The use of chemical peels to soften and improve the appearance of the skin, dates back to the ancient Egyptians. Little did they know that they were benefiting from the superficial skin peeling effects of hydroxy acids; lactic acid in the milk they were bathing in and tartaric acid in the grape skins they rubbed on their skin. Today, scientists have identified numerous forms of acid which can be used to induce beneficial changes for our skin, including salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol. Chemical peeling (chemexfoliation) involves the application of a chemical solution to the surface of the skin to produce the careful removal of its outer layers. The amount of skin removed will depend on the type of chemical used, the strength of the product (superficial, medium depth and deep) and how long it is left on the skin. They can be used on most areas of the body, but are commonly used on the face or the backs of the hands to improve rough skin texture, fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, sun damage, blemishes, scars or acne and actinic keratosis (precancerous skin growth). Private costs for chemical peels depend upon the type of peel and problem being treated.