What is a chemical peel?
A chemical peel is a treatment used to improve the skin. This page covers where it is used and what to ask before you book one.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons says that although chemical peels are used mostly on the face, they can also be used to improve the skin on your neck and hands.
Face, neck and hands
The face is the main place, according to the society above. The neck and hands are the other areas it names.
If you live in Madera, Madera Acres, Fairmead or elsewhere in the county, a peel is something to talk through with a clinician in person, because the right plan depends on your skin.
Questions that cost nothing to ask
The low-cost first step is a good set of questions to ask any clinic.
- What is the peel meant to improve on my skin?
- What will my skin look like in the days after?
- Do the skin products I use now change the plan?
Write the answers down so you can compare them with what another clinic tells you.
Two peel articles worth reading
The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery has a page on chemical peels. A review in PubMed Central looks at chemical peels in the treatment of acne and how patients are selected. Both are useful to read before an appointment.
Redness, pain or blisters after a peel
After any skin procedure, redness, pain or blistering that worries you is a reason to call the clinic that did it. Do not wait for your next scheduled visit.
Who should avoid laser resurfacing?
Readers who learn what a peel is often ask next who should avoid laser resurfacing. This site answers that on its laser resurfacing page.