SKIN PEELS

Skin peels are used most frequently for skin rejuvenation to treat superficial to moderate photoaging skin damage. Skin, also known as chemical peeling, is also effective in reduction of some acne scars and for helping to reduce or prevent acne by loosening and removing the blackheads or plugs which block sebaceous glands. Mild chemical peels can be applied to people in their 20s to prevent effects of aging from becoming apparent too early in life.

Skin peels involve a chemical solution being applied to the skin, causing it to redden and then become flaky for a period of days. As the treated skin reddens and peels, new skin forms to take its place. The new skin is usually more even-toned, smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin.

At we recommend that a mild chemical peel is usually all that is necessary to treat fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. If you have minimal skin damage we would likely suggest a series of light peels in combination with a skin care program including our Skin Therapeutics' Rejuvenating cream plus a broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. A medium-depth peel is often more effective if you have moderate skin damage, including age spots, freckles and actinic keratoses. We may suggest a medium-depth peel be combined with another treatment such as Laser or IPL rejuvenation to achieve maximum effectiveness.

At our medically trained clinicians will recommend the type and strength of a peel, depending on the objectives of the treatment as determined jointly by you and the clinician. At we have a comprehensive range of peeling solutions which are of scientifically proven efficacy and have the medical expertise to ensure these are applied safely.

Before Treatment

At we recommend that, to achieve maximum effect and benefit, pre-treatment cream should be applied daily for a month prior to the peel. supplies a rejuvenating cream, at a very reasonable cost, under its Skin Therapeutics label. In addition to optimising the effectiveness of the peel, Rejuvenating cream will by itself exfoliate the skin and reduce pigmentation. It will also reduce the time needed for healing and help maintain the effectiveness of the peel.

The peel

Superficial chemical peels are a minor procedure and no special arrangements are needed.

First the face is thoroughly cleansed to remove oils and then the peeling agent is applied for several minutes. It stings - how badly and for how long depends on the chemical, its concentration, whether you've had pre-treatment as above, and individual factors. The peel is then neutralised and the stinging subsides.

Individual treatments may include peels with several agents on the same occasion, with the aim of improving results and reducing risks.

If you are prone to cold sores, you would normally be offered an anti-viral medication for 3 days to prevent outbreaks.

What to Expect After the Peel

The immediate after-effect of a chemical peel is similar to a sunburn. After a mild or superficial peel, redness and scaling of the skin lasts 3 to 5 days. If this is not acceptable to the client due to work or social commitments, a milder peel can be done but obviously the beneficial results of the peel will be less, and the peel will need to be repeated at shortened intervals to achieve the same results. Over-exposure to sun must be avoided for a period of time to prevent sun damage while the new skin is susceptible to injury.

Looking after the skin after the peel

    Keep treated areas cool (use a water spray).
  • Do not pick! Picking delays healing and causes scarring
  • Moisture - use light preparations after a superficial peel, thicker moisturisers after a deeper peel
  • Protect from the sun - especially for the first 6 months
  • If advised to do so, continue to use tretinoin, glycolic acid and/or hydroquinone at night long term.

Complications

  • Complications are uncommon but include:
  • Comedones (blocked pores) or acne may result from the peel itself or from thick moisturisers used afterwards.
  • Infection due to bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus), yeast (Candida albicans), or virus (Herpes simplex). You may need antibiotics.
  • Scarring may result from infection or picking and can be permanent.
  • Blotchy pigmentation is most likely in those with darker skin or who had a pigmentation problem before the peel. At we would not recommend a peel (or microdermabrasion) for pre-existing conditions which can be worsened by skin irritants.
  • Persistent solar keratoses may require treatment with Photodynamic Therapy, IPL, or Laser treatment.

General advice

Follow your clinician's advice and if you don't understand something please just ask.

Let us know promptly if there are any problems. Remember, complications are easier to deal with early than late.

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