It isn't difficult to have a successful chemical peel experience, but some of our candidates had more dramatic results than others. Following the at-home guidelines is key, as is staying out of the sun and using SPF.

We asked Dr. Pollei to play favorites: "I would have to say Audree -- when she came in for photos, I could see the difference in her," he says. "She was carrying herself differently. She interacts in society a little differently than she was before. So the fact that it's improved to the point that she's less self-conscious makes her my favorite."

However, even the women with more subtle changes noticed their skin was significantly glowier after a series of chemical peels -- enough to elicit compliments. "A friend will say, 'you look really good, what did you do?,'" says Dr. Pollei. "And they often can't put their finger on what it is, but they can tell there's a difference." And isn't that really the end goal with any skin treatment?