Chemical Peels have been used for decades to revitalize and resurface skin. They involve applying a chemical solution to remove the damaged outer layers of skin and reveal a younger, clearer, more radiant complexion.

Chemical Peels help remove skin discolorations such as freckles, age spots, and hyperpigmentation that results from chronic sun exposure. Texture irregularities such as fine lines and wrinkles will be less noticeable and your skin will look and feel softer, smoother, and more radiant. An individual’s skin type, degree of damage, and personal expectations will help determine which peel is most appropriate. Peels are classified by the depth of their effect on the skin.

Superficial Peels

Superficial peels penetrate to the level of the epidermis. Superficial peels exfoliate dead skin cells and give the skin a healthier glow and a radiant complexion. Specific conditions that may be improved by a superficial peel include: acne, actinic keratosis (pre-cancers), melasma, mottled skin pigmentation and shallow wrinkles.

Superficial peeling agents include Lactic, Glycolic, and Salicylic Acids. Recovery time is minimal. The patient may look like she has a mild sunburn which resolves in a few days. This is often called the “lunchtime peel.”

Medium Depth Peels

Medium Depth Peels penetrate through the epidermis to the upper dermis layer of the skin. Specific conditions that may be improved by a medium depth peel are: acne, actinic keratosis (pre-cancers), scars and mild to moderate facial wrinkling. Partial to complete removal of the epidermis can be obtained by a medium depth peel, stimulating skin healing mechanisms such as collagen remodeling that help obtain the desired result. Medium Depth peeling agents include tri-chloro-acetic acid (TCA) and modified Jessner’s solutions. Because they penetrate deeper, the side effects of a medium depth peel are greater and the recovery time longer. The skin may look like it has suffered a deep sunburn and care must be taken to avoid skin infection while healing.