Menu

Chemical Peels at Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

At Dermatology Associates of Ithaca, chemical peels are used to refresh the skin, improve tone and texture, and restore a healthy glow with minimal downtime. Superficial chemical peels gently exfoliate the outer layers of skin to address concerns such as uneven pigmentation, fine lines, acne, and signs of sun damage.
For best results, chemical peels are typically performed as a series of treatments, allowing gradual improvement while maintaining skin health and safety. Our experienced providers will help determine whether a chemical peel is appropriate for your skin and goals.
Schedule a Chemical Peel Consultation

What Is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a professional exfoliation treatment that removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. By encouraging cell turnover, peels help improve skin clarity, smoothness, and overall appearance.
Chemical peels may help improve:
Uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation
Brown spots and acne-related discoloration
Fine lines and rough texture
Mild acne and congestion
Dull or photoaged skin
Results develop gradually over time, especially when peels are performed in a recommended series.

Who Can Benefit From a Chemical Peel?

Superficial chemical peels are ideal for patients seeking noticeable skin improvement with minimal downtime. They are commonly used to help manage:
Acne and acne-related discoloration
Rosacea-related redness
Melasma
Early signs of aging
Sun damage and uneven skin tone
Your provider will evaluate your skin type, concerns, and medical history to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan.

What to Expect During the Procedure

During your appointment:
  • Your skin will be cleansed and gently prepped
  • A peel solution is applied evenly to the skin
  • You may experience mild stinging or warmth for a few minutes
  • The peel will either self-neutralize or be neutralized by your provider
  • Post-treatment moisturizer and sunscreen are applied
The procedure is brief, and you may return to most normal activities the same day.
Schedule a Chemical Peel Consultation

Recovery and Results

After a chemical peel, you may experience:
  • Mild redness or tightness
  • Light peeling for one to three days
  • Temporary dryness or flaking
These effects are expected and usually resolve within several days. Improvements in skin tone, clarity, and texture occur gradually and are enhanced with repeated treatments.
Schedule a Chemical Peel Consultation

Important Safety Considerations

Chemical peels may not be appropriate for everyone. You should not receive a peel if you:
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have a history of keloid scarring
  • Have active cold sores or facial infections
  • Have had unprotected sun exposure or tanning within the past four weeks
  • Have used isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past six months
Your provider will review all risks and contraindications before treatment.

Dermatology Associates of Ithaca

Preparing for Your Chemical Peel

To ensure safe and effective treatment:
  • Stop retinoids, exfoliating products, benzoyl peroxide, and acids 2–3 days before treatment
  • Avoid waxing for at least 48 hours prior
  • Avoid sun exposure and tanning
  • Notify our office if you develop cold sores or facial irritation before your appointment
Schedule an Appointment

Aftercare Instructions

Following your peel:
  • Avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen daily
  • Cleanse gently with a mild cleanser
  • Apply fragrance-free moisturizer as needed
  • Do not pick or peel flaking skin
  • Restart retinoids 4–5 days after treatment, as directed
Proper aftercare helps maximize results and minimize side effects.
Schedule an Appointment

Chemical Peels and Acne Scarring

Chemical peels can help improve pigmentation related to acne, but they do not significantly improve deep or pitted acne scars. For textural acne scarring, laser-based treatments may be more appropriate and can be discussed during consultation.
Schedule an Appointment

Schedule a Chemical Peel Consultation

Interested in improving your skin’s tone and texture with minimal downtime? Our providers are here to help you determine if a chemical peel is right for you.
Call (607) 257-1107 to schedule an appointment
Request a Consultation

What Our Patients Say

4.9
stars rating on Google with 950+ reviews
Leave us a Review

Karen F.

I went for a facial with Reganne, and it was wonderful! She was the right balance of chatty and quiet so that I felt personally welcomed but also able to relax and soak in all the luxurious treatment. She also was so kind and considerate, being very careful which products she used because she knew I am sensitive to some fragrances. I scheduled my appointment for the end of my regular work week, and now, this evening I’m feeling fabulous!

RJ and MJ Olson

We both chose the practice for our dermatology well checks and any issues that may be discovered during those visits. Most of the practitioners have been great. I also enjoy the facial services they offer at the practice. Both estheticians I have seen there have been wonderful! They have both been very accommodating given multiple allergies that can make my skin reactive. I look forward to my time with the esthetician.

Cathy Robinson

The entire staff is courteous and very helpful. They were right on time. They work together well. They are accepting of questions and are willing to answer the questions. They offer reminders for follow up appointments. I am very pleased to be a patient of this office.

Susan Zeller

As a new patient I greatly appreciated getting an appointment with a few days of submitting my application form instead of a long wait. The staff at the front desk were very pleasant, efficient and helpful in making this happen. The service I received from my doctor was good.

Tom

David M was great in all key areas that were important to me. Skill, bedside manner, updates during the surgery and his summary after the procedure. His nurse was also first rate. Thank you both for all that you did for me. NP Donna has treated me previously at this practice and I echo my comments here for her and the nurses, reception and scheduling employees. Thank you all for a great experience

Jennifer Gemmell

This was the most pleasant doctors appointment I’ve ever experienced. The wait wasn’t too long and there were so many beautiful and interesting things to look at while I was there: beautiful art well presented with identification and background details, fascinating terrariums and other plants, and even an Asian meditation garden. Dr. Macallister was very personable, professional and thorough. I was quite happy with her care. The staff too, were professional and pleasant.

Reece W

Saw Donna and Megan, had a concerning spot on my face. I needed an injection and they put me eat ease and really helped me to feel comfortable and relaxed. Even though the needle stung a little bit I was completely distracted with easy conversation to keep my mind off of what was going on. They were incredibly reassuring and informative and I love going to see them! Thank you Donna and Megan for a quick and easy visit! :)

Don Wood

Great experience from the time I arrived for the appointment til I was finished. Donna Brigham is the most professional specailist I've seen in quite some time. She is very good at explaining everything in layman's terms. Her bedside manner puts you at ease and makes you very comfortable with the procedures she is doing.

Find Us on Socials

Join us on social media for expert guidance on skin health, treatment updates, and behind-the-scenes moments from our Ithaca and Cortland offices.

Contact Us

Have a question or ready to schedule? We’re here to help.