The right chemical peel depends on what your goals are for your skin. Chemical peels differ in the depth of penetration.
For instance, if the goal of the peel is simply to exfoliate the skin, a superficial chemical peel can be used. For pigment irregularities (age spots, melasma), medium depth chemical peels are beneficial. On the other hand, if the goal is to combat wrinkles, a problem in the deep layers of the skin, a deep chemical peel must be used.
In general, non-medical providers, such as aestheticians, can only apply superficial chemical peels. Superficial peels are outlined in other answers in this section. Superficial peels are generally very safe, and some are even available over the counter. Permanent scarring and skin burns are rare to non-existent.
Medium depth peels, such as 15-35% TCA (trichloroacetic acid) are excellent at taking care of sun damaged skin. It is important to have these administered by an experienced physician who is able to discern a true sun spot from something more ominous, such as a skin cancer. TCA peels do require a short recovery time and should be done by experienced physicians, as side effects can occur.
For deeper skin layers, deeper chemical peels, such as a phenol peel, are necessary. This chemical peel will cause what amounts to a severe sun burn and should only be administered by trained physicians who are experienced with facial peels and can deal with any possible outcomes. It can significantly improve facial lines and wrinkles and produces very nice results when done properly.
