Treatment: Chemical Peel
What It Does
Depth of peel removes superficial to deep layers of skin, depending on concentration, type, and application of acid.
What It's Best For
Superficial peels correct minor pigment irregularities and remove dead, dry skin cells.Medium peels improve texture and remove areas of hyperpigmentation, freckles, and sun spots.
Deep peels improve wrinkles, furrows, lesions, and pigment irregularities.
Average Cost
$100+ per treatment for superficial peel; $1,000+ for medium-depth peel; $2,000+ for deep peel.Number of Treatments
Superficial peels give best results when repeated every few weeks.Medium peels may be repeated every 6 months.
Deep peels are typically done once, but may be repeated years later.
Risks and Recovery Time
Superficial peels require no healing time, although skin may be red and itchy for 48 hours.Medium peels cause redness and swelling for about a week.
Deep peels create crusting, so careful wound care for the first week is essential.
Antibiotics, analgesics, and antiviral drugs are usually prescribed for medium to deep peels.
Pinkness may persist for months. Medium to deep peels may cause pigment irregularities and scarring.
Infections may occur after a medium to deep peel if wound care is not meticulous.
Inside Scoop
Medium to deep peels of the entire face are rarely done today, because of the risks of scarring. Peels of the upper lip can lighten skin, leaving the appearance of a white "mustache."
