& Aesthetic Medicine
Chemical Peels
Chemical Peels at New York Physical and Aesthetic Medicine
Chemical peels are a popular non-invasive cosmetic treatment used to improve the appearance of skin. At New York Physical and Aesthetic Medicine, we offer a variety of chemical peel options to address various skin concerns.
A chemical peel is a procedure that involves applying a chemical solution to the skin, causing it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. This reveals smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin underneath. The type and strength of the chemical solution used will depend on the specific needs and goals of the individual.
Conditions that can be treated with Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a versatile treatment that can address a wide range of skin concerns. Some common conditions that can be treated with chemical peels include:
- Acne and acne scars
- Sun damage and age spots
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Hyperpigmentation, such as melasma or dark spots
- Uneven skin tone and texture
Chemical Peels we offer:
Light (Superficial) Peels:
- Agents Used: Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic, lactic, or fruit acids.
- Treatment Depth: Only penetrates the outermost layer of the skin.
- Downtime: Minimal to none.
- Purpose: Helps with dryness, fine wrinkles, acne, and uneven pigmentation.
- Frequency: Can be repeated every 2-4 weeks.
Medium Peels:
- Agents Used: Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), sometimes used in combination with AHAs.
- Treatment Depth: Penetrates the outer and middle layers of the skin.
- Downtime: Several days to a week, where the skin will be red and may flake or crust.
- Purpose: Treats wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven skin tone.
- Frequency: Can be repeated every 3-9 months, depending on individual needs.
Deep Peels:
- Agents Used: Phenol acid.
- Treatment Depth: Penetrates the deeper layers of the dermis.
- Downtime: Can be up to several weeks. The skin will be very red, and there will be swelling and peeling.
- Purpose: Corrects deeper wrinkles, sun-damaged skin, and scars. It offers more dramatic and long-lasting results.
- Frequency: Often done only once due to its intensity.
Treatment Benefits
Treatment FAQs
A typical session can last from a few minutes for light peels to up to an hour or more for deep peels.
Light peels might cause mild stinging, while deeper peels can require topical anesthesia due to possible discomfort.
Recovery from a light peel can be a few days, with some redness and scaling. A deep peel might require a week or more of recovery, with skin initially looking red and swollen.
Sun exposure after a chemical peel should be limited. The skin will be more sensitive to the sun, so wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen is crucial.