Chemical Peels

What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel is a non-surgical aesthetic procedure in which an acidic solution is applied to the skin, breaking the bonds between old skin cells and effectively sloughing off the outermost layer of old, dead skin. This removal of dead skin cells reveals new, fresh skin, encourages new skin cell development and boosts collagen production.

What conditions do chemical peels address?

Chemical peels are effective in treating a whole host of skin maladies from active acne, to acne scarring, uneven pigment to sun damage and fine lines, They are also great for rejuvenation, leaving skin looking radiant and fresh

What should I expect during treatment?

Most patients feel a mild tingling sensation, which is temporary and usually subsides after a few minutes.

What is the recovery?

Recovery times will vary based on the type and strength of the peel. Immediately after the peel, your skin will feel tight and may be red. Any visible peeling will be light and fluffy and easily controlled with moisturiser. Peeling usually lasts 3-5 days, depending on the actual peel treatment. Use of gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen is important, as it will enhance the healing process and results. Normal activity may be resumed after the peel, however strenuous exercise and heavy sweating should be avoided for 24 hours. Sun exposure should be avoided while skin is peeling; exposure of treated skin to a lot of heat should also be avoided as it may induce swelling/ redness. Peeling skin should be allowed to slough off naturally; picking or peeling of flaking skin is prohibited, as it may lead to scarring. Use of prescription topicals should be avoided for 3-5 days post peel.

Why did I not have any visible peeling after the treatment?

The success of the peel should not be judged by the amount of peeling, but by the end results that the peel will produce. The amount of peeling may vary depending on individual skin condition at the time of the peel or the depth of the peel. Regardless of the degree of peeling, the skin is still sloughing off at an accelerated rate, resulting in the improvement of skin tone and texture and an improvement of fine lines and uneven pigmentation.

Is one peel enough?

Unless one strong deeper peel is performed under controlled medical supervision the answer is no. Best results will be obtained through a series of four to six monthly peels rather than a one-off treatment. It is recommended to start light and build up gradually.

Are Chemical Peels Good For Your Skin?

Incredibly so. Chemical peels have a clever little way of starting a chain reaction, making your skin and skin care products work at their best. The acids lift any dead cells away, encouraging the living cells below to multiply and move up. This increases collagen production and creates more hyaluronic acid, giving your skin a lovely youthful and radiant appearance. Your skin care products will then be more effective as there are no dead cells getting in the way.

Different Types Of Chemical Peels Available

Depending on your skin type and the results you hope to achieve, we offer a range of professional strength chemical peels:

• Gel Peels – these superficial peels use mild acids to gently exfoliate, focusing only on the outermost layer of the skin. They are often nicknamed ‘lunchtime peels’ or ‘party peels’ as they’re a quick, light, and effective treatment with no down time.
• Glycolic Acid – derived from sugar cane, it is part of the Aplha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) family. Glycolic acid is made of small molecules which are able to penetrate the deeper layers of skin. Glycolic acid is able to stimulate fibroblasts in the dermis layer of skin, which means it is great for tackling fine lines and wrinkles. Glycolic Acid also works really well to reduce pigmentation and even out skin tone.
• Mandelic Acid – Derived from Almond milk, it is also part of the AHA family. Mandelic acid is made of larger molecules than its sister Glycolic Acid. This means it is much slower to penetrate the skin, making it gentle and great for all skin types, even sensitive ones. Mandelic Acid helps to exfoliate the top layer of skin, leaving the face looking fresh and glowing.
• Salicylic Acid – Derived from Willow Tree bark, it is part of the Beta Hyroxy Acid (BHA) family. Salicylic Acid is well known for its bacteria fighting properties, this is why it is great for blemish/acne prone skin types. Salicylic Acid is also great for reducing redness and inflammation caused by spots.
• Peel Combination – Depending on your particular skin needs, we can alternate between and sometimes incorporate multiple peels in to your treatment plan, to achieve your skin goals.

Chemical Peels For Acne

Chemical peels can help soothe acne-prone skin by smoothing out the texture and tone, lightening dark spots, and unclogging the pores to help prevent any future breakouts. The results depend on the severity of your acne and it’s likely we may combine a chemical peel with IPL Skin Rejuvenation and at home skin care for the best possible outcome.