CHEMICAL Skin PEELS

Your patient journey starts with a chat by phone – or email – to discuss your treatment objectives and the results you are looking to achieve.

We then arrange an in-depth consultation with one of our team, to assess your skin and decide the optimal treatment choices for you.

Virtual consultations are also possible, with the reassurance that we always then assess you in person before undertaking any treatment, to get a clear understanding of your unique skin and facial structure.

When creating your treatment plan, the goal is long-term, sustainable improvements for your skin and overall wellbeing, with continuous care throughout your time with us. The initial consultation helps us ascertain the best options for you, whether that's simply popping in for occasional medifacials or entrusting us with longer term facial rejuvenation.

You'll be able to ask any questions and, we'll make sure you are fully informed and comfortable with all the options. In short, you're in safe hands and we'll guide you through, led by how you're hoping to feel after treatment.

The range of aesthetic treatments can be overwhelming so we're here to advise you on the best path for you and there is never any pressure to book treatment.

By exfoliating the outer layer of dead skin cells, chemical peels (otherwise known as skin peels) promote cell turnover and improve skin texture, tone and appearance.

Chemical peels treat a wide range of skin issues and are typically recommended for people with sun damage, acne and acne scarring, oily or congested skin, enlarged pores, dull or dry skin, uneven texture, hyperpigmentation, melasma and / or lines and wrinkles.

Peels are available in different depths which target varying levels of skin concerns: the deeper the peel, the more intense its effect on skin and its ability to address more serious skin concerns. Deeper peels require more downtime so this is a consideration when opting for treatment.

Skin peels may not be an option for people with sensitive skin, active skin conditions (like eczema or rosacea), or those with a history of keloid scarring - your practitioner will advise about your suitability and the different peels available for your skin concerns.

Chemical peels are acid-based treatments which help remove the outer layers of skin, promoting smoother, fresher skin with improved texture and tone.

Peels contain different types of acids to exfoliate the skin and vary in their depth and formulation, ranging from mild acids for superficial peels to stronger acids for deeper peels. Common acid-based ingredients include glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), and phenol.

The chemicals in the peel break down the bonds between skin cells, causing the top layer to peel off. This process reveals smoother, fresher skin underneath, often improving the skin's texture, tone, and appearance. Additionally, chemical peels can stimulate collagen production, which helps improve skin elasticity over time. Depending on the depth of the peel, recovery time can vary, with superficial peels requiring little downtime and deeper peels needing more time to heal.

Preparation and after care for a skin peel is vital to ensure good skin health, optimal results and a comfortable experience.

Before a peel, we advise you to:

• avoid sun exposure for 2 weeks

• discontinue skincare with active ingredients e.g. retinol, acids, vitamin c for 5 days

• avoid aspirin, ibuprofen & Omega-3 supplements for 2 days before

• avoid waxing or shaving the area, if relevant

After care advice will vary by peel but, in general, you would be advised to:

• not apply makeup for at least 24 hours

• keep your skin moisturised

• protect your skin with a full-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily, even indoors

• avoid direct sun exposure for at least 2 weeks (new skin is more sensitive to UV damage)

• avoid extreme temperatures for at least 2 weeks (eg sauna, steam room, hot climates)

• cleanse with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser for several days

• resist the urge to pick or peel skin as this can cause scarring or infection

• avoid skincare with active ingredients for at least a week (e.g. retinoids, exfoliating acids, alcohol)

• stay hydrated to support the healing process

• avoid heavy exercise, sweating, or activities that might irritate or overheat

After a chemical peel, you may experience some redness, tightness, peeling or the feeling of mild sunburn.

The healing time for a chemical peel depends on the depth of the peel:

Superficial peels: typically involve minimal downtime. Skin may be slightly red and irritated for a few hours to a couple of days, with mild peeling or flaking occurring within 2-3 days. Full recovery usually takes around 5-7 days.

Medium peels: cause more noticeable peeling and redness. Recovery may take 7-10 days, with peeling lasting up to a week. The skin may feel sensitive and slightly swollen during this time.

Deep peels: require the longest recovery time. Redness, swelling, and peeling can last for 2-3 weeks, with full healing taking several weeks to a few months. Deep peels may also require more intensive aftercare.

During the healing process, it’s important to follow aftercare instructions carefully, including avoiding sun exposure, using any moisturising and healing products your practitioner recommends, and keeping the skin protected.

You would typically see results from a PCA skin peel at around 1-2 weeks, with optimal results at 12 weeks.

These results last on average around 9 to 12 months.

Typically you would have 3 PCA skin peels, at 4 week intervals. Then treatment at 9 to 12 months if you'd like to continue results.