Does chemical peel hurt?
With glycolic acid or salicylic acid peels, a burning gradually develops soon after the solution is applied. A fan and cool compresses may help. If glycolic acid is used, the neutralizing solution removes most of the burning sensation immediately after it is applied. However, there may be several areas that continue to burn or sting over the next 24 hours. With trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels, a more intense burning is followed by a tightening sensation that lasts for 7 to 10 minutes. A fan and cool, wet compresses help alleviate much of this discomfort as well. Most patients do not require any anesthesia. How will my skin look following the peel? A patient’s response to a chemical peel will vary and depends upon the skin type as well as the peeling agent. With glycolic acid, most patients develop redness and appear flushed; this decreases over the next 24 to 48 hours. Occasionally patients will develop mild facial swelling. The area beneath the eyes and the chin are most sensitive to
