Chemical Peels for a Younger You
What you should know about anti-aging chemical peels

Chemical peels are chemical solutions that improve and smooth the texture of the skin. The solution removes the skin’s damaged outer layers, revealing smoother, younger looking skin beneath. Chemical peels are especially beneficial for individuals with acne, blemishes, and skin pigmentation. Phenol, alpha hydroxyl acid, and trichloroacetics are commonly used as chemical peels. The formula may be adjusted to fit the individual needs of each patient. The following will provide some basic information about chemical peel treatments and the results to expect. You may have individual questions that cannot be answered, since much depends on your own circumstances. Ask your surgeon or doctor about any questions or concerns about the chemical peel procedure.
Is a chemical peel right for you?
Chemical peels can enhance the appearance and texture of your skin by removing pre-cancerous skin growths, acne facial scars, and active acne. Health insurance may cover chemical peels as part of a medical measure against skin cancer. Make sure to contact your insurance company to check whether the procedure is covered under your plan.
Alpha hydroxy acids, which include glycolic, fruit, and lactic acids, are the mildest of the chemical peels. These are light peels that produce brighter, smoother skin for people who want little to no downtime. Alpha hydroxyl acids are especially good for treating fine wrinkles, acne, and uneven pigmentation. Applications may vary; you can apply them weekly or for longer intervals. Ask your doctor what regiment would be best for you. Alpha-hydroxy acids are also often mixed in with cream in lesser concentrations to improve the skin’s texture through a daily regimen.
Trichloroacetic acid is used in many concentrations. It is most typically used for a medium-strength chemical peel. Surface wrinkles, pigmentation, and blemishes are treated with Trichloroacetic acid. The results of this peel tend to be less permanent and drastic than a phenol peel. On the other hand, recovery times are usually shorter with the trichloroacetic acid than with a phenol peel.
Phenol is the strongest chemical peel on the market and is used for deep chemical peels. This chemical is best for patients with deep facial wrinkles, damaged or blotchy skin caused by sun damage, or pre-cancerous skin growths. Phenol tends to lighten treated areas of the skin, so darker-skinned patients should take this into consideration as they decide whether phenol is an appropriate treatment for them. Phenol is used primarily on the face and may scar the skin when used on the neck or other areas.
Remember: chemical peels carry at least some degree of risk and uncertainty. Although chemical peels are normally safe procedures when performed by experienced, skilled surgeons, there is always the rare chance that your skin will not respond well to the treatment. Infection and scarring, while rare, are still possible.