Chemical Peels

What are Chemical Peels?

A Chemical Peel is a chemical solution that enhances (or improves) the texture of your skin by removing the damaged outer layers. A chemical peel is a non-invasive way to improve the appearance of your skin.  There are three types of chemical peels – light, medium and deep. Your Dermal Therapist chooses the type of Chemical Peel based on your concerns, goals and skin type.  

What will Chemical Peels treat?

• Acne and moderate acne scarring
• Age and liver spots
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Lighten freckles
• Rough skin and scaly patches
• Sun damaged skin      

What are the desired results?

Light Chemical Peel: Subtle improvement at first, improving to a healthy glow with more treatments.
Medium Chemical Peel: Your skin will be noticeably smoother and fresher in appearance.
Deep Chemical Peel: Results are dramatic, but recovery takes longer.  

Is it painful?

Light Chemical Peel: mild tingling
Medium Chemical Peel: mild burning or stinging
Deep Chemical Peel: moderate burning or stinging  

What are the side effects?

Redness and slight swelling occur after a chemical peel. Peeling, crusting or flaking skin may persist for several days.  

What are the potential risks?

Hyper-pigmentation (when too much pigment occurs causing brownish blotches) Avoid this by always using a daily SFP 30+ Your skin will be more sensitive to sun exposure and burning.  

What are the pre and post care instructions?

Using a Retinol/Topical Vitamin A and an AHA cleanser is important to prepare the skin before treatment. Prepping the skin greatly improves the overall result after a chemical peel. As the skin may feel dehydrated using moisturizers to rehydrate the skin will alleviate any tightness. Refrain from immediate strenuous exercise to avoid perspiration. Refrain from sun exposure and use SPF 30+ daily.  

How many treatments are needed?

Light Chemical Peel: Monthly
Medium Chemical Peel: biannually
Deep Chemical Peel: Annually  

What skincare is recommended?

• Retinol
• AHAs
• BHAs
• Moisturiser
• SPF30+  

Are there any conditions where Chemical Peels are not recommended?

• History of abnormal scarring
• Keloid scars
• Abnormal pigmentation
• Allergy to penicillin
• Allergy to salicylic acid
• Skin Fitzpatrick 3+ (Asian, Indian or African skin types)
• Roaccutane
• Pregnancy