ABSTRACT
Introduction Chemical peeling is a popular option for facial rejuvenation. A wide spectrum of
chemical peels exist to produce varying effects on the skin, ranging from salon pro cedures which exfoliate only to the depth of the stratum corneum to peels which are comparable in efficacy to carbon dioxide laser ablation. Just like dermabrasion and laser resurfacing, chemical peeling is a form of controlled wounding resulting in skin rejuvenation. Different solutions are used to target a specific depth of injury with the consequent removal o f damaged skin resulting in improved skin character istics. The classification spectrum ranges from superficial to medium to deep (Table 72.1). Agents are generally classified based on the level or depth of skin injury. Although less efficacious than deep peels, superficial and medium depth peels are desirable due to their long-standing safety record, effectiveness, relative low-cost and quick recovery time. Chemical peels are generally performed on only the face. If applied to other sun exposed areas susceptible to photodamage such as the neck, chest and hands, great caution must be taken due to the decreased number of oil glands and lack of uniform penetration. Superficial peels such as salicylic acid and 30% glycolic acid are usually safe to use in these areas.
