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Chemical Skin Peels


	Chemical Peels works by dissolving old skin cells
	Solutions can vary in strength
	Depth and strength may vary based on concentration and length of application
	New skin emerges as the old is removed by the chemical application

What is a Chemical Skin Peel?

"Chemical peel" is a general classification for a number of chemical treatments used to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. Typically during a chemical peel nothing actually "peels" off. A chemical solution is applied to the skin, and works by dissolving the upper layers of the skin. As the tissue is dissolved, a wound is created on the skin which stimulates the body's healing response, causing new tissue to emerge. The depth and strength of the 'peel' varies based upon the strength of the chemicals used and the length of time the solution is applied.

Some chemical peels are so strong as to be able to remove the whole surface of the skin, in a manner similar to CO2 or Erbium lasers. These are the deepest forms of chemical peeling, which, in my opinion, are not used as often as they had been. These forms of peels have generally been replaced by laser treatment as laser provides a greater and more precise level of control to the practitioner. Most peels today are less destructive and more superficial.

Type of Peels

There are a variety of different types of chemical skin peels, as there are a variety of chemicals used, each with their own properties. Phenol peels consist of a deeper solution which may remove the upper layers of the skin. TCA (Trichloroacetic acid) peels are another common peel which can vary in concentration. Glycolic acid and alpha hydroxy acid peels are also quite common, often sold for in-home use in lesser-strength concentrations than you can receive from a physician.

Results

With a chemical peel you get some tightening of the skin, you get improvements of pre-cancerous and brown spots, and a general resurfacing of the skin.

For more information see: Chemical Peels Comparison Chart, Pre-Treatment Questions, & Choosing a Physician

Locate a Chemical Peels Specialist near you to answer questions about your
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Last Modified: October 22, 2007

Frequently Asked Questions
	What is a Chemical Peel?	What is TCA Peel (Trichloroacetic Acid)?
	What can a Chemical Peel Treat?	What are Phenol Peels?
	Does a Chemical Peel Hurt?	What is an Erbium Laser?
	How much does a Chemical Peel Cost?	What is a CO2 laser?
	What are the Recovery Times?	What is Hypopigmentation?
	How long does it take?	What is Hyperpigmentation?
	Are there possible side effects?	What is the Stratum Corneum?
	What are Alpha Hydroxy Acid Peels?	What is the Epidermis?
	What are Glycolic Acid Peels?	What are Keratolytics?

The information contained in the above article is purely for educational purposes and is not intended to provide any medical advice. Always consult with your physician before having any medical procedure performed.

Chemical Skin Peels

What is a Chemical Skin Peel?

Type of Peels

Results

Frequently Asked Questions