exfoliation alone.
  • Multi-Concern Coverage: Depending on the formulation, a single peel can improve fine lines, discoloration, and acne scarring simultaneously.
  • A Spectrum of Intensity: Because peels range from light to deep, there's an appropriate option whether you want zero downtime or are ready for a more significant result.
  • Encourages Genuine Renewal: Peels work by prompting your skin to generate fresh cells, not by masking the surface temporarily.
  • A Strong Complement to Other Treatments: Peels often fit naturally alongside other nonsurgical treatments as part of a broader skincare strategy.
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Are You a Candidate for a Chemical Peel?

Chemical peels tend to suit patients whose primary concerns exist on the surface level of the skin. You may be a good candidate for a chemical peel in Chevy Chase if:

  • You're dealing with dullness, uneven texture, or lingering discoloration
  • Sun damage or old acne marks bother you more than deeper structural concerns
  • You're willing to follow specific aftercare instructions, particularly around sun protection
  • You understand that deeper peels involve more visible downtime in exchange for more dramatic results

Our Chevy Chase team will assess your skin closely during a consultation to recommend the peel strength and formulation best matched to your goals.

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The Chemical Peel Process What to Expect

Initial Consultation

Your provider will evaluate your skin type and specific concerns to recommend the appropriate peel strength and formulation.

Personalized Treatment Plan

Based on your consultation, your provider will determine whether a single treatment or a series of peels is best suited to your goals.

Treatment Day

The chosen peel solution is carefully applied to the skin, left on for a specific duration, and then neutralized or removed according to its strength.

Aftercare Guidance

You'll receive detailed instructions for post-peel skincare, including sun protection, to support healing and results.

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Your Results

What you experience afterward depends heavily on which peel you chose. A lighter peel might mean subtle, sandpaper-like flaking for a day or two before smoother skin emerges.

In comparison, a deeper peel can involve more pronounced peeling over a week or longer as it works through a more substantial layer of tissue. Whichever path you take, your provider will walk you through exactly what to expect day by day so nothing about the process feels unexpected.

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Why Choose Congressional Plastic Surgery in Chevy Chase?

  • Expert Chemical Peel Providers You Can Trust: Our Chevy Chase team, including our licensed esthetician, provides access to the most effective chemical peel treatments for all skin types and concerns.
  • A Thorough, Individualized Skin Analysis: Our providers carefully evaluate your skin before recommending the ideal peel formulation and strength for your specific needs.
    Convenient Chevy Chase Location: Our office offers easy access for patients throughout Maryland and the greater Washington, DC, area seeking expert chemical peel treatments.
  • Backed by Established Expertise: With Dr. Chang's double board certification and years of clinical experience, our team brings the same precision to chemical peels as we do to every treatment we provide.

Chemical Peels Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear makeup right after a chemical peel, or does my skin need to be bare?

This depends on peel strength; lighter peels may allow makeup shortly after, while deeper peels typically require a period of bare skin to heal properly. Your provider will give you specific timing guidance.

Is it normal for my skin to feel tight after a peel, even before any visible peeling starts?

Yes, a tight or slightly taut sensation is common in the hours following treatment, generally easing as your skin adjusts over the first day or so.

How do I know if I should start with a light peel or if I actually need something stronger?

This comes down to your specific concerns and goals. Your provider will assess your skin directly and often recommends starting conservatively, especially for first-time peel patients.

Are peels safe to do regularly, like every few months, or is that too frequent?

Lighter peels are often incorporated into a regular skincare maintenance schedule, sometimes every four to six weeks, while deeper peels are typically spaced out much further apart.

Will a chemical peel help with melasma, or does that need a different approach?

Certain peels can help improve melasma, though this condition can also be sensitive to treatment and sometimes requires a carefully tailored approach. Your provider can discuss whether peels are appropriate for your specific case.

What's the actual difference in downtime between a peel done here versus an at-home peel kit?

