chemical peel uses a chemical solution to improve the texture and tone of the skin by removing the damaged outer layers. Although chemical peels are used mostly on the face, they can also be used to improve the skin on the neck and hands. Sun exposure, acne or just getting older can leave skin tone uneven, wrinkled, spotted or scarred.

A chemical peel is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve the appearance of the skin. The potential result of the chemical peel depends on the type of chemical and technique used. A chemical peel can improve acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, irregular skin pigmentation, rough skin and scaly patches, certain scars and sun-damaged skin. Chemical peel can't treat deep facial lines or wrinkles, significantly tighten loose or sagging skin and deep scars

The procedure

A chemical peel is usually a very safe procedure when performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon.
While very rare, infection or scarring are risks of from chemical peeling treatments.  For people with certain skin types, there is a risk of developing a temporary or permanent color change in the skin either lightening or darkening.
There are three types of chemical peels:
A light chemical peel might be the right choice for uneven pigmentation, dryness, acne or fine wrinkling.

This kind of peel removes just the outer layer of skin (epidermis) in a light exfoliation and can result in a healthier glow.
Common agents used in light peels may include combinations of acids such as glycolic acid, lactic acid or salicylic acid. We can repeat these treatments at regular intervals to achieve the desired results. The chemical solution is brushed onto the skin and left on for a few minutes. The chemical peel is then washed off and neutralized. 

Recovery

Some redness, stinging, skin flaking and irritation from a light chemical peel is possible.  After repeated treatments, these side effects will likely subside. AMedium chemical peelcan treat acne scars, deeper wrinkles and uneven skin color.
The chemicals used for this type of peel will remove skin cells from both the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and upper part of your middle layer of skin (dermis). Agents frequently used for medium depth chemical peeling include TCA (trichloroacetic acid), Jessner's solution and glycolic acid. The chemical solution is brushed onto the skin and left for just a few minutes. You may feel some burning or stinging. The treated area may turn a whitish grey color. The chemicals are neutralized with a cool saline compress. Skin may turn red or brown in the days just after the peel. The peeling process typically starts within 48 hours and lasts for a week.

Recovery

When trichloroacetic acid is used in a medium chemical peel, we experience some redness, stinging and flaking of the skin. Commonly, symptoms are similar to those of a deep sunburn. Avoid the sun and to use sunblock for several months to protect that fresh new layer of skin.

A Deep facial chemical peel might be the right choice for deeper facial wrinkles, skin that's damaged by the sun, scars, areas that appear blotchy or even pre-cancerous growths. Agent used for deep peeling is a strongest chemical called phenol to penetrate down to the lower dermal layer of your skin. For this type of peel, a local or general anesthetic may be needed to manage any discomfort. Phenol is brushed onto the area after an appropriate time interval. And the chemical is neutralized with water. A thick coat of ointment is smoothed over the skin, to prevent dryness and pain. The ointment must stay in place. Sometimes surgeon will cover the skin with strips of tape or medicated gauze rather than ointment.

Recovery

Patients typically can return to work and some of normal activities two weeks after treatment. Deep chemical facial peels will result in peeling, crusting, skin redness and discomfort for several days to weeks. The doctor will provide painkillers and antibiotics. Although the swelling is likely to disappear in about two weeks, skin may remain red for up to three months. One treatment with a deep chemical peel will produce long-lasting and dramatic results that can last up to 10 years.