Chemical Peel

Medical-grade chemical peels using alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), beta-hydroxy acids (BHA), TCA, or proprietary blends to exfoliate and resurface the skin at controlled depth. Addresses uneven skin tone, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and acne. Light to medium peels are appropriate for most skin types and require minimal downtime. Supervised by StudioMD's physician team at SoHo and Midtown Manhattan — customised to skin type and concern.

Chemical peels at StudioMD are physician-supervised exfoliation treatments that apply a chemical agent to the skin to dissolve the bonds between dead and damaged cells in the superficial or mid-depth layers of the epidermis and superficial dermis. Superficial peels using alpha-hydroxy acids (glycolic acid 20–70%, lactic acid, mandelic acid) or beta-hydroxy acid (salicylic acid 20–30%) loosen the stratum corneum and superficial granular layer, producing mild exfoliation with no true wound and minimal to no downtime — appropriate as a maintenance treatment or for sensitive or darker skin types. Medium-depth peels using trichloroacetic acid (TCA) at concentrations of 15–35%, or Jessner's solution primed with TCA, extend the depth of chemical injury into the papillary dermis, stimulating more significant collagen remodelling, and are associated with five to seven days of peeling and social downtime. The physician selects the peel agent, concentration, and number of passes based on the patient's Fitzpatrick skin type, specific concern (acne-prone, pigmented, sun-damaged, ageing), and prior treatment history. Chemical peels are particularly effective for hyperpigmentation (melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne), solar keratoses, rough texture, and superficial fine lines. At StudioMD, peels are often combined with other modalities including microneedling or laser therapy as part of a multi-step skin health protocol. Post-peel sun avoidance and SPF use are essential. NYC market pricing for medical-grade peels ranges from approximately $150 to $400 per session depending on depth and agent.