Chemical Peel: HSA Eligibility

What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel, also known as chemexfoliation or derma peeling, is a cosmetic procedure used to treat a wide variety of potential skin conditions, as well as helping to eliminate many signs of aging on the face, hands, neck, chest and back. Chemical peels are done by applying a chemical solution to the skin that causes it to exfoliate and peel off over time, which will leave behind a new, regenerated layer of skin that is typically softer, smoother and with less imperfections than the old skin (American Society for Dermatologic Surgery).

What are the primary chemical peel types?

Depending on the type of skin condition that is being treated, various chemical solutions will be considered, which vary based on their ability to penetrate to deeper skin levels (DermaNetwork). The most common forms of chemical peels include:

• Superficial/Lunchtime Peel: This chemical peel, which takes very little time and has earned the moniker "lunchtime peel," utilizes alpha-hydroxy acid or another mild acid to only treat the outermost layer of the skin. This technique is used to treat mild skin discoloration and rough skin, or treating patients who wish to refresh the look of the skin on their face, neck, hands, back and chest.
• Medium Peel: This technique is designed to penetrate the outer and middle layers of the skin through the application of glycolic or trichloroacetic acid. This technique offers all of the same benefits as superficial peels, but can also help to treat age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, freckles, and even precancerous skin growths.
• Deep Peel: This chemical peel is meant for individuals who are seeking dramatic improvements in the appearance of their skin through the application of tricholoracetic acid or phenol to deeply penetrate the middle layer of the skin to remove damaged skin cells. This method is only used on the face and is meant to remove shallow scars, moderate lines, freckles, age spots and freckles.