Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a treatment used to resurface the skin and promote the regeneration of skin cells. The peel will help shed the top layers of the skin to improve the overall appearance of the skin, stimulate collagen production, improve pigmentation, sun damage, acne, fine lines, wrinkles, redness and even Rosacea. There are many types of chemical peels to suit different skin conditions and patient concerns. Chemical peels are categorised into superficial, medium and deep depending on the depth of the skin that the peel is able to penetrate. Dermaplaning can also be used in conjunction with chemical peels for improved penetration. Downtime of the skin will also vary in accordance with which category the peel fits into. For example, a peel from the superficial category will have minimal downtime as opposed to a peel from the deep category which will result in greater recovery time.
A local anaesthetic cream is applied and allowed to take affect for up to an hour. Then the nurse moves the SkinPen hand-piece around the face, gently stamping the skin to stimulate cell production and skin repair. Unlike other micro-needling treatments, SkinPen does not promote bleeding. Redness is normal, indicating a good result and will subside quickly. The procedure takes 90 minutes in total.
Common Questions
During the consultation, your clinician will examine your skin and discuss what products you may need before your chemical peel. Generally, a serum containing the key ingredient of the peel is recommended to allow the skin to become accustomed to the ingredient before the full strength chemical peel is performed. The serum will generally need to be used in the 2 weeks leading up to your peel, but this time frame may vary from patient to patient. Laser treatments on the face must be avoided for 1 week prior to undertaking a peel procedure.
Upon arrival, you will be asked to fill out a consultation form which will include questions about your skin type, medical conditions, previous treatments, etc. You will then have a private discussion with an experienced clinician who will assess your individual requirements, suggest a tailored plan and take you through the details of the treatment including pre-care and aftercare. This will also give you the opportunity to have any questions or queries regarding your treatment answered.
Most patients are able to tolerate chemical peels without much discomfort. Some patients report that they experience a warm to hot sensation and/or tingling.
Yes, chemical peels are safe. At Clinica Lase, you can always be sure that your safety is our first priority. We pride ourselves on our knowledge, experience, and on our thorough consultations that ensure we have all the necessary information to minimise the risk of complications. Also, we only use chirally correct cosmeceuticals for our peel procedures and homecare preparations. Please refer to our product tab for further information on all our available product ranges.
Side effects of chemical peels can vary from peel to peel due to the difference in ingredients, etc. The most common side effects experienced post peels are flaking, peeling, and mild dryness. These are POSITIVE side effects as it demonstrates regeneration of the skin cells to improve the skin. Not all patients will experience the above side effects as it will depend on the peel used and many other factors.
Avoid direct sun exposure for 5-10 days post procedure. This also includes the use of solariums. Physical sun protection is mandatory and must be an SPF of 30. Waxing and hair removal procedures should be avoided for 7-14 days post procedure. Facial treatments are not advised for a minimum of 14 days post procedure. No strenuous activity is to be undertaken for 24 hours post procedure. This also includes Bikram Yoga and the use of steam rooms and saunas. Exfoliating products are not to be used for 3 -5 days or as advised by your clinician. If you develop any scabbing on the treated area DO NOT pick the skin. Contact your clinician and they will advise you on the correct protocol. Correct product use post peel procedure is very important to avoid further compromising the skin. This will be discussed with your clinician during your consultation and the correct formulas will be recommended.