Chemical Peel
The chemical peel process utilizes a variety of chemical solutions to remove damaged outer layers of skin, resulting in healthier and smoother facial skin. Chemical peels are helpful for Staten Island patients who have facial blemishes, wrinkles, or uneven skin pigmentation.
Is a Chemical Peel Right for Me?
Chemical peels are often performed to reduce visible signs of aging, such as sun spots, although they are also effective on acne scars and other facial blemishes not related to the aging process. While this treatment is usually used on the face, other areas of the body, particularly the neck and hands, may benefit from a facial peel.
Staten Island patients undergo chemical peels for a variety of reasons, including:
- Reduction of fine lines, including those found underneath the eyes or around the lips
- Improvement in wrinkles caused by heredity, sun damage, or aging
- Reduction pigmentation irregularities such as dark spots or freckles
- Smoothing of rough or dull skin
If you think a chemical peel might be right for you, view chemical peel before after photos. In general, Staten Island residents with light hair and fair skin respond best to chemical treatments, although newer formulations are able to effectively treat patients with darker skin. If you are currently taking Retin-A, Accutate, or Renova, you may not be a good candidate for chemical peels.
Procedure Details
Among the various chemicals used for a chemical peel are trichloroacetic acid (TCA), alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) and Phenol. These chemical solutions vary in the depth of penetration and the thickness of the layer of skin removed. A deep peel can result in the most drastic improvement, though it is also associated with a longer recovery period. Typically, AHA (including glycolic and lactic acid) is a milder peel, while those with TCA acid are medium-depth peels. Phenol is the deepest available chemical peel in Staten Island, New York.
The chemical peel is done in the doctor's office in under an hour, usually with local anesthetic. First, the phase is cleansed. Then, one or several chemicals are applied directly to the surface of the skin. This may be accompanied by a stinging or hot sensation. Over the next few days, the outer layer of the skin will peel off, like a sunburn. Underneath, the regenerated skin is smoother and healthier than the older layer.
Recovery After Chemical Peels
Recovery following a chemical peel may take anywhere from about two to ten days, depending on the strength of the chemicals applied to the skin. Staten Island patients typically experience a sunburn-like sensation, accompanied by skin redness and peeling skin, for about a week. The younger skin exposed by this treatment will be sensitive to sunlight for about six months, during which time it is crucial to wear sunscreen over the area at all times. Avoid makeup and any sun exposure for at least two weeks after the peel. If desired, patients can repeat mild peels after four to six weeks, while the treatment interval is about six to twelve months for deeper chemical peels. |