Every year, millions of chemical peels are performed. Chemical peeling is a skin rejuvenation technique that has been used by physicians for decades. What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel is a skin rejuvenation technique designed to improve the appearance of the skin. During a chemical peel, a solution is applied to the skin surface, causing the surface cells to separate and peel off, thus allowing new skin to regenerate. The new skin is generally smoother and less wrinkled. Following a chemical peel, the skin color may also be more uniform.
What can a chemical peel accomplish?

Chemical peeling can be used to treat fine lines, especially around the eyes and mouth, and the wrinkles that result from sun damage. Chemical peeling can also be used to improve the skin’s color. Thus, sunspots, age spots, and the blotchiness that can occur with birth control pills or pregnancy (melasma) can all be improved by chemical peeling. In addition, the pre-cancerous skin changes that result from excessive sun exposure (actinic keratoses) can also be improved with a chemical peel. The procedure can also be used to improve acne and to treat mild scars that were caused by acne. A chemical peel will make dull appearing skin appear more vibrant and revitalized.

Who are the best candidates for a chemical peel?
The best candidates have fine lines and wrinkles with minimal skin sagging. They do not have severe skin excess. Patients with lighter complexions are preferred because there is less of a chance of the skin getting darker (known as hyperpigmentation) following the procedure.