Professional-strength peels use higher concentrations than what's legally available for at-home use, which is part of why in-office peels can achieve more noticeable results, along with a correspondingly longer recovery in some cases.

Testimonials What Our Patients Say

5 out of 5 stars

I honestly could not have had a better experience.

"I went to see Doctor Chang for a lip augmentation about a month ago. I have always had a really full bottom lip, but a super thin upper lip with not much definition. Doctor Cha...

"I went to see Doctor Chang for a lip augmentation about a month ago. I have always had a really full bottom lip, but a super thin upper lip with not much definition. Doctor Chang used Juvederm Ultra to make very subtle changes to my upper lip, making it more defined. My cupid's bow is now visible! My lips look SO natural that many people do not even notice unless I tell them, which in my opinion is a good thing! Doctor Chang is amazing; he made the procedure painless and actually enjoyable/fun. Prior to this, I was very nervous to try lip fillers. After meeting with Doctor Chang, I realized I was nervous over nothing! I honestly could not have had a better experience."

Kelee L.
5 out of 5 stars

I'm OBSESSED!!!

"I'm OBSESSED!!!! Obsessed with Dr. Chang, nurse Kelly, all the office staff, but MY OH MY the RESULTS!!! Dr. Chang is a true artist! I've been telling everyone I know about him...

"I'm OBSESSED!!!! Obsessed with Dr. Chang, nurse Kelly, all the office staff, but MY OH MY the RESULTS!!! Dr. Chang is a true artist! I've been telling everyone I know about him and his awesome work. You won't find a better surgeon, even in Beverly Hills! He can literally give liquid facelifts with Botox, does perfect contouring with filler, and is very conservative with his approach. You know you are in the best hands with him and his caring staff. Nurse Kelly is always available to answer questions on recovery, and you know she's seen it all, so she will even give you sound advice on the latest and greatest in products and procedures. Let me also say that I am in pharmaceutical sales, I am in and out of every single plastic surgery office all over the DMV, and this is the top practice in the entire area. The office is always busy, with super high standards, only offers the best products, and has the best-in-class surgeons. They are THE best. I would only ever trust these doctors, and Dr. Chang is ‘IT’ for me!”

Monica J.
5 out of 5 stars

Love my lips!

"Love my lips! Dr. Chang was very attentive to what I wanted and made sure I was comfortable throughout the whole experience! His staff was welcoming, and all around, they took ...

"Love my lips! Dr. Chang was very attentive to what I wanted and made sure I was comfortable throughout the whole experience! His staff was welcoming, and all around, they took great care of me. I will definitely be coming back to get my lips touched up and recommend his practice to friends!"

Alexandra R.
5 out of 5 stars

Highly recommend!

"Dr. Chang used Voluma to augment my chin. The projection helped to harmonize my face and helped my side profile look even and natural. The filler was painless, the chin was a b...

"Dr. Chang used Voluma to augment my chin. The projection helped to harmonize my face and helped my side profile look even and natural. The filler was painless, the chin was a bit tender for a day or so, but nothing after that. Best investment for my face so far. Dr. Chang was very professional and made the whole appointment very relaxing and fun. Highly recommend!"

Atilla H.
5 out of 5 stars

It’s been a great experience working with him.

"I visited Dr. Chang to have my tear troughs (under eyes) filled. I was super scared of the potential bruising and that everyone would know I had “work done” because of it. Than...

"I visited Dr. Chang to have my tear troughs (under eyes) filled. I was super scared of the potential bruising and that everyone would know I had “work done” because of it. Thanks to Dr. Chang’s gentle injections and use of numbing cream that also helped prevent bruising, I had only two little tiny dot bruises that were unnoticeable with makeup. I now look much more rested, and I’m feeling so confident. Dr. Chang started slow with just one syringe of Volbella and two weeks later with a second. This allowed us to see where I needed more after some swelling went down, so as not to overdo it. I’m really happy with the results. I’ve also had Dr. Chang do some mid-cheek sculpting with filler, and he’s done an amazing job keeping it natural but noticeable. It’s been a great experience working with him."

