Chemical Peels work by applying a solution to the skin that dissolves the bonds between the dead skin cells on the very surface of the skin, causing it to exfoliate and eventually slough away. The goal is to remove the damaged outer layer of the skin, revealing a smoother, less congested and more evenly pigmented complexion. The process stimulates the production of new skin cells, collagen and elastin, promoting skin renewal and rejuvenation.

Different types of peels, such as alpha hydroxy peels (AHA), beta hydroxy acid (BHA) peels and trichloroacetic (TCA) peels, offer varying levels of exfoliation and depth of penetration. The choice of peel depends on the specific skin concerns and desired outcomes. It’s important to note that deeper peels may require more downtime, as the skin’s healing process is more extensive. Consulting with your skin specialist at SkinHD will help determine the most suitable peel for your skin type and concern.

The time it takes to see results from a chemical peel can vary depending on the type and strength of the product used, as well as individual skin characteristics.

• Light peels have no downtime and will experience some immediate improvements in skin tone and texture and will look much brighter and more glowy. You may notice an improved radiance and less breakouts over the course of the next few weeks after your treatment.
• With deeper peels you will experience some downtime, including dry, flaky skin, some redness and/or sensitivity and visible peeling for up to two weeks. Once the peeling has resolved, you should see improvements in pigmentation, fine lines and overall texture.

For optimal and longer lasting results, multiple sessions of lighter peels or a series of deeper peels may be recommended. The timing between sessions will depend on the specific peel used and your skin’s response. For best results, we recommend a series of 3-5 light peels spaced a few weeks apart or 1-2 sessions of our deeper peels.

The duration of results from chemical peels can vary based on the type and intensity of the peel, as well as individual skin characteristics.

• Light peels – the results of light peels are often subtle and may require multiple sessions for optimal outcomes. These can be done more frequently and may need maintenance treatments to sustain the effects, results typically last a few weeks to a couple of months.
• Deeper peels – more intensive peels can offer longer-lasting results. While a single session may provide significant improvements, maintenance treatments might still be recommended for more severe symptoms or sustained benefits. Results from deeper peels can last several months to a year or more, even longer with medical skincare products.

We use trusted and cosmeceutical and medical grade products for our chemical peels, including MediMD, Obagi and Dermaceutic to ensure effective and safe peels for all skin types.

Chemical peels are generally safe for most skin types, but individual suitability can vary. It’s crucial to have a consultation with a skin specialist at SkinHD to assess your skin type, concerns and medical history to determine the most appropriate type and strength of chemical peel for you. While chemical peels are effective for addressing issues like uneven skin tone, acne, fine lines and dullness, factors such as skin sensitivity, current skin conditions or certain medications may influence suitability.

Chemical peels are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, recently tanned/sunburnt skin, clients on certain acne-controlling medication (like Roaccutane), clients recently or currently on a laser treatment programme, or other underlying health concerns. Some peels are not suitable for darker skin tones without first prepping the skin.

The experienced skin specialists at SkinHD can guide you through this process during a free online consultation to ensure the best and safest results for your skin.

• The timing on when to book in for a chemical peel can vary depending on the strength of peel you’re considering and the symptoms you want to address. Lighter peels with minimal downtime may be scheduled closer to the event, while deeper peels that might involves more noticeable peeling or redness could require a longer recovery period.
• For a general rejuvenation, one light peel the week before the event may be sufficient, but controlling more moderate to severe skin concerns may require a course of treatments.
  Your SkinHD specialist will be able to guide you on an expected timeline of results during your free online consultation.

The visibility of having had a chemical peel can vary depending on the type and strength of the peel, as well as individual skin reactions. Light peels have no downtime and any redness or flaking will be minimal. Your skin will look bright, glowing and smoother without being obvious you’ve had any treatment. With deeper peels it may be more noticeable in the 2 weeks following your treatment as you may experience some redness and/or shedding and flaking of the skin. Your SkinHD practitioner can provide guidance of the expected effects based on the type of peel chosen and your skin type. They can also advise on post-peel skincare and tips to minimise any temporary visibility.

• Avoid touching your face or applying make-up for 24 hours after treatment.
• Avoid extreme heat and strenuous exercise for 48 hours after treatment.
• Avoid sun exposure and apply SPF religiously every day– even when it’s raining or you’re not leaving the house!
• Avoid active ingredients/exfoliants (acids, retinols etc) or other irritants in skincare products for a few days – your SkinHD practitioner will advise your specific aftercare depending on the type and strength of peel that you have.
• Do not pick at any spots or pull on any peeling skin after a peel as this may cause scarring and/or hyperpigmentation

Chemical Peels are a great treatment to use in combination with most other treatments available at SkinHD. We’d advise waiting at least 2 weeks after any other treatments before getting a chemical peel to avoid any adverse effects.

While chemical peels are generally safe, there is the potential for some side effects. Common side effects include redness, irritation, peeling and/or flaking, temporary increased sensitivity to sun exposure and active ingredients in skincare. Rare side effects include changes in skin colour, infection, scarring and allergic reactions. If you have a history with cold sores, undergoing a peel may reactivate the virus – taking OTC acyclovir for 2 days before treatment can help reduce this risk.

• Depending on the type and strength of peel, prepping the skin before a chemical peel can help enhance the results and reduce the risk of side effects.
• Consultation – have a chat with your skin specialist to advise what treatment course is best recommended to help alleviate your skin concerns.
• Skincare routine adjustment – your practitioner may advise to avoid or introduce certain skincare products in the few days leading up to your appointment
• Sun protection – ensure that you use a good quality broad spectrum SPF in the weeks leading up to your appointment as chemical peels cannot be applied to recently tanned or sunburnt skin. Daily use of an SPF is also absolutely essential in the weeks after your appointment
• Avoid certain medications, such as retinoids, in the week of your appointment
• Avoid scrubs, exfoliants, hair removal (including shaving) and other irritants – otherwise it may increase the risk of experiencing unwanted side effects.
• Ideally arrive at your appointment without make-up, but don’t worry too much if you don’t as your practitioner will thoroughly cleanse the skin before carrying out the treatment.