Chemical Peel Treatments

The procedure known as chemical peeling involves the application of a chemical solution to the surface of the skin to produce the careful removal of its outer layers. The amount of skin removed will depend on the type of chemical used, the strength of this product and how long it is left on the skin.

Chemical peels are usually described according to how deep they work on the skin. Below are some examples of the type of peels:

Superficial Peels

Remove the outer layer of the skin or the “epidermal layers”.

Medium Depth Peels

Remove both the epidermal layers and upper dermal layers.

Deep Peels

Peeling extends deeper into the lower dermal layer of the skin.

No matter how deep the peel, your skin will re-grow and should heal fully. If you choose to have a deeper peel – maybe to get rid of wrinkles or acne scars – when the skin re-grows, it will not “remember” the blemishes that were there before. As the new skin develops, a new band of collagen in the dermis will grow along with a thicker epidermis. Hence, your skin will appear smoother and more perfect than before the treatment.

The deeper the peel, the greater potential for improvement to the skin. However, the risks of side effects are greater with deeper peels.

What skin problems can Chemical Peels treat?

Chemical peels can be used on most areas of the body, but the commonest use is to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, or the backs of the hands.

• Dull, ageing Skin
• Acne and greasy skin
• Acne Scars
• Melasma and pigmentation
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Sun spots and freckles
• Uneven skin, enlarged pores and blackheads
  
  

How many Chemical Peels are required?

Usually a series of at least 3 to 6 superficial peels are needed to treat ageing skin and acne scars. For deep scars and lines and wrinkles one to two medium peels may be needed.

What preparation is required before a Chemical Peel?

You may be placed on a home care program for at least 2-3 weeks prior to your first peel. The home care program will consist of a selection of products, which will introduce your skin to the program. This plays an important part in the overall peel procedure, as continuous home care program is important in the success of your peels. A factor 30 sun block is always advised in the home care program.

What are the side effects?

During the treatment you may experience a mild stinging sensation, which will disappear quickly.

Superficial peels result in mild facial redness and occasional swelling but this usually resolves within 48 hours. Medium peels result in a more intense redness and possible swelling, which usually has a recovery time of 5-10 days. In some instances flaking of the skin after your peel is normal; this should subside during the first few days post peel. Deep peels ,which are generally performed under general anesthesia, have been largely superceded since the advent of the fractional resurfacing laser.

Maintaining the results

Always wear SPF of at least 20 to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and use an antioxidant such as SkinCeutical’s CE Ferrulic or CE Phloretin serums for UVA protection. SkinCeuticals offers a range of prescription strength products that are scientifically proven, available through dermatologists, plastic surgeons and medi spas, and at the Canterbury Skin & Laser Clinic.

What is the cost of treatment?

Peel £75 each, course of six £400

Peel with microdermabrasion £125 each, course of three £360

Doctor for medium peels: Consultation £100

Peel £150 - £300

Our highly experienced medical experts will advise on how many peels you require, depending on the condition you are being treated for. Call us NOW to book a consultation on 01227 472288