Chemical Skin Peels

Chemical peels have become very popular among those who suffer from acne, scarring, sun damaged skin, age spots, freckles, fine lines, rough skin and uneven pigmentation. Chemical peels are not limited to the face and can be performed on the neck, chest, hands, arms, shoulders and legs – just about anywhere!

Chemical peels are topically applied acids that aid in the restoration and rejuvenation of the skins surface by stimulating the production of new cells. They create an even and controlled shedding of several layers of the skin. Depending on the type and depth of the peel, few or many layers can be shed, allowing new layers to be exposed and creating a new fresh appearance.

Visible results:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles become less apparent
  • Skin tone evens out
  • Sun damage, age spots and freckling are diminished
  • Oily or acne-prone skin is improved
  • Enlarged pores may appear smaller
  • Superficial scars appear reduced
  • Skin appears healthier and more youthful


Glycolic Acid Peel

Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic acids, are the mildest of the peel formulas and produce light peels. These types of peels can provide smoother, brighter-looking skin for people who cannot spare the time to recover from a phenol or TCA peel. AHA peels may be used to treat fine wrinkling, areas of dryness, uneven pigmentation and acne. Various concentrations of an AHA may be applied weekly or at longer intervals to obtain the best result.

Trichloroacetic Acid Peel (TCA Peel)

Stronger than glycolic acid, TCA helps smooth the surface of the skin, refine pores and reduce fine lines through the stimulation of collagen. This peel process is a deep skin exfoliation that also helps to reduce acne.

There is a stinging sensation as the peel solution is applied but this feeling will quickly pass. Anesthesia is not required for TCA peels because the chemical solution acts as an anesthetic. However, sedation may be used before and during the procedure to help the patient relax.

A full-face TCA peel usually takes about 15 minutes. Two or more TCA peels may be needed to obtain the desired result, and those may be spaced out over several months. Mild TCA peels may be repeated as often as every month.

Protecting skin from the sun is important following a TCA peel. Your doctor will recommend a sun block with adequate UVA and UVB protection to be used everyday.