Dr Alison covers everything you need to know about skin peels and how they might benefit you.
In the quest for smooth, glowing skin, chemical peels have been a popular treatment option. Peels have certainly earned their place as a staple in skincare but what exactly is a chemical peel, and how can it benefit you? Let’s shed some light on the transformative potential of chemical peels and what you can expect before, during, and after treatment.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
The word ‘chemical’ sounds dramatic but actually every skincare product contains chemicals (even organic ingredients are technically chemicals, just manufactured by mother nature rather than a lab).
In a chemical peel, we use specific ingredients that allow the top layers of skin to shed away, revealing softer and smoother skin underneath.
We exfoliate away this top layer using a specialised solution of acids. Again, ‘acids’ also sounds dramatic, but our skin surface is naturally acidic ad so all we’re doing is adding to this to break the bonds that hold those outer cells together allowing them to shed.
By removing dull, damaged skin cells on the surface, the peel reveals healthier, fresher skin beneath. A peel can target a range of skin concerns also, from fine lines and wrinkles to acne, pigmentation, and uneven skin texture. With the right approach, a chemical peel can be a safe and effective way to achieve radiant, youthful skin – yes please!
Types of Chemical Peels
Not all chemical peels are created equal; they can be tailored to suit individual skin types and concerns. Here’s a closer look at the three main types of chemical peels:
Superficial Peels
Often referred to as "lunchtime peels," superficial peels use milder acids like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to gently exfoliate the outermost layer of skin. The most common acids used are lactic acid, glycolic acid and retinoic acid. These peels are ideal for addressing minor skin concerns, such as dullness or mild pigmentation, and they typically require minimal to no downtime. They are gentle enough to be performed more frequently, making them a great option for those looking to maintain a fresh, glowing complexion. Also perfect to do just before an event.
Medium Peels
Using acids like trichloroacetic acid (TCA), medium peels penetrate deeper into the skin to address more pronounced issues, such as moderate sun damage, wrinkles, or age spots. Medium peels offer a more intensive exfoliation, and they often come with a short period of visible peeling and downtime, perhaps 5-7 days. The results can be more dramatic than those of superficial peels, with smoother, more even skin tone and texture.
Deep Peels
For those with advanced signs of ageing or significant skin issues, a deep peel may be recommended. Deep peels often use phenol acid, which reaches the deeper layers of the skin to address severe wrinkles, sun damage, and scarring. While the results are typically long-lasting, the recovery period is more extended, and it’s essential to prepare for a period of visible peeling, redness, and even some discomfort. Due to their strength, deep peels are typically done only once and require professional supervision. These are rarely done in a typical aesthetic clinic so you might have to search for a peel specialist for this deep level resurfacing!
The Benefits of a Chemical Peel
Chemical peels can benefit a range of skin types and concerns. Here are some of the standout advantages:
Smoother Texture: By removing dead skin cells, peels reveal smoother, softer skin.
Improved Radiance: Dull, tired skin can be revitalised, with an immediate boost to brightness.
Reduced Pigmentation: Peels help fade age spots, sunspots, and areas of hyperpigmentation.
Fewer Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Certain peels stimulate collagen production, helping to smooth out fine lines.
Improved Skin Tone: Uneven tone and texture are common skin complaints that a peel can address beautifully.
Acne Control: For those struggling with acne, chemical peels can be highly effective, clearing out pores and reducing future breakouts, especially those containing salicylic acid.
What to Expect During a Chemical Peel Appointment
If you're considering a chemical peel, you might wonder what happens during the procedure itself. Ensure you’ve had a thorough consultation beforehand to assess your skin type, concerns, and goals, helping to select the most suitable peel for you.
Preparation: After cleansing the skin, the practitioner may apply a pre-peel solution to prepare the skin. For certain peels, you may be advised to stop certain skincare products in the days leading up to your appointment – usually these are ingredients such as retinoids, acids and other ‘active’ ingredients which might make the peel too strong.
Application of the Peel Solution: The chemical solution is then applied evenly to the skin. Depending on the type and strength of the peel, you may feel a mild tingling or stinging sensation.
Timing: The peel is left on for a few minutes to allow it to penetrate and exfoliate the skin. Timing is crucial and depends on the desired results and the strength of the peel.
Neutralisation: After the peel has done its job, a neutralising solution may be applied to stop the chemical reaction. The practitioner will then apply soothing skincare to calm and protect the skin.
Downtime and Aftercare After a Chemical Peel
One of the key aspects to consider with chemical peels is the recovery period. Downtime can vary widely depending on the type of peel:
Superficial Peels: Minimal to no downtime; you may experience mild redness, which fades within a few hours. Light flaking may occur but typically resolves within a few days.
Medium Peels: Expect some redness, swelling, and peeling that can last 3-7 days. During this time, it's important to avoid picking or peeling the skin, as this can lead to scarring.
Deep Peels: With a more intensive peel, downtime may extend to 1-2 weeks. Redness, peeling, and swelling are common, and it’s essential to follow all aftercare instructions to promote healing and avoid complications.
After any peel, sunscreen is essential, as your skin will be more sensitive to sunlight. Apply a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and avoid sun exposure as much as possible for several weeks after the procedure.
Is a Chemical Peel Right for You?
Chemical peels are highly customisable, making them suitable for many skin types and concerns. However, the right type of peel and frequency of treatment should always be tailored to the individual.
Whether you’re looking for a quick, no-downtime refresher for the skin a few days before an event, or a course of treatments to tackle your underlying pigment then there are various options available.
Skinbetter Science Professional Peels at The Avery Clinic
You already know how much I love the Skinbetter Science range – so I’m delighted to be offering their professional peel system in clinic as of December 2024.
We now have 2 x strengths of peel available in clinic, both are classed as ‘superficial’ and are available in a 30% strength or a 50% strength. After much research, I have chosen these peel systems as they are multifunctional, containing the following acids:
- Lactic acid
- Glycolic acid
- Salicylic acid
- And of course, their patented AlphaRet retinoid formulation
This blend of acids means that we can treat anything from ageing, to pigment, to stubborn acne with this peel.
I recommend a course of 3-6 treatments for best results, but also these chemical peels are perfect as a quick pre-event treatment for glowing and smooth skin!
Book now to get your treatment in before the Christmas season:
Written by Dr Alison Colville
Founder & Medical Director of The Avery Clinic
Leamington Spa
Warwickshire
UK
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