Melanie C.
5 out of 5 stars

I had an amazing experience with Dr. Chang!

"I had an amazing experience with Dr. Chang! I came to his office wanting to have lip injections. Initially, I was very nervous to have this procedure done because I had a bad e...

"I had an amazing experience with Dr. Chang! I came to his office wanting to have lip injections. Initially, I was very nervous to have this procedure done because I had a bad experience at a different clinic in the past. However, Dr. Chang was very patient and understanding, and he didn't pressure me to do the procedure if I wasn't ready. I talked with him about my concerns and also about what results I wanted; he was very friendly, personable, and really listened to me. I ended up having 1ml of Juvederm injected into my top and bottom lips combined; the procedure felt very relaxed - Dr. Chang really took his time and made sure my lips looked great and that they were symmetrical (which I appreciated). Afterward, he told me to email him the next day to let him know how I was feeling, which I thought was really kind. It's now been two weeks since having the lip injections, and I really love the results! My lips look very natural, symmetrical, with just the right amount of plumpness. I will definitely be going back to Dr. Chang for any other cosmetic procedures. He and his office staff are great, and I had a wonderful experience!"

Jordan M.
5 out of 5 stars

I will definitely return!

"Dr. Chang did an excellent job with my Botox treatment. I had previously had trouble with drooping eyebrows from a different physician, but Dr. Chang took his time to make sure...

"Dr. Chang did an excellent job with my Botox treatment. I had previously had trouble with drooping eyebrows from a different physician, but Dr. Chang took his time to make sure it turned out perfectly. I will definitely return."

Kerry M.
5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Chang is the best of the best.

"I am so thankful that I found Dr. Chang through Yelp. His ratings were all outstanding, and now I know why. I was immediately greeted by smiling faces and a friendly gentleman ...

"I am so thankful that I found Dr. Chang through Yelp. His ratings were all outstanding, and now I know why. I was immediately greeted by smiling faces and a friendly gentleman at the front desk. After a short wait, I was escorted to my room by a nurse who was absolutely the sweetest! I felt so comfortable, and all of my nervous thoughts (first timer here) just went away. After a couple of minutes, Dr. Chang came in, and we discussed what I wanted. Talk about professional and extremely personable, I cannot imagine a better experience. I'd like to point out that I didn't really have a specific look in mind - my only expectation was that I wanted to look natural, so I left it with Dr. Chang to work his magic. He guided me through my Botox and Juvederm injections and never once left me wondering about the procedure, next steps, or how to care for my new "work". It has been two weeks since I was in the office, and I cannot express my gratitude for Dr. Chang and all of his staff. It's amazing how such a minor procedure can boost your confidence. Even considering another Plastic Surgeon makes me fearful, Dr. Chang is the best of the best.”

Devon D.
5 out of 5 stars

Best decision ever!!!

"Best decision ever!!! I recently got Juvederm lip fillers for the first time 2 weeks ago, and I absolutely LOVE them! Dr. Chang answered all my questions about the procedure du...

"Best decision ever!!! I recently got Juvederm lip fillers for the first time 2 weeks ago, and I absolutely LOVE them! Dr. Chang answered all my questions about the procedure during my consultation. Two days later, I had my lip augmentation. I must admit the results were pretty AMAZING, and I look forward to seeing Dr. Chang for my next procedure. :)"

London B.
5 out of 5 stars

I am extremely happy with it!

"For my first time experiencing Botox, I am extremely happy with it! I thought that Dr. Chang took the time to sit and discuss things with me to ensure I felt comfortable, as we...

