A chemical peel is one of the many procedures people can have these days to improve the texture of their skin, normally on the face. In this kind of procedure, a solution of chemicals is used to blister the outer layers of the epidermis so that it eventually peels off. For that reason the treatments are sometimes called “chemexfoliation”. After the peel, new skin regenerates that is less wrinkled and much smoother.

What Can Chemical Peels be Used to Treat?
A chemical peel can be used for many different conditions, including some associated with aging. Also, according to WebMD, pre-cancerous keratosis caused by exposure to the sun can be removed with a chemical peel. Often, several treatments may be required over an extended period to correct the condition. Chemical peels can:

· Smooth fine lines and wrinkles
· Eliminate blemishes on the surface of the skin
· Control acne
· Fade mild scars
· Minimize age spots, freckles, and dark areas on the skin
· Improve the overall all tone and texture of the skin

Except for deep chemical peels, a chemical peel can be used on the neck and hands, as well as the face. The best candidates for these procedures are patients with fair skin and light hair.  However, people with dark skin can be treated with chemical peels for certain conditions.

How is the Procedure Done?
This is an outpatient procedure normally performed in a physician’s office or a center that provides minor surgical services. Depending on the type of peel, there may be some special arrangements needed. For deep peels, EKG monitoring, sedation, local anesthetic, or painkillers may be required. Superficial peels generally don’t require any of these measures. After deep chemical peels, antibiotics may be prescribed to safeguard against infection.

The first step in the chemical peel process is cleaning the skin to remove excess oil, while protecting the eyes and hair. Then the peeling agent, a solution of chemicals, is applied for several minutes. The specific solution chosen for the peel will depend upon which specific condition is being treated. Essentially, the chemicals create a controlled wound,causing a burning or stinging sensation.  These sensations dramatically improve once the procedure concludes.

The chemicals generally used for chemical peels are:

· Alphahydroxy acids (AHA) – These are usually used to smooth skin, improve texture, and treat minor acne.

· Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) – TCA is used for wrinkles, surface blemishes, and pigmentation issues.

· Phenol – This is used in the deeper chemical peels and treats coarse wrinkles, gets rid of the pre-cancerous growths, corrects damage caused by the sun and discoloration caused by birth control pills or pregnancy.

Side Effects or Complications of Chemical Peels
There are some minor side effects that some people experience after the peel and there can occasionally be complications. Possible complications include:

· Temporary or permanent skin discoloration may result in some skin types. After a peel, certain conditions may make abnormal skin color more likely, including pregnancy and female contraceptives.

· There is a very slight risk of scarring on some parts of the face.

The side effects that can be expected after a chemical peel include sunburn-like symptoms, redness, and scaling. These usually subside after about one week.