Chemical Peels in New York

Chemical peels² can stimulate new skin production, creating a smoother and less wrinkled layer of skin. Chemicals are applied to the skin. The solution makes the skin peel off, exposing the newer, healthier, and less damaged skin.

Glycolic acid is the most widely recognized and used chemical peeling agent. It is a water-soluble acid that works to accelerate the turnover of skin cells, remove lesions, restore elasticity, and can help improve the moisturizing characteristics of the skin. There are a variety of different skin peel chemicals that are applied depending on the condition and type of skin being treated.

It is important to prepare the skin at least two weeks prior to the appointment. Those who are prone to hyperpigmentation should use a fading gel to decrease melanin production in the skin. Hyper-pigmentation is a condition that changes the skin unevenly that can leave blotches or discoloration in certain areas.

Chemical peels are generally better for those with fair skin and light hair because the solution will be able to create an evener skin complexion. Very saggy skin, bulges, and deep wrinkles may not respond well to chemical peels and need to consult with our aesthetician, Courtney, in order to receive a proper consultation. Certain skin conditions may be more effectively treated with different cosmetic procedures³, such as laser resurfacing.

Chemical peels take about 30 minutes in total depending on the type of skin that is being treated, however, all peels are performed in less than one hour, making it an ideal treatment for those with busy schedules.

Patients that undergo chemical peel treatments can go outside afterward, but it is important that sunscreen is worn at all times the days following. Sunscreen should always be worn regardless if you have just undergone a chemical peel, but it is very important for the health of your skin to protect it once it has this treatment. Skin will be more sensitive, increasing the skin’s susceptibility to sunburns.

The skin can be treated with chemical peels with three sessions every two weeks. Chemical peels that use glycolic acid complement products that contain glycolic acid can be used for at-home skincare.

A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure that involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin to remove the top layers. The result is a smoother and more even complexion. Chemical peels can be used to treat a variety of skin concerns, such as wrinkles, sun damage, scars, and discoloration. They can be performed on the face, neck, hands, and other areas of the body. Chemical peels can be light, medium, or deep, depending on the strength of the chemical solution used and the depth of the peel. The peeling process typically starts a few days after the treatment and can last up to a week.

A chemical peel involves applying a solution to the skin, which causes the outer layers to peel off, revealing smoother, more youthful-looking skin underneath.

Chemical peels can be used to treat a variety of skin concerns, including wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. They can also be effective in reducing the appearance of age spots, freckles, and melasma.

Superficial or light peels are the mildest type of chemical peel and are ideal for treating minor skin issues. Medium peels penetrate deeper into the skin and are useful for addressing more significant skin concerns. Deep peels are the strongest type of peel and are reserved for treating severe skin damage.

By following these steps, you can help ensure the best possible results from your chemical peel and minimize the risk of complications:

• Consult with Dr. Rokhsar: It is important to discuss your medical history, current medications, and any skin conditions with your board-certified dermatologist before scheduling a chemical peel.
• Discontinue use of certain medications: Depending on the type of chemical peel you will receive, your dermatologist may recommend that you stop using certain medications, such as retinoids, for a while before your treatment.
• Avoid waxing, electrolysis, or depilatory creams: Refrain from hair removal methods that can irritate the skin for at least one week before your chemical peel.
• Avoid sun exposure: Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily for at least two weeks prior to your chemical peel.
• Avoid using harsh skin care products: Avoid using abrasive scrubs, exfoliants, facial masks, self-tanners, or skin-lightening agents for at least 48 hours before your chemical peel.
• Stay hydrated: Proper hydration helps to improve skin health and promote healing, so be sure to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your chemical peel.
• Plan for downtime: Depending on the depth of your chemical peel, you may experience some redness, flaking, and peeling for several days after the treatment. Plan accordingly and avoid social events or activities that may cause you discomfort or embarrassment.

After a chemical peel, it is normal to experience some redness, dryness, and mild swelling for the first few days. You may also notice some flakiness or peeling of the skin, which can last for 3-10 days, depending on the depth of the peel. The type and depth of the chemical solution used will determine the degree of peeling and skin shedding.

It is important to avoid peeling, scratching, or picking at the skin, as this can lead to complications such as bleeding, infection, breakouts, and scarring. Instead, use a gentle moisturizer to soothe the skin and allow it to shed naturally. It is also recommended to avoid exfoliating the skin after a chemical peel, as it has already been exfoliated during the treatment.

• Follow Dr. Rokhsar’s instructions: It is essential to listen to your doctor, as he/she will give you specific instructions on what to do and what to avoid after the treatment.
• Avoid sun exposure: After a chemical peel, your skin is more sensitive to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Therefore, it is essential to stay out of direct sunlight, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when you go outside.
• Keep your skin hydrated: Chemical peels can temporarily compromise your skin’s protective barrier, so it’s crucial to reinforce that barrier with a medium-to-thick moisturizer. Also, drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, which could make your skin feel tight.
• Be gentle with your skin: Avoid rubbing or scrubbing your skin. Instead, use gentle cleansers and cool water to wash your face. Pat your skin dry gently with a soft towel.
• Avoid picking or peeling your skin: Let your skin heal naturally. Picking or peeling can cause scarring or other damage to your skin.
• Take pain relievers if necessary: If you experience discomfort or pain, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin, acetaminophen, naproxen, or ibuprofen.

The duration of a chemical peel’s effects can vary depending on the type of peel used and the individual’s skin type and condition. Generally speaking, light or superficial peels that use gentle components can produce results that last for one to two months. Medium peels, which use slightly stronger acids, can produce results that last for two to six months. Deeper peels, which are used for more severe skin conditions, can produce long-lasting and dramatic results that can last up to 10 years. These peels are however risky with a high incidence of scarring and infection. The longevity of a chemical peel’s results also depends on the individual’s skincare routine and sun protection habits, as well as any lifestyle factors that may affect the skin’s health.

The cost of a chemical peel can vary widely depending on several factors such as the type of peel, the depth of the peel, the provider’s level of experience, their practice location, and the size of the area being treated.

There are a few common recommendations that can help with the peeling process after a chemical peel. These include using a light moisturizer to prevent overdrying, avoiding exposure to the sun and other sources of heat, avoiding strenuous physical activity, and using a gentle cleanser. Additionally, cold compresses can help reduce discomfort and swelling.

It is tempting to try to speed up the peeling process, but doing so may be counterproductive and may lead to complications such as scarring or infection. Therefore, it is crucial to be patient and allow the skin to heal naturally.

Breakouts are a common occurrence after a chemical peel, especially if you have oily skin. The following steps can help treat breakouts and prevent further complications:

• Use an antibacterial face wash twice a day to help prevent infection and minimize breakouts.
• Apply a thick layer of moisturizer before bed to help soothe the skin and prevent dryness.
• Avoid peeling, touching, picking, or scratching the skin after a chemical peel, as it can lead to bleeding, infections, breakouts, and scarring.
• Do not exfoliate your skin after a chemical peel as it can further irritate the skin.
• Cleanse your skin with cool water and pat it dry gently to avoid further inflammation.
• Take pain relievers like aspirin, acetaminophen, naproxen, or ibuprofen to reduce any pain and discomfort associated with the chemical peel.
• Contact Dr. Rokhsar’s office for a prescription for oral antibiotics to treat your breakouts.