In chemical peeling, a chemical solution is used to remove a thin layer of skin cells. The outer layers of skin peel off within a few days after treatment, allowing growth of skin cells from below, giving a more youthful and fresher appearance.
Chemical peels may be effective in treating superficial acne scars, and correct skin blemishes due to age or sun damage. They can also be used to treat fine wrinkles in the eye region, around the mouth and on the forehead.
There are a number of agents which are used for chemical peels. These include glycolic acids, alpha-hydroxy acids, trichloroacetic acids and phenols. They may further be classified by depth of action and concentration into superficial, intermediate and deep peels.
In general, the deeper the peel, the longer the recovery time. Thus patients undergoing superficial peels may only experience a mild redness with minimal skin peeling, while the deepest peels will cause crusting and weeping of wounds for ten to fourteen days. Patients may experience hyperpigmentation (increase in skin tone) after treatment, although this is less common with the superficial peels. With the deeper peels, there is a correspondingly increased risk of scarring due to risk of damage to the dermis (deeper layer of skin).
The treatment regimen also depends on your skin type, e.g. whether you tend to burn with exposure to the sun, the amount of pigment (colour) in your skin, and the level of activity of the oil-secreting glands. The thickness of skin over your face is different in different areas and the strength of a peel need to be adjusted accordingly. If you have a history of cold sores, allergies or severe acne, please let us know as pre-treatment with other agents may be necessary.
Due to the wide range of peeling agents which vary in type, action and concentration; a detailed plan of treatment is formulated at your consultation. Chemical peels are a useful adjunct to surgical treatment, and can help improve skin tone and colour before and after surgery. They may also be used to treat certain types of acne and fine wrinkles.
Used correctly, they allow your surgeon to offer you a complete programme of rejuvenation and will help you achieve a younger, glowing appearance, far more effectively than most over-the counter-products.
We carry a range of superior skincare products which contain effective agents. Used in conjunction with chemical peeling, these can help optimise and maintain your new complexion, giving you a longer-lasting, more satisfying result.
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