A body peel is a skin-resurfacing procedure that uses the application of different chemical solutions along with exfoliation techniques to soften and rejuvenate the skin by removing old and dead layers of skin cells. This helps to promote new growth and enhanced texture of the skin. Sometimes referred to as a chemical peel, this procedure can help to tighten and firm the skin while simultaneously exfoliating, resulting in a noticeable renewal of the skin.
Although chemical peels are used mostly on the face, they can also be used to improve the skin on other parts of the body. A body peel may be used even out skin tone as well as to treat:
- Fine wrinkles
- Acne or acne scars
- Dryness or rough patches on the skin
- Sun damage
- Scars or skin damage
During the body peel procedure, chemical solutions are carefully applied to the skin to improve the texture by removing damaged outer layers. The chemicals that may be used include phenol, trichloroacetic acid and alphahydroxy acids. The combination of chemicals used on each patient may be adjusted to meet his or her particular needs.
Discomfort from this treatment is usually minor and the patient may feel some mild stinging while the chemical peel is applied. After the treatment, there may be some redness on the skin, which clears up within a few days. Mild chemical or body peels may be repeated on a monthly basis, however, more intense chemical peels may require six to twelve months between treatments.