Chemical peels are skin treatments used to improve the skin’s overall appearance and can help to improve a number of common skin conditions on the face, neck, chest, or hands. Essentially chemical peels work through a chemical solution that is applied to the treated area, causing it to exfoliate so that the top layer of old, damaged skin peels or sloughs away.
Specific Treatments
As a general skin rejuvenation treatment, almost anyone can benefit from the effects of a chemical peel, but they are also used to treat the following specific conditions:
- Acne scars
- Age spots and freckles
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Hyperpigmentation
- Melasma
- Scars
- Sun damaged skin
- Rough-feeling skin
Chemical peels generally work best on light-haired, fair-skinned patients, and are not recommended for skin with infections, wounds, sunburns, or for patients with a variety of other conditions. Patients must consult with a professional dermatologist to determine an appropriate treatment plan.
Treatments and Recovery
Chemical peels are outpatient procedures that are performed in-office. After the area to be treated is cleansed thoroughly, the physician will apply the chemical solution quickly and evenly, watching the skin carefully the peel can be removed at the right time.
Depending on the patient’s specific needs and desired results, the frequency and intensity of the treatments can vary greatly, but most patients require multiple treatments to achieve the optimal results.
