Chemical Face Peels

A medical skin peel is the application of a chemical solution to the face to remove dead skin. Often, excessive build up of dead skin can cause problems such as clogged pores and a dull complexion. A medical skin peel removes the upper layers of skin and reveals the new, smooth skin underneath.

A skin peel can improve the appearance of;

– Sun damage
– Fine lines and wrinkles
– Acne and acne scarring
– Nodular or cystic acne (bumps under the skin)
– Rough or dry skin
– Hyper pigmentation
– Enlarged pores
– Dull skin tone

Depending on what kind of peel is being carried out, different chemical solutions containing acids such as glycolic acid or lactic acid are applied. The chemicals penetrate through the skin’s outer layer (the epidermis), boosting collagen and lifting off the top layer of skin. Two or three days after a peel, the patient will experience flaking and shedding of the skin. After about a week, the skin will have almost finished shedding and the patient will be left with smooth, rejuvenated complexion

Is it painful?

Patients do experience an initial burning or stinging sensation when the chemical solution is applied to the face. Before the skin begins to peel, it may feel tight, but there should be no pain.

What to expect

Before you have a medical peel, you should have a consultation, where the practitioner will assess your skin and will be able to tell you whether a chemical peel can help with your particular skin problems. A reputable clinic should offer a different range of peel treatments, the practitioner can then advise on which chemical peel is right for you.

Often, a patient will be required to use a skin-care pack for up to four weeks prior to their treatment, which will prepare the skin for a peel. The better the prep the better the results.

During the treatment itself, the face will be thoroughly cleansed, then the chemical solution is applied in layers. A fan may be used to prevent the skin from feeling too hot. Once the solution is removed, aftercare will be advised.

In the days following a skin peel, the patient will notice that layers of dead skin will start to flake and peel away, in a similar way to sunburn. Skin may appear darker and feel dry or tight. An exfoliating gel product such as NuPeel can be applied during this period to gently encourage the skin to shed. Normally, to keep the skin dry, patients will be advised not to swim or do exercise and to avoid sun exposure as the new skin will be sensitive and more prone to sun damage.