Introduction

Chemical and mechanical skin resurfacing has been utilized by humans to improve the overall appearance and well-being of skin. The first chemical peels date back to the Egyptians who used sour milk baths (lactic acid), various chemicals (e.g., alabaster and salt), and sandpaper in order to attain a smoother skin surface [1]. In 1882, P.G.Unna, a German dermatologist, described the properties of salicylic acid, resorcinol, phenol, and trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and used these chemicals as peeling agents [2]. In 1976, Resnik et al. described the utility of TCA peels in various skin conditions [3]. In the late 1980s and the 1990s, α-hydroxy acids (AHAs) became available for superficial peeling agents. For nearly 20 years, a newer technique for superficial skin resurfacing, microdermabrasion, has become a key player in the arena of noninvasive anti-aging medicine.Over the last several decades, the science behind resurfacing procedures has expanded, as has the public’s increasing demand for cosmetic surgery and skin rejuvenation. To date, chemical peeling and microdermabrasion are among the most common procedures performed in dermatologic offices and are an important component of our armamentarium in the management of both cosmetic and noncosmetic skin conditions.