Peels

Peels Q&A

What is a chemical peel?

Chemical peels work through a topical solution that removes the outer, damaged layers of tissue, improving the tone, texture, and appearance of your skin. Sun exposure, acne, and aging can all cause wrinkles, discoloration, and scarring. Chemical peels improve your facial skin using different types of chemicals, depending on your needs.

Peels, which use glycolic or salicylic acid, can remove several layers of sun-damaged skin and even stimulate new collagen production. The Dermatology of Glens Falls team customizes a chemical peel treatment plan to deliver healthier, rejuvenated skin.

What skin concerns can chemical peels improve?

Chemical peels can improve the appearance of:

• Wrinkles and fine lines under your eyes and around your mouth
• Areas of darker skin pigmentation
• Sun damage
• Age spots and freckles
• Skin texture
• Acne scarring

Chemical peels are surface-level treatments, so they don’t treat deeper lines and severe wrinkles or tighten loose, sagging skin.

What are the different types of chemical peels?

The Dermatology of Glens Falls team offers three levels of chemical peels that address a variety of skin concerns. After careful examination, they recommend which peel is right for you.

Level 1 chemical peels

This type of surface peel rejuvenates sun-damaged skin and treats mild to severe acne. It also helps minimize the appearance of melasma (areas of darker pigmentation), moderate wrinkles, and actinic skin damage.

A Level 1 chemical peel provides mild to moderate exfoliation that lasts up to five days.

Level 2 chemical peels 

A Level 2 peel smooths fine lines and wrinkles, improves the appearance of acne, and reduces hyperpigmentation and melasma. This is also a mild to moderate exfoliating peel that lasts up to three days.

Level 3 chemical peels

This peel works on moderately to severely sun-damaged skin, including lines and wrinkles. It also provides a noticeable improvement in skin tone and texture after a single peel.

Level 3 chemical peels reduce active acne, acne scarring, and melasma as well. This peel provides moderate exfoliation that lasts up to five days.

In some cases, your Dermatology of Glens Falls provider may recommend chemical peels in conjunction with microdermabrasion treatments for the most visible improvement.

To learn which chemical peel is best for you, call the office or schedule a consultation online.