Chemical Peel
Chemical peeling is the application of an exfoliating agent to the skin surface. The peeling agent could be applied alone or in combination with other dermal peeling agents. Chemical peel is used for various indications such as cosmetic and pathologic changes in the skin. It may address the fine lines of the face, pigmentary disturbances, actinic keratosis, solar elastosis, and solar lentiges. It may also improve and smooth out the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. Chemical peel is helpful for individuals with facial blemishes, wrinkles, and uneven skin pigmentation. Phenol, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), and alphahydroxy acids (AHA’s) are the agents used for this purpose. The precise formula used may be adjusted to meet each patient’s needs. All chemical peels carry some risks, but it is normally a safe out-patient procedure when performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. Infection and scarring, while infrequent, are possible.