Treatment Introduction
A Chemical peel is a safe and effective skin- resurfacing and regenerative procedure in which a chemical solution is applied to the skin. It is used to treat age lines and wrinkles, pigmentation irregularities, uneven skin texture, oily or acne skins and scar tissue. A peel is very effective used on its own or in combination with another cosmetic procedure on areas of the body as well as the face. It can be done alone or in combination with another cosmetic procedure. Peel depths vary from Very Superficial, to Superficial, then to Medium and with Deep peels being confined to a surgical procedure.
What does the treatment involve? Does it hurt?
It is a relatively quick procedure, between 20-30 minutes. The peel is applied in a fine layer and left on for between 1 to 5 minutes. Gentler peels may stay on the skin up to 10 minutes. To stop the peel, it is neutralised and then, cold water compresses will be applied. There is some level of discomfort from mild tingling to a pins and needles sensation. At any point in the treatment your peel can be removed by your practitioner straight away, should you wish it. The treatment is followed by LED light therapy to calm the skin before the application of an hydrating mask. The skin is nourished with antioxidant and collagen boosting serum and moisturiser and SPF protection.
Which Peels do we use?
We use Very Superficial and Superficial Peels from well respected companies in the aesthetic sector, including NeoStrata. They have been carefully selected for their efficacy and safety. The formulations include varying strength Alpha & Beta Hydroxy Acids and Polyhydroxy Acids. These organic acids are very safe for cosmetic use.
Side Effects of Chemical Peeling
Peel treatments carried out professionally are very safe procedures that carry minimal risk of adverse skin reactions. Depending on the intensity and depth of your peel you may experience light flaking of the skin during the first few days. It is only the medical strength peels which sheath the skin over 1 – 3 weeks. After a peel your skin may look slightly pink and this normally subsides within 12 -24 hours. Many people have no redness at all. Your skin will be more sensitive to sunlight for a few days and it is essential to wear sunscreen during the recovery period. A feeling of tightness is also very normal for 1- 5 days post peeling.
How a Peel works
In superficial peels the keratin protein in the dead skin cells is coagulated and the cells are thereby destroyed, become detached from the underlying tissue and then subsequently flake away. In deeper peels the inflammatory and healing responses in the skin are triggered by the peeling agent causing the regeneration of new epidermal cells as well as the production of fresh collagen in the reduction in scar tissue and a general refinement of the skin. In an acne or oily skin, the peel will reduce the congestion in the pores, reduce inflamed blemishes and improve scarring.
