Chemical peeling of facial skin has become an integral part of the armamentarium for resurfacing aging, sun-damaged, and diseased skin. The desire to reverse the aging process has generated tremendous interest throughout history. Ancient texts describe the application of substances to the skin in an attempt to rejuvenate the appearance.

There are many products currently available for chemical resurfacing of the skin, from over-the-counter superficial peeling agents to deep peeling chemicals that should only be applied by a physician in a controlled setting. Many of these products and procedures have proven very successful in improving the quality and appearance of facial skin. The goal of chemical peeling is to remove a controlled uniform thickness of damaged skin to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing the superficial layers and stimulate a wound healing response. In response to the chemical injury, a healing reaction occurs which yields the clinical appearance of rejuvenation.

Although the Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery Center Medi.SPA performs a variety of superficial peels, Dr. Bassichis performs the Medium-Depth Peels including 35% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and Jessner's Peels for more dramatic resurfacing. A medium depth chemical peel will improve color, freshness, texture, skin tone, and fine wrinkles. It will also improve superficial discoloration, such as age spots. It may improve facial blotchiness and can sometimes improve dark under-eye circles.