A chemical peel is a skin resurfacing treatment in which a chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove the top layers of dead skin cells. The solution used can vary depending on the desired outcome and the individual’s skin type, but common ingredients include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and trichloroacetic acid (TCA).

Chemical peels can be used to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, age spots, freckles, acne, and uneven skin tone. They can also be used to improve the texture and overall appearance of the skin.

There are three main types of chemical peels:

1. Superficial peels: Also known as light peels, these use mild acids such as glycolic acid or lactic acid to remove the outermost layers of skin. They are typically used to improve the appearance of fine lines and mild sun damage.
2. Medium peels: These peels use stronger acids such as TCA or Jessner’s solution to penetrate deeper into the skin. They are used to treat more severe sun damage, age spots, and wrinkles.
3. Deep peels: These peels use the strongest acids, such as phenol, to penetrate the deepest layers of the skin. They are used to treat severe sun damage, deep wrinkles, and precancerous growths.