If you are one of the over 3 million Americans every year that suffer from some form of acne, you have likely considered what feels like every available option to rid your skin of blemishes. One solution for mild to moderate acne is a chemical peel. Chemical peels work by removing the top layer of skin allowing new, healthy skin to take its place. Chemical peeling uses an acid solution to strip away the skin’s outer layers in a controlled manner. This elimination to part or all of the epidermis, and in stronger chemical peels, part of the dermis, stimulates the skin’s regenerative process, including the production of collagen and elasticity. 

While chemical peels cannot remove deep scars or wrinkles or tighten the skin, they are ideal for diminishing fine lines, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and are great solutions for acne and acne scars. 

Types of chemical peels are labeled by depth: light, medium and deep. The higher the concentration of acid and active ingredients, the stronger the peel. 

• Light chemical peel: A light chemical peel is often referred to as a lunchtime peel because it can be performed in under an hour and lacks any recovery time. This treatment is the most subtle option for those trying chemical peels for the first time. By helping to clear the skin, a light chemical peel will kill the bacteria that can cause acne and breakouts as well as facial hair that may be clogging pores that lead to acne breakouts. A light peel generally lasts about 1-2 months after initial treatment. Light peels are best suited for acne and acne scarring as well as uneven skin tone and texture, fine lines, hyper or hypo pigmentation, and dullness. Types of superficial peels include AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid), TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid), salicylic acid, blended acid peels and retinoids. 
• Medium chemical peel: A medium chemical peel penetrates deeper into the dermis to exfoliate the cells. Patients can expect more noticeable results from a medium peel if they are exhibiting acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, liver spots, skin laxity and/or actinic keratoses (rough skin patches that can lead to skin cancer). Medium peels use trichloroacetic or glycolic acid and are effective for removing damaged skin cells.
• Deep chemical peel: Deep chemical peels provide the most noticeable and dramatic results but carry greater risk. According to https://www.plasticsurgery.org “The chemical used in a deep chemical peel, phenol, can lighten the skin that’s treated. With this kind of peel, your new skin often loses its ability tan normally. It is critical that the treated area is protected from the sun. Phenol (a deep peel agent) also can pose a special risk for people with heart disease. Be sure to tell your surgeon about any heart problems and include it in your medical history.”

Our team at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology is ready and waiting to help your skin achieve a radiant glow. Book your appointment now at 602-867-7546 or visit our WEBSITE for more information on the best procedures to help brighten and lighten your skin.