Chemical peels are often a great option for improving skin quality, and can reveal younger, brighter and smoother skin underneath the removed older, and damaged outer cell layers.
Often, an individual’s reasoning for choosing a peel treatment is to improve their skin’s appearance, and chemical solutions are applied to rid the skin of poor or damaged cells.
Chemical peels are most commonly applied to the face; however, the neck and hands can also be treated, and are used to:
- Reduce fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth
- Improve the appearance of mild scars
- Treat certain types of acne
- Treat wrinkles caused by sun-damage and aging
- Improve the look and feel of the skin
- Reduce age spots, freckles, and dark patches on the skin
Often, after a chemical peel, skin is temporarily more sensitive to the sun, so be sure to wear sunscreen every day. Opt for sun cream options that state ‘broad-spectrum’ on the label, this means it protects against the sun’s UVA and UVB rays.
Is a chemical peel right for you?
Generally, fair-skinned and light-haired patients are better candidates for chemical peels. If you have darker skin, you may gain great results depending upon the type of problem being treated.
However, always be sure to check with your specialist before any treatment. Here at The Aesthetic Skin Clinic – we work upon a consultation-before-treatment programme, and are dedicated to helping you find the right solution to suit your individual needs!
What to expect before a chemical peel
If you have any history of scarring, cold sores or facial X-rays – please inform your doctor before any treatment.
Before you get a chemical peel, your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain drugs and prepare your skin be using other medications. Before a chemical peel, your doctor will work with you in order to determine the depth of your peel. This decision will be based upon the condition of your skin, and your goals for the treatment.
What to expect during a chemical peel
Chemical peels, no matter the myths, are quite an easy and stress-free process. They are also an out-patient procedure, which means you don’t need to stay overnight.
Professional peels will firstly involve a thorough cleanse of the skin, before the chemical solution is applied. The overall process aims to create a controlled wound, letting new and healthy skin reform in its place.
Although chemical peels are not 100% pain-free, most clients express a burning sensation that lasts five to ten minutes, followed by a slight stinging sensation. This is normal, and cool compresses on the skin can be made in order to ease sensations.
What to expect after a chemical peel
As with any cosmetic treatment, results are not immediate, and depending upon the type of chemical peel, a reaction similar to sunburn often occurs following the procedure. This too is normal, along with redness, peeling and slight scaling of the skin within three to seven days. Mild peels can be repeated at one to four-week intervals, until you achieve the look you are aiming for.
Medium-depth and deep peel treatments may result in swelling and slight blister cycles, over a period of seven to fourteen days. Medium-depth peels can be repeated in six to twelve months, if necessary.
The benefits of chemical peels
Chemical peels can dramatically improve the appearance of the skin, stimulating new cell growth and collagen production in order to effectively reveal younger looking skin.
Peels are great solutions for a number of skin imperfections, including acne, scarring and aging. Here are a few of the long-term benefits skin peels can offer individuals:
- Skin will be noticeably smoother and fresher looking
- A chemical peel reduces signs of sun damage, dull and uneven skin tone, scars, pigmentation, acne and enlarged pores
- A skin peel penetrates the skin to smooth rough texture and discolouration
- There are a range of skin peels available designed to treat specific skin conditions and types
- Your skin will be brighter and clearer due to the growth of healthy skin cells and collagen production
As cosmetic professionals that are dedicated to providing you, our client, with the latest in proven beauty and health care treatments and services – we offer a quality range of treatment from quality brands, including Aqualyx UK and Lustre Pure Light. For more information, or to speak to one of our helpful and expert team – please do not hesitate to contact us on 01481 736699 and book a consultation today!