Men and women alike share a common desire to have healthy, youthful skin. Exposure to the sun, to the elements, and detrimental living habits, all contribute to the appearance of our skin today. Chemical Peels have become very popular with those who are unhappy with acne scarring, sun-damaged skin, age spots, freckles, fine lines, rough skin and uneven pigmentation. Unlike laser resurfacing procedures, Chemical Peels are not limited to the face and can be performed on the neck, chest, hands, arms, shoulders, and legs - just about anywhere! What is a Chemical Peel? Chemical peels are topically applied acids that aid in the restoration and rejuvenation of the skin's surface. They create an even and controlled shedding of several layers of the skin. Depending on the type and depth of the peel, few or many layers can be shed allowing new layers to be exposed and creating a fresh new appearance. In addition, chemical peels stimulate the production of new cells, tighten and tone the skin, and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Enjoy fresh smooth skin! What will my skin look and feel like immediately following? The condition of the skin and healing times vary depending upon the strength of the peel performed. Chemical Peels are classified as superficial, medium and deep peels. Superficial Peel This peel is designed to help smooth rough, dry skin, improve the texture of sun-damaged skin, and even out skin tone. The recovery is generally rapid, and usually consists of minor flaking. A series of treatments is generally recommended to obtain the desired result over a period of time. Typically there is no down time and with appropriate sun protection, you can resume regular activities immediately. Medium Peel Medium peels often contain higher levels of strong acids. The best candidate for a medium peel is an individual with fair skin. Medium Peels target the epidermis and upper dermis and cause the skin to slough within 5 to 7 days. Immediately after treatment the skin has a red appearance and is occasionally accompanied by swelling. Within a day, the skin turns brown in color and after 3 or 4 days, the skin begins the peeling process. Deep Peels Deep peels produce the most dramatic results. This peel is recommended for treating wrinkles, scars and blemishes and in some cases, precancerous skin lesions. A deep peel targets the dermis. In some cases, anesthesia is required during the procedure to reduce the warm to hot stinging sensation. There is little or no discomfort following the peel. After a deep peel, the area is swollen and red and can result in some swelling and blistering. A crust may form and the skin will turn brown just prior to peeling. Many layers of the skin will peel over a period of one to two weeks. An ointment may be given to keep the area moist. The new skin will have the color and sensation of significant sunburn, which will gradually fade to your normal skin color. What are the side effects? Chemicals Peels have become very popular because of their ease and relative lack of complications. Most people are usually very pleased with their results. Side effects are rare and usually temporary. Some side effects include uneven pigmentation, redness, and even more rarely, scarring. Proper sun protection greatly minimizes the risk of side effects. A regular program of sunscreens, sun blocks and sun protection will greatly help your skin maintain the result of the peel. You can minimize side effects by carefully following the instructions of your physician, aesthetician and staff. What are the benefits of a Chemical Peel? Patients benefit from chemical peels by greatly reducing blotchy and uneven pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, freckling, age spots, sun-damaged skin, and acne scars in a relatively short period of time and without going to a hospital.