Chemical peels are used to reduce or eliminate fine lines, correct uneven skin tone, remove growths and treat acne and scars. They are most often used on the face, but can also be applied to the neck, chest, arms and legs.

The physician applies a chemical solution to the skin that causes a skin layer to gradually peel off, revealing new, smoother skin. The solution may contain alpha hydroxyl acids, trichloroacetic acid or phenol. Healing may take as little as one day or as long as three weeks, depending on the solution used and the condition of the skin.

Chemical peels work best to:

• Reduce acne scars
• Treat certain blemishes
• Even tones in sun-damaged skin
• Minimize fine wrinkles
• Remove pre-cancerous growths