Chemical Peels Handbook

Cleveland Clinic describes a chemical peel as a chemical solution applied to your skin that causes injury to the skin's layers, which eventually peel off to reveal more youthful skin that is usually smoother, with fewer lines and wrinkles, a more even color and a brighter complexion. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons says a chemical peel uses a chemical solution to improve the texture and tone of your skin by removing the damaged outer layers, and that although peels are used mostly on the face, they can also be used on the neck and hands.

Read the claims on cost and results with care. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons calls a chemical peel one of the most cost-effective ways to improve the appearance of your skin and says the potential result depends on the type of chemical and technique used. For a second professional description to compare against, read a dermatologic surgery society's overview of chemical peels.

Check the list of conditions and the list of limits. The American Academy of Dermatology says dermatologists use chemical peels to treat some types of acne, age spots, discoloration, a dull complexion, fine lines, freckles, melasma, rough-feeling skin and sun-damaged skin. Its overview of chemical peels sets out the full list. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons lists what a chemical peel can't do: treat deep facial lines or wrinkles, significantly tighten loose or sagging skin, or remove deep scars. Its page on chemical peels is worth reading next to the others.

Peel depths and what they remove

• Chemical solutions: Cleveland Clinic says the solutions typically used include glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid or carbolic acid (phenol).
• Light peel: Cleveland Clinic says a light, or lunchtime, chemical peel provides subtle improvement over time, is often done in a series and removes the outermost layer of skin.
• Medium peel: Cleveland Clinic says a medium chemical peel gives your skin a smooth, fresh look and removes the outermost layer and the upper part of your middle skin layer.
• Deep peel: Cleveland Clinic says a deep chemical peel produces the most dramatic results, penetrates down to the lower middle layer of your skin and has a longer recovery time.

The three guides, in the order to read them

The American Academy of Dermatology reports that some chemical peels sold for at-home use are causing serious injuries, and that the FDA advises buying and using a chemical peel only under the supervision of a licensed, trained provider like a dermatologist. Read the guides below before you book with anyone:

• Chemical Peel Questions Answered: The answers to the questions most readers ask, from who performs the peel to what it costs.
• Chemical Peel Recovery Expectations: What the days after a peel look like and what care they ask of you.
• Preparing Skin Before a Peel: What to ask and do in the weeks before a peel.