Chemical peels are a cosmetic treatment that can help improve various skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne, acne scarring, large pores, hyper-pigmentation, and uneven skin tone. Chemical peels are most commonly performed on the face, neck, or hands. The chemical solutions used in chemical peels include glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, or carbolic acid (phenol) . The different types of chemicals cause a controlled injury, each penetrating through to a different skin depth, then peeling away to reveal a new layer of skin. The different chemical solutions provide different results, and the choice of chemical depends on the goal of the treatment.

Here are some positive and negative aspects of chemical peels:

Positive:

• Can improve various skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne, acne scarring, large pores, hyper-pigmentation, and uneven skin tone.
• Can improve overall skin texture, tone, and overall skin health.
• Can be performed in a doctors office or in a surgery center as an outpatient procedure.
• Chemical peels are safe and well-tolerated.
• Can be used in combination with other skin care products to enhance their absorption.

Negative:

• Not advised for highly sensitive skin or patients with active acne.
• Not advised for dark skin.
• Can cause burns, scarring, and depigmentation.
• Can cause discomfort during the peeling process.
• Requires a pre-peel skin care plan that lasts about 2 to 4 weeks.

The ingredients used in chemical peels vary depending on the type of peel. Here are some examples of ingredients used in chemical peels:

• Beta Hydroxy Acids (Salicylic Acid)
• Alpha Hydroxy Acids (Glycolic and Lactic Acid)
• Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)
• Mandelic Acid
• Glutathione

It is important to note that chemical peels are not for everyone, and it...