Chemical Peels

As the name would suggest, with a chemical peel we apply a special formulation that includes a chemical such as glycolic acid to your skin. This solution gently exfoliates and removes the damaged surface layers of skin to reveal the new and healthy cells underneath. As a result, chemical peels can reduce areas of hyperpigmentation, redness associated with rosacea, acne, fine lines and wrinkles, and other skin issues, leaving your skin looking refreshed and radiant.

Different strength skin peels are available. Superficial peels concentrate on the outer layers of the skin and cause minimal peeling, whereas medium peels penetrate deeper within the dermis and may cause more peeling. Deep peels cause severe peeling and some downtime. Here at Carnaby Laser Clinic and Academy, we offer superficial to medium depth peels from I IMAGE Skincare’s I PEEL range.

Some skin peels should only be administered by a suitably trained aesthetic practitioner. This is because the chemicals in these peels are strong enough to cause skin damage if not applied correctly. By having a professional-strength skin peel, you can benefit from being given the right treatment for your individual skin concerns and receive targeted advice about enhancing the results with your at-home skincare routine.

You may only need a single peel for your skin to look noticeably improved. Many people choose to have a fresh peel each time they feel their skin needs a boost. If you choose to have a superficial peel, we may recommend a course of three to five peels to give you the best results.

The results of your treatment will depend on the depth of the peel. You should experience the benefits of a superficial peel for between one and two months; the results of medium peels typically last for longer, but may require several days’ downtime post-treatment if you feel self-conscious about peeling.

Dermatologists have been performing chemical peels for more than 50 years, although the use of certain food acids for peeling purposes dates back to the Ancient Egyptians. Due to the prevalence of skin peels, they are supported by extensive research and an excellent safety record.

Although superficial to medium peels are well tolerated by all skin types, it is important to seek treatment from an experienced aesthetic professional who can identify the best peel for you.

Superficial peels

If you have a superficial skin peel, you will probably feel a mild stinging sensation when the peel is applied and your face may look slightly pink after the solution is removed. It’s common for your face to take on a blotchy appearance, which will self-correct within a couple of hours. Some people experience mild peeling while others see no peeling at all.

Occasionally, people experience hyperpigmentation as the result of a superficial peel, although you can help to protect against this by wearing a high factor sunscreen after your treatment. In rare cases, people have reported skin infections or an outbreak of cold sores – if you’re a cold sore sufferer, do let us know in advance.

 

Medium depth peels

With slightly stronger, medium depth peels you may experience some redness, as well as a burning and stinging sensation for 30 minutes to an hour post-treatment.

Over the next few days, your face may turn darker brown in colour with streaks of white appearing amongst the brown. Your skin will then start to peel, lasting over a five- to six-day period, during which time it may feel quite itchy. After the peeling, your skin may initially look quite red but gradually fade to a fresh pink tone.

Apply a high factor sunscreen to protect against brown spots of hyperpigmentation. In very rare cases – usually at the hands of an inexperienced practitioner – scarring has been reported but is extremely unlikely in the right hands.

We will give you detailed aftercare instructions following a chemical peel, depending on the type of peel you choose. With all peels, remember to wear a high factor sunscreen to protect your newly exposed skin from sun damage.