Chemical peels are an extremely effective way in which...

How do I choose the right chemical peel?

I have trouble understanding all the names and concentrations for chemical facial peel. TCA, AHA peels, Jessner peel, Obagi, etc.  How do you know what's best for the face?


Gregory A. Buford, MD
23 months ago

Chemical peels are an extremely effective way in which to not only achieve healthy skin but also maintain it. To choose the most appropriate peeling agent, several factors should be considered, including degree of damage, allowable downtime, and budget. Taking all of these factors into consideration, we can design a program for you that will meet your goals and leave you with healthy, youthful looking skin for years to come.

  • For clients with minimal sun damage and/or fine lines and wrinkles, a light glycolic, mandelic, or AHA peel would be appropriate.
  • If a patient presents with more pronounced facial aging and wants the quickest results, we will lean more towards a TCA peel.
  • Although phenol peels are an excellent way in which to address facial aging, they have historically been associated with an overall lightening of the skin and so their popularity has waned in the last ten years.
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