Chemical Skin Peels

A “chemical peel” is a general classification for a number of chemical treatments, used to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. A chemical solution is applied to the skin and works by dissolving the upper layers of the skin. Typically during a chemical peel, nothing actually peels off. As tissue is dissolved, a wound creates on the skin, which stimulates the body’s healing response. This causes new tissue to emerge. Depth and strength of the peel varies, based upon the strength of the chemicals used and the length of time the solution is applied.

There are several types of “peels” and a variety of chemicals used. Some of these are Phenol peels, Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels, Jessner's solution, Glycolic acid and Alpha Hydroxy acid peels.

At Acacia Dermatology, our preferred chemical peel regimen utilizes Jessner's solution followed by TCA. This combination has the best results for the least amount of down time. Your skin will look refreshed and almost entirely normal in about a week.

With a chemical peel, you get some tightening of the skin, you get improvements of pre-cancerous and brown spots and a general resurfacing of the skin. Chemical peels are effective for improving acne and improves acne scarring. They are also very effective at exfoliating and smoothing the skin, as well as improving the texture of the skin. Another advantage of chemical peels is that they can be used on any part of the body; common areas are the face, neck, chest, arms and hands.

A chemical peel generally will take less than 20 minutes. First, the skin is cleansed and then one or more chemical solution is applied.

Recovery time for a patient who has had a chemical peel will depend the type and strength of the peel they’ve had. With the common alpha-hydroxy and glycolic acid peels have little or no recovery time. A slight pinkness to the skin may be present, but it usually fades rapidly. With the high concentration peels, you can have some peeling and irritation for a few days afterward.

We are happy to discuss your aesthetic options to see if a chemical peel is right for you. For a free consultation on chemical peels, call Acacia Dermatology & Laser Center at 855.269.7546 (toll-free) or 931.762.6545. 

We look forward to helping you look your very best in 2016 and beyond!