As we age, the accumulated effects of sun exposure, pollutants, acne, and scarring can damage our skin and cause us to look older than we are. Such skin damage can be treated with a chemical peel, a non-invasive procedure designed to promote cell growth and produce smoother, clearer skin.
Chemical peels are also used to treat melasma (a skin condition characterized by irregularly shaped patches of brown skin commonly found on the face and neck), and pre-cancerous changes in the skin. Chemical peels can be performed on the face, neck, chest, arms, hands, and legs.
If you are considering a chemical peel, the following information will provide you with a good introduction to the procedure. For more detailed information about how the procedure may help you, we recommend that you consult a cosmetic surgeon.

Chemical peels can improve the appearance of:

• Fine lines
  
• Hyperpigmentation (skin discoloration or age spots)
  
• Enlarged pores due to an improper daily skincare regimen
  
• Light sun damage
  
• Light freckling
  
• Minimal scarring
  
• Treatment for the face, arms, legs, neck, chest and hands

 

Many types of chemical peels are on the market today. They may include just one chemical, such as glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid, or a combination of chemicals. These chemical solutions come in various strengths, and chemical peels are often classified as either a light or superficial peel, medium peel or deep peel.

Your doctor will choose the appropriate strength and combination of chemical agents based on the condition of your skin.

The Chemical Peel Procedure

Chemical peels are performed in a doctor's office. Deeper peels require anesthesia, but lighter peels often do not. The procedure takes about 15 minutes, then one to three weeks of recovery.

The number of treatments varies among individuals. Results can last up to several months.

During the procedure, the chemical solution is applied to the affected area (usually over the entire face). The chemical agents then work to separate and "peel" the outer surface layers of the skin. These layers often contain dead skin, which is removed during the process. The chemical agents stimulate the generation of new skin cells through the healing process.

During the application, you may experience a cool, warm or hot sensation that can last for 10 minutes or more. You may also feel a stinging sensation.

Recovery After Your Chemical Peel

To promote healing and reduce the risk of complications, follow the directions of the treatment provider very carefully. You'll likely be told to avoid all makeup and stay out of the sun for up to two weeks. You will need sunblock with an SPF of 15 or higher before you go outside.

Your skin's reaction to a chemical peel depends on many factors, including skin type and peel strength. During the first two weeks the skin may break out until it is renewed at the end of recovery. Additional reactions can be similar to sunburn.

Lighter peels can produce redness and skin peeling for a few days. Deeper chemical peels can result in blisters that burst, scabs or skin peeling for up to two weeks. This may be accompanied by swelling.

If you have a severe reaction, your doctor may prescribe ointments, creams, oral steroids or dressings. The treated skin is highly susceptible to injury, so take care of it.

The treatment provider will recommend a daily skincare regimen that is essential to the healing process. Be sure to follow the regimen and report any problems that result from the peel or from the new skincare regimen.

The aging process, including new fine lines and age spots, will continue over time. A maintenance program of chemical peels may be part of your long-term plan.

Additional or Alternative Treatments for Your Skin

Many skin conditions and imperfections can be treated with a chemical peel, but it can't improve the appearance of:

• Deep wrinkles
  
• Sagging, hollow or fatty skin
  
• Deep sun damage or freckling
  
• Deep scarring
  
• Other treatment options include facelift, brow lift, chin implant and cheek implants.

Laser skin resurfacing, Thermage, collagen injections, Botox and Restylane can be incorporated into your treatment plan as well. For deep scarring, laser scar removal may help.

Combination treatment plans tend to be the most successful strategy for aging skin.