Chemical Peels

in Albany, NY

What is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is an in-office treatment that rejuvenates the skin by encouraging cellular turnover. This process can remove dead or damaged skin cells to reveal a new, healthy layer of skin. A chemical peel process can be customized according to specific skin needs with various types of acids and depths.

  • A light chemical peel targets the most superficial layer of the skin, the epidermis. These peels help address surface concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dryness.
  • A medium depth peel penetrates somewhat deeper and may require some downtime. Redness and peeling are common side effects. Medium depth peels address pigmentation, acne scarring, sun damage, and wrinkles. 
  • A deep chemical peel is performed by a physician, usually requiring anesthesia. Deep peels require significant downtime and target deep wrinkles and skin laxity.

The best type of chemical peel for you and your goals can be determined during your consultation with our skincare experts.

Who is a Candidate for a Chemical Peel?

During your consultation, our skincare experts will carefully determine whether a chemical peel is the best solution for you and your goals. Chemical peels carry the risk of hyperpigmentation during recovery, so darker skin tones or skin types that are prone to scarring may not be good candidates. Additionally, certain medications or treatments can be caused to delay your chemical peel in order to ensure your skin is in the best condition to receive this treatment.

Who is a Candidate for a Chemical Peel?

During your consultation, our skincare experts will carefully determine whether a chemical peel is the best solution for you and your goals. Chemical peels carry the risk of hyperpigmentation during recovery, so darker skin tones or skin types that are prone to scarring may not be good candidates. Additionally, certain medications or treatments can be caused to delay your chemical peel in order to ensure your skin is in the best condition to receive this treatment.

What Happens During a Chemical Peel?

First, the treatment area (usually the face) is cleansed and prepared for treatment. Then, the chosen chemical solution is lightly brushed over the skin and left for a predetermined amount of time, which is dependent on the depth of your specific peel. The chemical solution used for this treatment can also vary, depending on your skin type and goals. After the appropriate amount of time has passed, the chemical solution is gently rinsed from the skin, and the treatment area is neutralized if the peel is deep. The skin is then prepared for the recovery period.

Chemical Peel FAQs

Is a chemical peel safe?

A chemical peel is very safe when performed by an experienced skincare specialist under the oversight of a board-certified plastic surgeon.

What is the strongest type of peel?

A deep chemical peel is the strongest type but may be formulated from different chemical solutions based on your needs

Can you wear makeup after a chemical peel?

You can wear makeup the day after your peel, but make sure to be gentle when applying it. Stay away from harsh skin products and opt for light mineral products instead.

How many layers of skin does a chemical peel remove?

This can depend on your unique chemical peel package. Light peels may remove only the surface of the skin while deeper peels may reach down to the upper dermis layer.

Can chemical peels remove dark spots?

A chemical peel is an effective way to remove unwanted pigmentation - however, you may need a package of treatments for best results.

Can I wash my face after a chemical peel?

It’s best to avoid washing your face for the first 24 hours. After this point, you can wash it with a gentle, unscented cleanser. Make sure to avoid scrubbing or exfoliating.

Can you see results after 1 peel?

Yes - you’ll see noticeably brighter and more even-toned skin after a chemical peel. For tougher concerns like pigmentation or aging signs, you may need subsequent treatments.

How long does a chemical peel take to heal?

This can depend on the depth of your peel. A light chemical peel may only take a few days to heal while deeper peels may take a few weeks or more.

What should you not do after a chemical peel?

It’s important to avoid picking or scrubbing your skin after a chemical peel, especially after it begins peeling. Make sure to use only a gentle cleanser and moisturizer and use SPF 30+ daily.

What should I avoid before a chemical peel?

Before your chemical peel, you should avoid hair removal and harsh skincare products and treatments. If you use active ingredients like retinol, stop using it at least two weeks ahead of your appointment.

What Can I Expect After Treatment?

Your chemical peel recovery can be very different depending on what depth of peel you undergo. You may experience redness and irritation at the treatment site with eventual flaking and peeling of the treated skin. Your skincare expert will go over all post-peel treatment guidelines with you. With every type of peel, it’s highly important to avoid exposure to sunlight during your recovery, since your treated skin will be especially sensitive to sun damage and pigmentation.

A chemical peel can be a great way to rejuvenate your skin and reveal a healthy, youthful layer. To see what a chemical peel can do for you, contact our office and schedule a consultation with Dr. Kayastha and our skincare specialists.

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Dr. Kayastha is a board certified plastic surgeon who serves Albany, NY and the entire Capital Region. Dr. Kayastha completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University and graduated with distinction in all subjects. He then attended medical school at SUNY Buffalo. During his time in Buffalo he also completed a fellowship in surgical pathology at Roswell Park. Following medical school Dr. Kayastha gained a much sought after position in the Michigan State-Grand Rapids integrated plastic surgery residency. After finishing residency training Dr. Kayastha completed a one year fellowship in hand and microsurgery at the Buncke Clinic in San Francisco. To round out his training before starting private practice Dr. Kayastha spent an additional 6 months learning from some of the best cosmetic surgeons in San Francisco. Dr. Kayastha is Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

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