Chemical Skin Peel

Chemical skin peels are non-invasive procedures that can rejuvenate the appearance of the skin and result in a youthful glow, making it a popular cosmetic treatment. The treatment can be used on the face, neck and hands to give the complexion a boost. It can be used to achieve more radiant skin or lessen the appearance of a number of serious skin conditions while still being simple and efficient.

Chemical peels work by removing the damaged layer of skin from the area being treated using a chemical reaction. The result reveals a newer, healthier layer of skin. The solution applied during the procedure causes trauma to the outer layer, or the epidermis, of the skin causing it to peel away. As the skin naturally heals the increased cell growth means new, healthier skin layers.

There are several different types of chemical skin peels to choose from, all achieving different results. If you’re unsure which one is best for your skin type and concerns, a professional will be able to advise you.

Glycolic Peel

A glycolic peel can be used for freshening up skin that has a tired and dull appearance. It can be used on all skin types, including sensitive skin. In order to achieve maximum visible results, a course of six treatments is recommended over a six-week period. To maintain results a peel once a month is suggested.

Salicylic Peel
For those suffering with acne or oily skin, want to diminish wrinkles and fine lines or have sensitive skin, a salicylic peel can be used. It can also accelerate a skincare programme being used to treat acne. Normally several sessions are needed to achieve results but this will depend on the condition of the skin. Generally between six and ten sessions are needed before results are noticeable.

Trichloroacetic Acid Peel
While a Trichloroacetric acid peel (sometimes called a TCA peel) can treat wrinkles and fine lines, diminish uneven pigmentation and soften acne scars, it is not recommended for those with dark skin or fine, sensitive skin. The treatment normally consists of between one and three procedures and if multiple peels are needed, these will be performed a month apart.

Modified Jessner Peel
A modified Jessner peel is a fantastic solution for improving skin clarity and clearing blocked pores. It can be used to help reduce the appearance of acne and acne scars, as well as pigmentation. Sometimes a single treatment is all that is needed but in other cases, such as if you have active acne, a course of three treatments may be required.

Multi Mask Peel
The multi mask peel has been developed to achieve results specifically for those with skin suffering from pigmentation problems, including those caused by hormonal factors such as after pregnancy. The peel is highly effective for melasma and chloasma and those that have developed skin pigmentation due to environmental or sun damage. Only one peel is needed, which is then followed by a 28-day course of skin creams.

Chemical skin peels typically take just 30 minutes to complete. The amount of downtime needed after treatment will depend on the type of skin peel you choose, some have no down time at all while following others you may need a maximum of a 10 day recovery period. Whichever option you choose your skin will be more sensitive following the procedure and you should use sun block to protect it.

While chemical skin peels can achieve healthier looking skin the best results are achieved and maintained if the right skin care is used on a regular basis. When you have your treatment you can ask for advice on how best to maintain the results.

The cost of a skin peel will depend on the type you choose. Prices start from £60 for a mild glycolic peel but deeper peels can cost up to £1,600.