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Find a Chemical Peel
Specialist
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 | | Our mission is to provide the public unbiased, scientifically accurate information about Chemical Peels, including the different acids, concentrations, risks, and their applications. The information published on ChemicalPeel.org is written and provided by some of America’s foremost dermatologists and skin surgery experts. | | >>More About the Patient's Guide | |
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In my practice I often use chemical peels to augment almost any other treatment I perform as it is a good way to remove the dead skin cells and improve the efficacy of other treatments. I also use chemical peels for photo-aging, such as age spots and wrinkles. Chemical peels are effective for improving acne and modest acne scarring. They are also very effective at exfoliating and smoothing the skin, as well as improving the texture of the skin. |
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Another benefit of using chemical peels is that they can be used not only on the face, but on the chest and back as well. I almost exclusively use the alpha-hydroxy acid peels, glycolic acid peels and their relatives.
Does Treatment Hurt? During a TCA or Phenol peel the chemicals act as an anesthetic so there is little pain. During alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peels, which are milder than TCA or Phenol peels, the only feeling is a slight stinging sensation during the treatment. Deeper peels may have redness and recovery time may last for over a week. Generally with lighter peels like AHA or glycolic acid peels, there is little to no downtime.
How Long Does it Take?Generally a chemical peel will not take more than 20 minutes. The skin is cleansed and a chemical solution is applied. The formula of the solution may be adjusted by the provider based on how aggressive the treatment is. A stronger solution will remove more tissue and generally have greater recovery time. Your provider will examine you and discuss your expectations for treatment. Based upon how aggressive the treatment goals are, the treatment time may vary.
Recovery TimeThe recovery time for a patient who has had a chemical peel will depend on the type and strength of the peel they've had. For example, the common alpha-hydroxy and glycolic acid peels have little or no recovery time. There may be some slight pinkness to the skin, but that usually fades rapidly.
With the higher concentration peels, such as TCA or Phenol peels, you can have some peeling and irritation for a few days afterward. Very aggressive peels with very high concentrations can be more problematic. The post-treatment effects and recovery times can be similar to a total skin resurfacing with a carbon dioxide laser. Recovery from an extremely powerful chemical peel can take more than a week, requiring wound care. So the recovery time will vary depending on the type of peel, ranging from no recovery or downtime, to a week or more of downtime. You will have to discuss the strength of the peel and recovery time with your provider prior to treatment. |
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Find a Chemical Peel Specialist
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Aesthetician Nicole Dresnin discusses the treatment process for a chemical peel
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