This guide is general information, not medical advice. Your provider should assess you and explain the options and risks that apply to you.
What it is
A chemical peel applies an acid solution that removes outer layers of skin. Peels range from light, which affect only the surface, to medium and deep. Laser resurfacing removes or heats layers of skin with a laser; fractional lasers treat a grid of tiny columns and leave the skin between them untouched.
Clinics offer these treatments for concerns such as uneven texture or tone and fine lines. Deeper treatments mean longer healing.
Who can perform it in Ontario
Light peels are often done by medical estheticians, in settings that public health inspects as a personal service. Medium and deep peels and ablative laser resurfacing carry more risk and are usually done by, or under the direction of, a physician.
Ontario guidance doesn’t settle whether every deeper treatment involves a controlled act, so ask who will perform yours and who is responsible for your care if something goes wrong.
Typical GTA price range
- Typical range
- C$150–3,500 per session
- Sample range from GTA research, November 2026.
- Starting prices on Aurayla now
- C$145–2,600 per session
- Clinic-reported, from 8 clinics.
Clinics price peels and resurfacing per session. In the GTA, light and medium chemical peels are often around C$150 to C$300 a session, and fractional CO2 laser resurfacing around C$1,200 to C$3,500 a session (sample ranges from November 2026 research).
Sessions and maintenance
Light peels are often repeated as a series. Deeper peels and laser resurfacing may be a single session, with recovery that can take from several days to a few weeks. Ask how much time off you might need.
Common side effects and risks
Your provider should explain the risks that apply to you. Commonly reported effects include:
- Redness, peeling and tightness while the skin heals.
- Greater sensitivity to the sun for a while afterwards.
- Less commonly, a cold-sore flare-up, infection or changes in skin colour; with deeper treatments, scarring.
Tell your provider if you get cold sores or have had a skin reaction before.
Questions to ask at your consultation
- How deep is this peel or laser treatment, and how long is the recovery?
- Who will perform it, and who is responsible for my care afterwards?
- Is it suited to my skin tone?
- What sun protection and aftercare will I need?
- What is the total cost, including the consultation fee and any follow-up visits?
A clinic that welcomes these questions is easier to trust. You can take this list with you.