A chemical peel is a cosmetic treatment in which an esthetician or doctor applies a chemical solution to your skin, causing it to exfoliate and eventually peel off.
The new skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. Chemical peels are used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, dull skin, and uneven skin tone. They can be done on the face, neck, chest, hands, or feet.
During a chemical peel, a chemical solution is applied directly to the skin. The type of solution used depends on the desired result. Common solutions used include glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), and phenol. The strength and concentration of these acids also vary depending on your individual needs.
Once applied, the chemical solution stays on for a set amount of time before being removed with cool water. During this time it works to exfoliate deeper layers of skin while stimulating collagen production in order to improve texture and tone. Depending on your specific needs, you may need more than one treatment in order to achieve optimal results.