Chemical Peels consist of the application of a chemical solution to injure the top layers of the skin for the removal of superficial imperfections and improvement of the texture of the skin. These exfoliating agents date back to ancient Egypt when sour milk baths were used by women to soothe the skin. Peels are classified as superficial, medium-depth and deep, depending on the level of penetration, destruction and inflammation produced. They are beneficial in improving imperfections such as facial blemishes, fine wrinkles, uneven pigmentation and superficial scars. With deeper penetration, stimulation of new collagen and reversal of photodamage for true regeneration are feasible.
Superficial chemical peeling encourages regrowth of the epidermis with less photodamage and a more youthful appearance. It usually takes repetitive peels to achieve desired results.

These agents consist of trichloroacetic acid (TCA), alpha hydroxy-acids (AHA), beta-hydroxy acid (Salicylic acid) and Jessner's solution. These may be used in combination with other methods of skin rejuvenation for improved results. Repetitive superficial peels are useful in treating pigment changes, freckles, age spots and thin seborrheic keratoses.

Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic, lactic or fruit acids are the mildest of the formulas and produce light peels. These are very popular because of their ability to provide a smoother brighter-looking skin with very little downtime. Various concentrations can be applied and need to be administered frequently at regular intervals to achieve best results.

Salicylic acid peeling is especially useful for treatment of active acne, comedomes and enlarged pores. It is the least inflammatory of the formulas and can be safely used on darker skin and in patients with melasma. Repetitive treatments on a weekly or bi-weekly interval for a total of 6-8 sessions along with appropriate cosmeceutical agents make this "lunch time" peel a favorite.

TCA peels are used for medium-depth controlled damage to the upper dermis. These peels can be utilized on a monthly basis to more aggressively treat photaging, tighten the skin, remove fine wrinkles and blend pigmentary unevenness. They increase the skin's capacity to retain hydration while stimulating a thicker, more elastic youthful-appearance.

Phenol offers a deeper peel and will more dramatically treat coarser wrinkles and more severely sun-damaged skin, but it does carry somewhat more risk and more recovery time. Phenol carries greater risk of lightening the skin so your skin type is even more critical in determining if it is right for you.

Chemical peeling does not stand alone as a solitary aesthetic procedure but should be combined with other modalities such as cosmeceuticals, dermal fillers Restylane® and Botox®. We at skinkareltd use primarily glycolics and salicylic acid in combination with laser and light-based treatments for desired client satisfaction.