Why are my wrinkles worse after a lactic acid peel?

Question

I did a 40% lactic acid peel one week ago. I only had some fine lines on my face but after the peel they are much more visible. Is this normal and will this new wrinkles become less visible with continued peels?

Amy Miller, MD · Answer

Don't worry!  Chemical peels cause the top layer of already dead skin cells to slough off. Before those sheets of skin actually come off they get dry and start to separate from the underlying layers.  The cells get "folded" in when the muscles under the skin contract and wrinkles will actually be highlighted and look worse.  This can last for a few days, even a few weeks, depending on the patient's skin and type of peel performed.  Once the shedding is complete things will look much better!
Best,
Dr. Amy

Why are my wrinkles worse after a lactic acid peel?

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Why are my wrinkles worse after a lactic acid peel?

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