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Aesthetics

Chemical Peel

Skin texture

A chemical peel is a skin resurfacing treatment involving the application of a chemical agent, or a combination of chemical agents, to remove dead skin cells. This results in exfoliation and regeneration of the skin.

It improves texture, colour and surface abnormalities, and is designed to correct a variety of problems including sun damage, acne, mild scarring, fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and melasma.

There are several types of chemical peels to suit different skin conditions and concerns. Peels fall into superficial, medium and deep categories depending on the depth of skin the peel is able to penetrate.

Preparation

A serum containing the key ingredient of the peel may be recommended for 2 weeks beforehand, to allow the skin to become accustomed to the ingredients before the full strength peel is performed. Prior to treatment, please ensure that you:

  • Do not use abrasive or irritating substances for 5 days before the peel
  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure or tanning beds
  • Do not colour bleach, use depilatory products or shave the treatment area in the 24-48 hours prior
  • Avoid dermabrasion, ultrasound peels or other procedures that disturb the dermal epidermal layer, such as radiofrequency diathermy, for 3 weeks prior
  • Avoid dermal filler, anti-wrinkle injections or tattoos for 2 weeks prior
  • Avoid laser treatments on the face for 1 week prior

What happens during treatment

Your skin is cleansed and prepared, followed by application of the peel. After the peel is removed, hydrating ingredients are applied to heal the skin. Treatment time is approximately 30-45 minutes.

We usually start with a low strength peel in order to assess your skin's tolerance. You will feel slight tingling or burning when the peel is applied; once it is removed this sensation subsides.

The number of treatments you need depends on your skin condition and the type of peel. Typically 4-6 treatments are required, 2-4 weeks apart.

Aftercare

Aftercare instructions will be provided, and antibiotics or anti-viral medication may be given if needed. Follow-up visits will be organised. Please avoid sunlight and use adequate sun protection; SPF 50+ is mandatory.

Avoid swimming pools, saunas and strenuous activity for up to 48 hours post treatment, and direct sun exposure or solariums for 5 to 10 days post procedure. Waxing and hair removal procedures should be avoided for 7 to 14 days, and facial treatments for a minimum of 14 days.

Normal skincare can resume 7 to 10 days after the peel. Please maintain results with a healthy skincare maintenance program.

Side effects

Side effects vary from peel to peel due to differences in ingredients and depth of penetration. Due to the chemical exfoliation effect, side effects may include redness and swelling, scaling, scabs and changes to skin texture. Acne prone patients will almost always flare up, and herpes reactivation can occur. Rarely, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may occur; very rarely, hypopigmentation. Rarely, allergy or infection leading to scarring may occur.

Please note you must always undergo a thorough initial assessment by the Doctor or Skin Therapist to discuss your condition and the available management options, including their potential benefit and harm, prior to commencing any treatment.