"For my first time experiencing Botox, I am extremely happy with it! I thought that Dr. Chang took the time to sit and discuss things with me to ensure I felt comfortable, as well as the fact that he did not push or pressure me into anything at all. The nurse, Kelly, got to know me, and I felt genuinely comfortable in the office. I will definitely be back in a couple of months, and I will also look into other fillers or peels. Thank you!"

Hillary A.
5 out of 5 stars

I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Chang and his staff.

"I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Chang and his staff. I was nervous about my first time getting Botox, but I immediately felt at ease upon entering the office and being gr...

"I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Chang and his staff. I was nervous about my first time getting Botox, but I immediately felt at ease upon entering the office and being greeted by the receptionist. She even accommodated me showing up on the wrong day for my follow-up appointment with no questions asked. Dr. Chang answered all of my questions and made me feel completely comfortable throughout the process. I am extremely happy with the results of my Botox in my forehead - smooth, but still natural looking. I would highly recommend Dr. Chang to anyone seeking similar services!"

Jessica J.
5 out of 5 stars

I recommend Dr. Chang !

"I got my lip augmentation done with Dr.Chang. It was an amazing experience. He has a very good attitude, was very nice to me, explained the whole process exactly, and was profe...

"I got my lip augmentation done with Dr.Chang. It was an amazing experience. He has a very good attitude, was very nice to me, explained the whole process exactly, and was professional and open to my questions. Besides that, the atmosphere in the entire office is very nice and pleasant. I recommend Dr. Chang !"

Anna L.
5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Chang is the best.

"Dr. Chang is the best. I have had my Botox and lip fillers done by him. I love the results because they look natural. I feel beautiful every day. Thank you, Dr. Chang."

Nikki B.
5 out of 5 stars

I wish I had come in years ago

"Dr. Chang removed two moles from my face, and I could not be happier with the experience or the results. I am extremely fair-skinned—small acne marks can last for years—but jus...

"Dr. Chang removed two moles from my face, and I could not be happier with the experience or the results. I am extremely fair-skinned—small acne marks can last for years—but just a few months out from the procedure, and I have to look closely to find the tiny scars. The front office is well-run and pleasant, and the nurses put everyone at ease. Dr. Chang himself is among the nicest doctors you will ever meet - confident in his perceptions and medical advice, but not the least bit egotistical. I wish I had come in years ago (and I will certainly be back)!"

Erin T.
5 out of 5 stars

I am so glad I found Dr. Chang.

"I was very nervous to have any kind of filler used on my face. Dr. Chang's office made this experience about as wonderful as it could be. When I emailed to make a consultation ...

"I was very nervous to have any kind of filler used on my face. Dr. Chang's office made this experience about as wonderful as it could be. When I emailed to make a consultation appointment, I was met with an immediate reply, which was quickly transferred into a consultation. Upon my visit, I was greeted immediately and waited hardly any time at all. Finally, Dr. Chang's demeanor and attitude while seeing me were absolutely awesome. He treated me very respectfully and had a great sense of humor. I really enjoyed visiting with him during my consultation. So I decided to go ahead and get my lips filled after my consult during the same visit. It was great that they scheduled enough time to do that. So far, my lips are looking amazing, and I could not be more thrilled with the result. I'm hooked. DC is a big, intimidating area... finding professionals you enjoy working with is a big deal... especially for someone from a small town like myself. There are dozens of plastic surgeons in the area... but I am so glad I found Dr. Chang. I'm happy to support his practice and will definitely be referring anyone and everyone who asks to him."

Megan M.
5 out of 5 stars

I couldn't be happier with the end result.

"This is not my first experience with Dr. Chang and certainly not my last. I wouldn't want anyone else to touch my lips. Dr. Chang has an impeccable eye for achieving the perfec...

