Salicylic acid peels deeply exfoliate the surface layers of the skin to break the bonds that hold skin cells together. The procedure begins with the cleansing of the surface of the skin after which the skin is prepared. This helps the skin peel evenly and reduce the risk of infection. The salicylic acid peel solution is applied gently onto the areas to be treated while avoiding the mouth and eye areas because they are thinner and sensitive. After a couple of minutes, the peel is rinsed off with cool water for 60 seconds and then a moisturizer is applied.