Light Chemical Peels on Long Island, NY
Chemical peeling involves the application of a chemical exfoliant (acid or base) to remove layers of damaged skin.
Light Chemical Peels are graded (very superficial to deep) depending on the depth of penetration and the layer of skin that is removed with a peel. Depending on the amount and depth of photodamage, real improvement in sun spots, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation may require different depths of chemical peels. Dr. Marotta performs Medium (Jessner 35% TCA) to Deep (Bakers Phenol) Chemical Peels.
A chemical peel is one of the most versatile treatments in aesthetic medicine, capable of addressing everything from dullness to deep facial lines. By applying a specialized chemical solution to the skin, we accelerate the body's natural exfoliation process, removing dead skin cells and stimulating the growth of healthy, new skin.
Because we offer a range of depths, from light chemical exfoliation to deep chemical peels, most patients are good candidates for treatment. Those with sensitive skin or darker skin tones can be safely treated with specific formulations designed to avoid irritation or uneven pigmentation. You may be an ideal candidate if you are looking to correct fine lines and wrinkles, actinic keratosis, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
However, specific medical factors must be considered. During your consultation, we will review your history, including the use of birth control pills or retinoic acid, and check for issues like cold sores near the treatment area. While medium-depth peels are effective for many issues, patients with severe acne scars or extremely deep scars may sometimes be better served by laser resurfacing or other cosmetic treatments.
Medium depth chemical peels are performed using Jessners 35% TCA solution. They may be performed under local anesthesia in the office or in the operating room under sedation. The agent is applied to the face evenly and the depth of penetration carefully monitored. Deep chemical peels are mixed by Dr. Marotta using phenol and other ingredients in various concentrations to make Hetter’s Peel or Baker’s Phenol solutions. These peels are performed under IV sedation and monitoring. Deep chemical peels are only appropriate for select patients.
The skin may appear red and swollen immediately following the procedure. The swelling is more pronounced with a deep chemical peel.
The skin will turn brown over 48 hours and slough over the next 7-10 days. Make-up and sunscreen/moisturizer can then be used. The underlying skin will appear pinker and healthier. This pink appearance completely fades in 2-3 weeks and easily covered with make-up. Continued improvement from these peels can be seen even up to a year following the procedure. A medium depth peel can be repeated every 6 months to 1 year. A deep chemical peel can only be done once.
The peeling process and results depend heavily on the depth of the peel. A light chemical peel typically results in mild flaking for five to seven days, revealing brighter, youthful skin quickly. A medium chemical peel or deep chemical peel, often utilizing trichloroacetic acid (TCA), will produce more significant peeling as the skin heals, a process that can take up to two weeks.
Once the treated skin recovers, the improvements are often dramatic. Patients notice a visible reduction in fine wrinkles, smoother skin texture, and a more even skin color. While superficial peels offer a temporary refresh, deeper treatments can create a semi-permanent improvement in skin appearance. Collagen production continues to ramp up for up to eight weeks, meaning your results often get better with time.
The cost of Light Chemical Peels varies significantly based on the intensity of the treatment. A mild facial peel is generally more affordable than medium-depth peels or a deep peel, which require more clinical time and specific aftercare. At Marotta Plastic Surgery Specialists, we prioritize safety and efficacy. Your care is directed by a team trained to the standards of a top dermatologic surgeon and facial plastic surgeon. We believe in transparency; during your consultation, we will provide a detailed breakdown of costs for your personalized plan, helping you choose the appropriate chemical peel for your budget and aesthetic goals.
You may feel a warming sensation or slight stinging while the peeling agent is on your skin. For deeper TCA peels, we may use local anesthesia or cooling measures to ensure comfort. Any discomfort usually subsides once the solution is neutralized.
If you receive a light peel, you can typically wear makeup the next day. For medium chemical peels, you will need to wait until the outer layer of skin has healed to prevent infection or irritation.
Superficial peels require zero downtime. Medium peels and deep chemical peels involve a noticeable peeling process, and many patients prefer to take a few days off while the old skin sheds and the new skin emerges.
Sun protection is critical. The fresh outermost layer is highly sensitive to UV light. You must avoid direct sun exposure and use high-SPF sunscreen to prevent allergic reactions or hyperpigmentation.
Yes. While light peels target fine lines, a deep peel is designed to improve deeper wrinkles and significant sun damage. We can combine peels with other aesthetic surgery procedures for comprehensive rejuvenation.
We are able to capture face, breast, and body images in ultra-high resolution 3D, to show our patients the exciting possibilities of their simulated aesthetic procedures.
When you schedule your consultation with Marotta Plastic Surgery Specialists, you can feel secure that the decision you are making is the right one for you. Dr. Marotta’s expertise and skill make him a top Long Island plastic surgeon who enjoys answering your questions. Schedule your consultation today to begin your journey to looking good and feeling good.
895 West Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown, NY 11787
Mon-Thurs: 9am – 7pm
Friday: 9am – 5pm
Sat: 9am - 2pm (MedSpa services only)
Sun: Closed
