Chemical Peels
A chemical peel is a procedure which removes the outer layer of the skin using a chemical solution, whether it be a lighter concentration for a superficial treatment or deeper concentration for a medium to deep treatment, with the goal of speeding up the skin renewal process to reveal even-toned, fresher looking, and smoother skin over the course of a few sessions.
About Chemical Peels
A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure used to improve the texture, tone, and overall appearance of the skin by applying a chemical solution to the surface of the skin, which rapidly exfoliates the top layer of skin to reveal smoother and fresher looking skin beneath. Chemical peel ingredients typically involve alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids for a lighter or more superficial peel whereas trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is used for medium and deeper depth peels. At Vitalize Skin Clinic, we use a variety of different depths of peels which are customized depending on your skin condition, skin type, and desired results – which will be determined after a professional skin assessment with us!
How Chemical Peels Works
Application of suitable chemical peel
A suitable chemical peel solution is chosen according to your skin type, skin condition, and desired strength. A superficial peel is best for those seeking to address minor skin issues such as mild acne, uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores and looking for an overall gentler skin refresh! A medium-depth peel is advisable for more advanced skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, deep acne scars, hyperpigmentation, melasma or deeper pigmented spots.
Exfoliation & Healing Process
The chemical peel exfoliation process involves shedding off the top layer of the skin to reveal smoother skin underneath. A lighter peel involves faster healing, typically a few days, and the exfoliation process does not always involve visible peeling, making it an excellent option for those wanting to avoid downtime! A medium depth peel involves a more intense exfoliation which results in greater downtime, typically 1-2 weeks. It is important to apply SPF 30+ following a peel and refrain from picking or peeling your skin to avoid side effects such as hyperpigmentation. Depending on the skin condition and your goals, 3-6 treatments are generally advised for desired results.
Skin Regeneration
Following the healing process, the skin begins to regenerate as dead skin cells are exfoliated to reveal healthier and even looking skin. Collagen and elastin production is stimulated during this stage, which improves the skin texture, tone, and overall complexion. It is important to note that light chemical peels require between 3-6 sessions, whereas medium-depth chemicals require 1-3 sessions for noticeable results.
Post Treatment Care
Who Is This For?
Hyperpigmented Skin
Chemical peels can address dark spots, freckles, agespots, and even melasma by removing the superficial pigmented layer of the skin to reveal a more even complexion.
Those with acne
Chemical peels effectively exfoliate the skin, clearing the pores of excess sebum, oil, and debris which are often the culprits of acne and therefore the treatment is often used to treat and prevent acne.
Aging skin
The exfoliation process of the chemical peel triggers your body’s natural healing process, which stimulates the production of collagen and elastin which can help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Enlarged pores
A chemical peel exfoliates dead skin cells and unclogs pores, which makes them appear smaller.
Those looking to improve their skin tone and texture
Anyone looking to improve their overall skin tone and texture to reveal a brighter, smoother, and more even complexion can benefit from a chemical peel!
Mild scarring
A chemical peel can be effective to treat mild scarring, such as acne scars, however deeper scarring is best treated with other methods such as microneedling or laser therapy.
Vitalize Skin Clinic Reviews
Quick answers to questions you may have
What are the benefits of getting a Chemical Peel?
- Improves hyperpigmentation
- Reduces scars and acne scars
- Treats wrinkles and sun damage
- Rejuvenates skin
- Evens skin tone and texture
- Improves melasma and discolouration
- Results in radiant and smoother complexion
- Long lasting and permanent effects
How long is the recovery?
At Vitalize Skin Clinic we offer light to medium chemical peels as we believe the best approach is to offer a gradual series of treatments which will be gentler on the skin as opposed to a single invasive treatment, which can result in unwanted side effects and high irritation. The recovery time for a light chemical peel ranges from 1-7 days, whereas a medium peel ranges from 1-2 weeks. Bear in mind that following a medium chemical peel, there may be discolouration for around a month as your skin heals and regenerates.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions you will need varies depending on your skin concerns and goals, including the severity of scarring, pigmentation, and other textural issues present. As a general rule, the lighter the peel the more sessions you will need as compared to deeper peels and sessions typically range from 3-6 treatments, spaced apart.
What results can I expect
Your skin will shed and flake off for up to a week or two following a chemical peel, depending on the intensity of the peel. Your results will become more apparent within the 1-2 week mark, at which point there may be signs of redness and irritation. While light chemical peels typically do not involve prolonged healing, medium peels may result in discolouration for up a little over a month. Following a chemical peel, you should expect a smoother, brighter, and more even complexion with a significant improvement in tone and texture. The results of chemical peels are long lasting and achieve a dramatic improvement.