Skin Treatments (Chemical Peels)
Chemical peeling is a procedure performed to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, hands, neck, and chest using a specially formulated chemical solution.
What conditions can chemical peeling treat?
- Reduce fine lines around the mouth and eyes
- Treat skin wrinkles caused by age and overexposure to the sun
- Some superficial skin scars
- Treat some types of acne
- Reduce dark patches, freckles, and age spots
- Increase the vitality of the skin
How is the treatment performed?
Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed. The chemical solution will then be applied to small areas of the skin. This causes the outermost layer of skin to exfoliate, allowing new skin to replace it.
Will there be any pain during the procedure?
There may be an initial sensation of burning that lasts 5-10 minutes, followed by a stinging sensation. You can use cold compresses to ease the discomfort. Topical anaesthetic or pain medication may be required if you are undergoing a deep peel.
How long will it take for the skin to recover from a chemical peel?
After a mild peel, there may be some scaling and redness that should resolve within 3-7 days. After a medium-depth peel, there may be some blister formation that breaks up and peels off within 7-14 days. The treated skin may require bandages for a few days.
What are the aftercare precautions that need to be taken?
You will need to avoid direct sunlight for several months as your new skin will be fragile. You must use a broad-spectrum sunscreen lotion that protects your skin from all the sun's harmful rays at all times.
Are there any possible complications with this procedure?
A chemical peel is a popular non-surgical procedure in many cosmetic clinics; however, some skin types are prone to developing a temporary or permanent colour change following treatment. There may also be some scarring that requires treatment, typically with a favourable outcome. Lastly, there could be a minimal risk of cold sore reactivation if you have a history of herpes outbreaks. Your doctor can prescribe medication to prevent or treat this complication.
How often can a chemical peel be repeated?
Mild peels can be repeated every 1-4 weeks, and medium-depth peels can be repeated every 6-12 months, until you achieve the healthy, glowing skin you desire.
Are there any risks associated with this procedure?
A cosmetic procedure is a formal, potentially risky medical treatment.
It is not a “simple beauty treatment”
Like any other procedure, chemical peels have risks and complications:
Common risks and complications:
Bruising, swelling, visible burn scarring, pain, treatment area discolouration or pigmentation, and rashes.
Rare risks and complications:
Severe skin burn injury; Large deep scars, Heavy pigmentation or discolouration
Anaesthetic anaphylaxis reaction: rashes, difficulty breathing, cardiac arrest.