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Does a Chemical Peel Work to Remove Age Spots?

A chemical peel DOES work to remove age spots.

More Info: Chemical peels are considered an effective treatment to greatly improve the appearance of pigmented skin including freckles, dark patches, and age spots. 

What Is a Chemical Peel? 

In the simplest terms, a chemical peel is a topical solution applied to the skin that burns away the uppermost layer of the skin exposing the fresher skin beneath. The procedure is also called chemexfoliation or chemabrasion. 

Chemical Peeling Types 

Peeling agents are categorized as superficial, medium, or deep. The peeling agent is chosen based on the level of damage and the desired results.

Alphahydroxy Peel: The gentlest chemical peel is applied using Alphahydroxy acids, commonly referred to as fruit acids. The Alphahydroxy peel removes surface layer skin cells and is beneficial for mild to moderate skin issues such as softening of fine lines or lightening skin pigmentation such as age spots. The recovery time is generally one day. Depending on the damage, several visits may be necessary for best results.

TCA Peel: Trichloracetic acid is most often used for a medium-depth peel.  The solution can be adjusted to provide for the degree of depth desired. The recovery time of a TCA peel will depend on the depth of the peel.  A surface peel will generally require two to three days recovery time, while a deep peel can require anywhere from one to two weeks.

Phenol Peel: The phenol peel produces the most dramatic effects but it also produces the most discomfort and a higher risk of complications. A phenol peel can take up to three to six months to fully heal.