everything you need to know about chemical peels.

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Chemical peeling agents resurface the skin by inducing a controlled wound, this removes the superficial layers of the skin. As a result, chemical peels promote the growth of a new healthy top skin layer and improve skin problems like hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven texture and skin impurities.

Chemical peels are an amazing facial for the majority of clients. 

Chemical peels should be avoided if any of the following conditions are present:

Active cold sores, herpes simplex or warts in the area to be treated

Wounded, sunburned or excessively sensitive skin

Accutane use within the last year

History of recent chemotherapy or radiation therapy

Allergies to aspirin

Women who are pregnant or actively breastfeeding

Patients with Vitiligo

Patients with a history of autoimmune disease (such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, lupus, multiple sclerosis etc) or any condition that may weaken their immune system

Chemical peels can be used on most areas of the body, but are commonly used on the face or the backs of the hands to improve the appearance of:

Rough skin texture.

Fine lines and wrinkles.

Age spots.

Sun damage.

Blemishes.

Acne.

Acne scars.

Procedures may vary dependent on the type of chemical peel chosen. Skin is prepped using a medical degreaser to ensure the treated area is free of any oils left on the skin. The chemical agent is then applied and typically remains on the skin for 3 to 5 minutes. Most patients feel a mild stinging which is temporary and usually subsides after a few minutes. Some peels are designed to self neutralise and may remain on your skin for 2-4 hours.

approximately 30-60 minutes.

Immediately after the peel, your skin will feel tight and may be red.

Depending on your skin condition and the depth of the chemical peel, multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired skin results.

One week before avoid: waxing, electrolysis, deploritory creams, and laser hair removal.

Two to three days before: discontinue using any prescription topicals such as Retin-A, differin or Tazorac, as well as any products containing retinol, alpha hydroxyl acids (AHA), beta hydroxyl acids (BHA) or benzoyl peroxide.

If you have had any medical cosmetic facial treatments or procedures such as Laser treatments, cosmetic fillers or other surgical procedures, you should wait until skin sensitivity has completely resolved before receiving a peel.

Strenuous exercise and heavy sweating should be avoided for 2-3 days.

Sun exposure should be avoided while skin is peeling; exposure of treated skin to a lot of heat should also be avoided as it may induce swelling, redness and for deeper peels blisters under the skin.

Peeling skin should be allowed to fall off naturally; picking or peeling of flaking skin is prohibited, as it may lead to scarring. Use of prescription topicals should be avoided for 3-5 days post peel.

Recovery times will vary based on the type and strength of the peel. 

Any visible peeling will be light and fluffy and easily controlled with moisturiser. 

Peeling usually lasts 3-5 days, depending on the actual peel treatment. 

Use of gentle cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen is important, as it will enhance the healing process and results. 

Normal activity may be resumed after the peel.

Use of a soap free gentle cleanser shall be used to wash your face, scrubs and wash cloths should be avoided while skin is peeling. Application of a hydrating moisturiser twice a day or as often as necessary is recommended to relieve dryness and control peeling. A physical Sunblock must be worn daily. Its best to avoid prolonged sun exposure for 1-week post peel.

The success of the peel should not be judged by the amount of peeling, but by the end results that the peel will produce. The amount of peeling may vary depending on individual skin condition at the time of the peel or the depth of the peel. Regardless of the degree of peeling, the skin is still peeling off at an accelerated rate, resulting in the improvement of skin tone and texture and an improvement of fine lines and uneven pigmentation.