Chemical Peels
Chemical peels resurface the skin with controlled exfoliation to improve tone, texture, pores, and pigment. We select the right acid, depth, and season, then prime and protect the skin so results look clear, even, and natural—not over-peeled.
What peels can (and can’t) do
Can help with:
- Dullness, uneven texture, enlarged pores
- Photo-ageing: fine lines, early elastosis
- Hyperpigmentation (sun spots), post-inflammatory marks
- Acne-prone skin (comedones, oil control)
Cannot replace:
- Volume restoration → see Dermal Fillers
- Significant laxity → consider Collagen Stimulators or Facelift & Neck Lift
- Active severe acne/infection → stabilise first
Peel types (no brand bias, tailored to you)
- Very superficial (glow peels): brighten, refine, minimal downtime.
- Superficial: Salicylic 20–30% / Glycolic 35–50% / Modified Jessner — pores/oil, pigment irregularities, early fine lines.
- Medium-depth: TCA 20–35% ± blends texture, dyschromia, early photoageing (requires social downtime).
Priming & precautions (the secret to even results)
- Sun program & SPF 50+ started before treatment
- Pause retinoids/acids 3–5 days pre-peel (longer for medium depth)
- HSV prophylaxis if history of cold sores for perioral/perinasal work
- Recent isotretinoin or aggressive procedures → individual assessment
The appointment, step by step
- Photography & cleansing, degreasing the skin
- Application: layered or timed, with endpoint monitoring (frosting/erythema)
- Neutralisation (if required) and barrier repair
- Aftercare briefing + written protocol
Time in clinic: ~30 minutes.
Back to routine: same day for light peels; plan social downtime for medium depth.
Aftercare & downtime
- Do not pick; barrier cream as directed
- Avoid heat, exercise, and exfoliants until re-epithelialised
- SPF 50+ daily; hat/sunglasses outdoors
Typical timeline:
- Glow/superficial peels: mild pinkness → micro-flaking 1–3 days
- Medium-depth: bronze-to-sheet peeling 3–7 days (face), residual pinkness up to 2–3 weeks
- TCA CROSS: tiny frosting → pinpoint scab 3–7 days
Course & longevity
- Glow/acne control: every 2–6 weeks, 3–6 sessions, then maintenance
- Medium-depth: 1 session, repeat only when indicated (usually not seasonal)
Results build cumulatively and pair well with Skin Boosters or Polynucleotides for radiance.
Candidacy & safety
Good candidates want clearer, smoother, more even skin and can follow SPF/aftercare.
We defer peels with active infection, uncontrolled eczema/rosacea flares, open wounds, or during pregnancy for most acids (case-by-case gentle options may exist but are often postponed).
Possible effects: redness, tightness, peeling, temporary darkening/lightening, cold-sore reactivation, PIH (mitigated by priming/sun care), rare scarring or infection. You receive clear consent and check-ins.
Smart combinations (case-by-case)
- Mesobotox (pore/sebum refinement)
- Skin Boosters (hydration and light bounce)
- Polynucleotides (repair/elasticity)
- Collagen Stimulators (firmness without bulk)
- Targeted Dermal Fillers (when lines are volume-driven, not dermal)
FAQs
Will I peel a lot?
Glow peels cause micro-flaking. Medium-depth peels have visible peeling 3–7 days—we’ll time it to your calendar.
Are peels safe for darker skin?
Yes, with right acid, depth, and priming. We prioritise PIH prevention and sun control.
When can I wear makeup?
Often the next day for light peels; after re-epithelialisation for medium depth.
How many sessions will I need?
Most patients see a glow after one; best results come from a series tailored to your concerns.
