Chemical peels are cosmetic treatments that involve using acids to exfoliate the skin. The acid removes a uniform amount of damaged skin cells across the treatment area. When done appropriately, this allows the skin to heal, with minimal scarring or color changes.
Chemical peels can affect two layers of the skin, the epidermis, and the dermis. The epidermis is the visible outer layer, and the dermis sits just beneath. This deeper layer contains nerve endings, sweat glands, and hair follicles.
All chemical peels remove a controlled amount of skin cells from the epidermis. A stronger peel may also remove a small part of the dermis.
Dermatologists may use chemical peels to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles or to address: acne, enlarged pores, scarring, redness, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.