The blue chemical peel that gave Tamra Judge a “Smurfette” moment after her latest facelift isn’t exactly a new trend. Once a staple of the 1990s, the Blue Peel is back and its iconic hue is stirring curiosity in the skin-care world again. Known for its distinctive cerulean color, this peel is touted for treating acne, pigmentation and sun damage and boosting collagen repair. But after falling out of favor, it’s now resurfacing as a go-to solution for skin rejuvenation. So, is the Blue Peel really worth the hype—and is it safe?
We consulted top skin experts to break down everything Blue Peel and whether it’s a treatment worth considering today.
Featured Experts
- Dr. Mary Lupo is a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans
- Dr. Igor Chapik is a board-certified dermatologist based in Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Dr. Carlos Wambier is a board-certified dermatologist based in South Kingstown, RI
- Dr. Brenda Dintiman is a board-certified dermatologist based in Vienna, VA
Why does the Blue Peel have its signature color?
What makes this peel stand out from the rest isn’t just its history—it’s the color. At its core, the Blue Peel is a type of TCA (trichloroacetic acid) peel that exfoliates to reveal smoother, clearer and younger-looking skin. According to New Orleans dermatologist Mary Lupo, MD, the original Blue Peel was a proprietary treatment introduced around 30 years ago. It was primarily used by plastic surgeons’ assistants to standardize the process and ensure consistent results. “I always did my own TCA peels and knew what to look for, so I didn’t need it,” explains Dr. Lupo.
Fort Lauderdale, FL dermatologist Igor Chapik, MD, adds that the distinctive blue color allowed practitioners to see where the peel had been applied evenly and when to stop the process. “The color change indicated the endpoint of the peel, preventing overexposure,” he says. This color coding made it easier for less-experienced technicians to apply the peel safely.
Is the Obagi Blue Peel worth it?
The Obagi Blue Peel ($149) is a well-known version of this treatment, but not every dermatologist is convinced it’s necessary. South Kingstown, RI dermatologist Carlos Wambier, MD, says it’s a high-end version of what many doctors offer. “The Blue Peel is just simple TCA 35% with an Obagi price tag. It is imperative for dermatologists to understand how to peel vs buying products.” While it can be beneficial, there are other chemical peels available that may offer similar results without the same cost.
Why is everyone talking about the Blue Peel again?
Chemical peels are trending once again, thanks to its ability to address multiple skin concerns, including acne, pigmentation and texture irregularities. After a decline in popularity during the early 2000s, this throwback treatment is now trending for its targeted benefits.
Vienna, VA dermatologist Brenda Dintiman, MD, notes that today’s version may include a blend of salicylic acid, lactic acid and glycolic acid, in addition to the TCA, for improved results. “The blue color fades over days and you’ll see improved pigmentation, texture and collagen stimulation. In the right hands, it can be very helpful,” she says. She warns that the treatment can be dangerous if not applied or neutralized correctly. “If it’s left on too long, it can cause chemical burns.”
As more patients look for noninvasive ways to improve skin texture, the Blue Peel, with its long history and modified formulations, is becoming an appealing option.
What are the side effects?
Like all chemical peels, the Blue Peel comes with some risks. The most common side effects include redness, peeling and irritation. However, as Dr. Dintiman points out, improper use can lead to more severe issues, such as chemical burns or scarring. For this reason, it’s essential to have the procedure done by an experienced clinician.
How often can you get the Blue Peel?
The frequency of this treatment depends on your skin type and goals. Typically, a Blue Peel can be performed every six to 12 months, depending on the strength of the peel and how well your skin tolerates it. Like most peels, this treatment requires a proper recovery period to allow the skin to heal fully and reap the benefits of the exfoliation.
While the Blue Peel may be back in our lexicon, Dr. Wambier stresses the importance of knowing when to stop. She advises against home treatments that attempt to replicate professional results. “Peels have a natural endpoint,” he says. With anything, too much of a good thing can be bad and in this case, can lead to long-term skin damage. And then, you’ll really be blue.
