Do Chemical Peels Work?
A chemical peel uses a single acid, or several different acids, to penetrate the top layer of skin. When the skin is peeled off, it takes with it fine lines, shallow discolorations and scars. There are three kinds of chemical peels, differing in the acid used and the depth of the treatment. The results from chemical peels will depend on which one your doctor thinks is right for you. The process of a chemical peel is as shown in the video above. A light chemical peel is performed in the doctor’s office using alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) and betahydroxy acids (BHAs). These are the active ingredients in exfoliating face creams. They can reduce fine lines and shallow discolorations, but not scars or sun damage. The doctor applies these acids to your carefully cleansed face, leaves the solution on for about 10 to 15 minutes, and then neutralizes the acid with saline solution and cleans it off. There is little or no pain. However, because the treatment is light, the results from chemical peels