"This is not my first experience with Dr. Chang and certainly not my last. I wouldn't want anyone else to touch my lips. Dr. Chang has an impeccable eye for achieving the perfect aesthetic look. He takes into consideration my goals for the procedure and treats me with professionalism and respect. Dr. Chang used 2 syringes of Volbella. I experienced less swelling with this product compared to products I've used in the past. The product looks smooth and natural on my lips. I experienced minimal to no bruising and went to dinner the same day I had the procedure done. Dr. Chang's technique is almost painless; I only experienced some mild discomfort. I couldn't be happier with the end result. I love the way my lips look, and I love Dr. Chang."

Maurey F.
5 out of 5 stars

I will definitely be back

Dr.r Chang is amazing. It was my first time ever doing any procedure, so I was very nervous about getting lip filler,s but Dr. Chang made me feel very relaxed and took the time ...

Dr.r Chang is amazing. It was my first time ever doing any procedure, so I was very nervous about getting lip filler,s but Dr. Chang made me feel very relaxed and took the time to explain everything to me. He was very patient with me since I had a lot of questions and concerns. Even after the procedure, I emailed him questions, and he was always so quick to respond. I will definitely be back for fillers or any other procedures I need in the future, and will be recommending him to all my family and friends!"

Dee L.
5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Chang is the best!

"Dr. Chang is the best! I went to his office yesterday for lip augmentation, and I am very, very happy with the results! I was nervous and panicked like everyone else for the fi...

"Dr. Chang is the best! I went to his office yesterday for lip augmentation, and I am very, very happy with the results! I was nervous and panicked like everyone else for the first time, but Dr. Chang made sure he walked me through everything. He knows what he is doing, and he is very knowledgeable. On top of that, he will be honest with you, but will do exactly what you want. The nurse and the rest of his staff were professional, nice, polite, and provided great customer service. I love my lips; it was painless, and I will definitely go back to visit Dr. Chang again."

Blanka B.
5 out of 5 stars

If I could give 100 stars, I would!!

"Alicia, the esthetician is AMAZING! She gave me, hands down, the best microdermabrasion treatment I've ever experienced! She's so knowledgeable about anything skin-related that...

"Alicia, the esthetician is AMAZING! She gave me, hands down, the best microdermabrasion treatment I've ever experienced! She's so knowledgeable about anything skin-related that it instantly puts you at ease. She gave me a regimen to follow after the treatment and a ton of information about keeping my skin looking great. :) Dr. Chang is also amazing. I felt very comfortable after the consultation, and my new lips look INCREDIBLE! Cannot recommend this place enough!! If I could give 100 stars, I would!!"

Rhonda E.
5 out of 5 stars

I’m super happy with the results!

"I met Dr. Jenny today. Being a years-long patient of Dr. Chang, it was a change for me to see a new face. She was warm, had great bedside manner, and listened to all my concern...

"I met Dr. Jenny today. Being a years-long patient of Dr. Chang, it was a change for me to see a new face. She was warm, had great bedside manner, and listened to all my concerns and requests. She patiently answered all my questions. She offered excellent solutions and more than anything - I felt almost nothing — wait for it — getting lip filler. We did Botox on frontalis, globella, dao, lip flip, and crows feet. She had a very gentle hand. I’m super happy with the results and so glad to see a woman surgeon killing it here at Congressional Plastic Surgery!" 

Beth S.
5 out of 5 stars

Highly recommend Dr. Jenny and this practice!

I saw Dr. Jenny today for Botox and she is wonderful! Great bedside manner, expertise, and injections. Highly recommend her and this practice!

A. L.
5 out of 5 stars

I will be back for more procedures with Dr. Jenny

I made an appointment with dr Jenny today for lip filling for the first time. She was amazing - first I didn’t feel the pain that people talk about during the procedure. I had v...

I made an appointment with dr Jenny today for lip filling for the first time. She was amazing - first I didn’t feel the pain that people talk about during the procedure. I had very small lips she made them very natural and just the way I wanted them. Now I have some noticeable lips. And she explained to you everything before the procedure.
I will be back for more procedures with her.  I was recommended by a friend that comes hers

Rita G.

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