Chemical peels involve using a mixture of chemicals to treat acne. These chemicals work by peeling off the top layer of skin, removing the dead cells and debris, and exposing a fresh layer of new skin underneath. These peels usually contain alpha or beta hydroxy acids which help exfoliate the skin. Most peels contain glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxyl acid as a peeling agent. Beta hydroxy acids work in the same way as alpha hydroxyl acids. They are especially effective for people with oily skin since they prevent the buildup of oil within the pores. Another potent ingredient in chemical peels is salicylic acid, which is a popular treatment for acne. Several factors like your skin type, the extent of your acne are taken into consideration before determining the kind of chemical peel which suits you best. An experienced cosmetologist will be able to recommend a good chemical peel for your acne. During treatment with a chemical peel, the exfoliating agent is applied on the skin in a thin layer and left to stay for ten minutes. You may feel a burning sensation at this time. The peel is then removed by washing the skin with cooled water and a neutralizing agent. The skin is then dried. The treatment procedure may be followed by redness of the skin in some, but it will resolve after a few hours. Sometimes, the redness may last for up to five days.