As we age our skin changes. Lines and wrinkles are caused naturally with age, heredity and the pull of gravity. Abusing one's skin by over exposure to the sun, smoking, alcohol consumption, air conditioning and pollution all increase the ageing process faster. Fine lines, wrinkles & irregular pigmentation appear in the face where there was once soft, smooth skin.

Chemical peeling is a technique used to freshen the skin, soften fine lines, increase the circulation and improve the skin overall. It lightens pigmentation of the skin in the form of sun spots, liver spots, freckles, blotchiness due to sun damage & taking birth control pills. Mild acne scarring & certain types of acne can be treated.

Chemical peels have been performed for over 70 years. There are 2 types of chemical solutions used in these types of peels. Phenol and Trichloro Acetic Acid (TCA). Phenol is not commonly used anymore, as it can have many side effects.

Today we approach the skin differently by peeling less deeply and more often.

The depth of the peel can be adjusted depending on the patients needs, skin type and skin damage. Your face will be cleaned thoroughly with a special prep to remove any dirt or oil. The TCA solution is painted on the skin. A white "frosting" occurs over 5 minutes. The white colour will diminish as the chemical has been absorbed. Your face will then appear slightly sunburnt and feel tight.

The chemical applied causes separation and eventual peeling of upper layers of skin, enabling new regenerated skin to appear.

As the new skin is fragile and more susceptible to injury during the healing stage avoidance of the sun for the next 3 months is mandatory as the skins tanning cells are too immature to protect it. It is important to where sun protection & a hat. It is also a good idea to sit in the shade where ever possible in these 3 months.

In some states, no medical degree is required to perform a chemical peel - even the strongest phenol peels. Many states have laws that permit non-physicians to administer certain peel solutions, but regulate the strengths which they are permitted to apply. You should be warned that phenol and TCA peels have been offered by inadequately trained practitioners claiming "miracletechniques" to rejuvenate the skin.

It is very important that you find a physician who has adequate training and experience in skin resurfacing. Your plastic surgeon may offer you a choice of peel techniques or suggest a combination of peels to obtain the best result for you.

During your initial consultation, it is important that you discuss your expectations with your plastic surgeon. Don't hesitate to ask any questions or express any concerns that you may have. Expect your plastic surgeon to explain the planned procedure in detail, including its risks and benefits, the recovery period and the costs. If you have a history of herpes, you should inform your physician prior to the procedure. Remember, chemical peel treatments are usually not covered by medical insurance unless they are performed for medically related problems.