A chemical peel is one of many treatments used to address cosmetic issues, such as acne scarring and signs of superficial aging, such as fine lines; uneven skin tone; a rough, dull complexion; and age spots. The results of a chemical peel can be modest or pronounced, depending on the type of acid used and strength of the solution applied to the skin.
About Chemical Peels
Chemical peels go by other names, says the American Academy of Dermatology, including chemexfoliation, dermapeel and "refreshing peel." The process by which this treatment works is as follows: A chemical solution is applied to the face and sometimes other parts of the body, such as the neck. The solution affects the outer layers of the skin, causing the skin to peel, after which a fresh, new layer of skin is exposed. Sometimes, a series of chemical peels may be recommended to get the best results from this type of treatment.
Superficial Chemical Peels
A mild acid solution, such as glycolic or salicylic acid, is used during a superficial chemical peel, says Mayo Clinic experts. This affects only the epidermis---the outermost layer of skin. These peels yield very subtle results, resulting in smoother, healthier skin that appears glowing and refreshed. Superficial chemical peels may also reduce the appearance of mild acne scarring, fine lines and irregular skin tone, says the Mayo Clinic.
Medium-Depth Peel
Stronger types of acid solutions, such as trichloroacetic acid, are used during a medium-depth peel to effect more noticeable changes, say Mayo Clinic experts. These peels, which reach both the epidermis and the dermis (the middle layer of the skin), may be appropriate for those with not only wrinkles, sun damage and irregular skin tones, but precancerous lesions. This type of chemical peel generally requires a bit of downtime, during which patients must bandage their skin for a few days.
Precautions
Mayo Clinic experts note that your doctor may ask you to use a prescription topical tretinoin, such as Retin-A, for several weeks before a chemical peel. The skin does need to be tended to carefully after treatment---the use of special ointments, creams and cleansers is often advised. After a chemical peel, the treated skin may appear pink or red for some time---in the case of a moderate peel, for up to four months. It may take some time before desired results of the peel are noticeable, says the Mayo Clinic---between several weeks and three months. The results of a chemical peel are unlikely to be lasting, says the American Academy of Dermatology, nor will this treatment prevent subsequent signs of aging. The best way to get longer-lasting results is to protect your skin from the sun.
Where to Get a Chemical Peel
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons points out that many states in the U.S. allow those without a medical license to administer chemical peels, but limit the chemical solutions used to certain strengths. It's best to seek the services of a trained physician, preferably one who has dealt extensively with cosmetic techniques used to enhance the skin, to get the type of treatment that's most appropriate for your skin.
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