Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are primarily used to improve your appearance by improving the tone and texture of your skin and address various skin issues, including:

• Acne: They can help reduce acne and acne scars.
• Wrinkles and Fine Lines: Chemical peels can minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
• Uneven Skin Tone: They can improve skin tone and reduce the visibility of sunspots, age spots, and hyperpigmentation.
• Texture: Chemical peels can improve rough skin, scaly patches, dull complexion and make the skin smoother and softer.
• Scarring: They may reduce the appearance of certain types of scars, such as those caused by acne or injury
• Precancerous lesions: They can treat those scaly spots called actinic keratosis.

Chemical peels are primarily used to improve your appearance by improving the tone and texture of your skin and address various skin issues, including:

• Acne: They can help reduce acne and acne scars.
• Wrinkles and Fine Lines: Chemical peels can minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
• Uneven Skin Tone: They can improve skin tone and reduce the visibility of sunspots, age spots, and hyperpigmentation.
• Texture: Chemical peels can improve rough skin, scaly patches, dull complexion and make the skin smoother and softer.
• Scarring: They may reduce the appearance of certain types of scars, such as those caused by acne or injury
• Precancerous lesions: They can treat those scaly spots called actinic keratosis.

Chemical peels are typically more effective for individuals with fair skin tones, but they can also be used on all skin types with superficial peels. However, those with naturally darker skin tones should exercise caution, as they may be at a higher risk of experiencing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which can result in darkening of the skin after treatment. It is recommended to consult a dermatologist for advice on alternative treatments that are less aggressive and may reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation. Additionally, chemical peeling may not be suitable for individuals who:

• Have a history of abnormal skin scarring.
• Have extra colouring in your scars.
• Have any skin conditions or take medications that make your skin more sensitive, please let us know to ensure we can provide you with the best possible care.
• Are undergoing isotretinoin treatment for acne.
• have a personal or family history of scar tissue abnormalities such as keloid scars
• Have open sores, lesions, infections, or chronic skin conditions that are not well-managed, please seek medical attention.
• Spend significant time outdoors without sun protection or during the healing period.

The different types are determined by the strength of the chemical peel and how deeply the layers of skin are affected. There are three main types of chemical peels:

• Superficial Peels: These are the mildest type and involve the use of a mild acid, such as alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). They target the outermost layer of skin and require little to no downtime.
• Medium Peels: These use a stronger acid, like trichloroacetic acid (TCA), to penetrate deeper into the skin. They require some downtime for recovery.
• Deep Peels: These are the most aggressive and use strong acids like phenol. They can provide more dramatic results but also require longer recovery times and may have more risks.

The procedure typically involves the following steps:

• The skin is cleansed thoroughly.
• The chemical solution is applied to the targeted area.
• The solution is left on the skin for a specific period, depending on the type and depth of the peel.
• The solution is neutralised or washed off.

Afterward, the skin may be treated with customised medications, ointments or creams to treat the conditions as well as soothing and protecting the skin.

The results may varies depending on the depth of the peel and type of the acid used. Superficial peels may have minimal downtime, while deep peels can take several weeks for complete healing. When a professional uses the appropriate chemical peel solution for your skin type, you should experience great results with minimal discomfort and downtime.

• Immediate results: Professional grade, advanced peel blends exfoliate the top layers of the skin at a microscopic level. This action tightens the skin, unblocks clogged pores and improves fine lines. Skin is left feeling smoother and softer.
• Usually no peeling, flaking or irritation: Most patients do not experience peeling or flaking skin after treatment. This will vary depending on the skin type and type of peel being used, but most peels no longer result in flaking skin.
• No downtime: A well prescribed and blended peel will not trigger effects that cause the need to hide until they’re gone. You should be able to continue life as usual.
• A slight increase in sensitivity: Your skin will likely feel sensitive for a few days after the treatment. This is when you can aid recovery following aftercare advice.

After your treatment, your dermatologist will provide you with personalised recommendations for products and instructions on how to use them. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results, especially for more severe skin issues.

Recovery time varies depending on the depth of the peel. During the recovery period, it’s essential to protect the skin from the sun and follow post-procedure instructions carefully.

• Wash your face with cool water.
• Moisturize and hydrate: It is important to use a thick moisturiser after peels to reinforce the skin’s protective barrier. Increase water intake to avoid dehydration.
• Apply sunscreen with factor 50 protection: Your skin is more sensitive after a chemical peel. To prevent further damage, avoiding sun exposure and using a physical sunscreen if necessary.
• Avoid strenuous workouts, dry saunas and steam rooms: It is best to avoid activities that increase blood circulation to the face, as they can intensify uncomfortable side effects such as warming, tingling, itching, and redness on freshly peeled skin. It is recommended to skip such activities on the day of using a peel.
• Don’t over-exfoliate: Peels are powerful exfoliants, which means you don’t need to use a separate exfoliating product such as a scrub, brush or cleanser that has exfoliating properties within 3-4 days of having a peel. Over-exfoliating can cause your skin to become more sensitive and appear redder, so it’s important to wait until your skin has fully recovered before using any additional exfoliating products.

Additional peels may be repeated every two to five weeks until you achieve your desired results. Typically, three to five peels are needed to achieve your goal

Chemical peels can have side effects, including:

• Redness, swelling, peeling
• Changes in skin pigmentation: darkening or lightening of the skin 
• Cold sores return if you had them before the treatment.
• Scarring or an infection – although this is rare
• Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun after treatment, so it’s important to use sunscreen regularly for at least a month.

Consult a qualified dermatologist to determine the most suitable type of peel for your skin type and concerns. Your practitioner should also advise you on minimising the risk of side effects and complications.