PCA chemical peels are light to moderate chemical peels that can exfoliate, tighten, smooth, and improve the texture and appearance of the facial skin and some other body areas. PCA chemical peels contain AHAs, or alphahydroxy acids, which are the gentlest and lightest chemical peels available. There are different types of PCA chemical peels that are designed to address specific skin conditions. PCA chemical peels can be very effective at treating facial blemishes and acne, uneven skin pigmentation, fine wrinkles, and damage caused by the sun, aging, and other sources of skin imperfections.

Chemical peels are one of the top five non-surgical procedures that are sought by Americans each year. In 2003, more than 722,000 people underwent chemical peel treatments in the United States; a 46 percent increase from the previous year. Chemical peels are so popular because they can delivery satisfying results with little risk of complications. The average cost of a chemical peel treatment is $800, though the cost can vary greatly depending on the type of chemical peel performed, who performs the treatment, and a variety of other factors. Because PCA chemical peels are usually done for cosmetic purposes, health insurance does not usually cover this type of treatment.

In addition to AHAs, PCA chemical peels also include other chemicals that are formulated to treat specific skin needs. Some PCA chemical peels have hydroquinone constituents which are good for treating sun damage, pigment discolorations, and acne. For patients who are sensitive to hydroquinone, there are PCA chemical peels that do not have this chemical that are useful for unclogging pores, treating acne, and rejuvenating the skin. Some formulations of PCA chemical peels have both hydroquinone and resorcinol. These PCA chemical peels are the most potent and are good for more extreme skin imperfections. Patients with active or cystic acne, extreme sun damage, and asphyxiated skin are usually the best candidates for these PCA chemical peels.

When a person seeks PCA chemical peels, it is important to find a professional who is trained and experienced at skin resurfacing techniques. Some states do not require that a person hold a medical degree to administer PCA chemical peels. A good cosmetic surgeon is often the most qualified person who can administer PCA chemical peels. A surgeon can evaluate your skin, medical history, and other pertinent information in order to determine if PCA chemical peels are the best option for you.

When PCA chemical peels are administered they usually do not require anesthesia, though a sedative may be helpful during treatment. The process usually takes less than an hour and there is generally little downtime after PCA chemical peels. It is normal for patients to experience some temporary redness, flaking, scaling, and/or dryness which usually resolves as the skin adjusts to PCA chemical peels. In order to achieve the desired results, a patient will often need a series of PCA chemical peels. A doctor can discuss this and other specific needs with patients on an individual basis. PCA chemical peels are a safe and effective way to treat skin imperfections and enhance the vibrancy and youthfulness of the skin.