Chemical Peels

"Chemical peel" is a term applied to a variety of different treatments. Chemical peels vary from very mild alpha hydroxy peels to moderate depth TCA peels, to deeper phenol peels, and there are a number of different peels along this spectrum. Every patient is different and so the options available may be different from patient to patient.

In general, a chemical peel involves treatment of the skin of the face, neck, chest, hands, or other area, by applying a liquid agent that removes superficial skin cells, thereby giving the complexion a fresher, more youthful appearance. In patients with very mild aging or discoloration of the skin a series of very mild peels may be recommended. For more severe sun damage or facial wrinkles a deeper peel might be recommended. Recovery times depend upon the depth of the peel and range from no down time, to a week or more. Most chemical peels are performed in our office and require no anesthesia.