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What is a Chemical Peel?

All chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to remove the outer layers of skin so that a smoother, more evenly pigmented, glowing layer of skin can appear. There are three basic categories of chemical peels. Each type works differently, and produces different results.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids(AHA) are found in plants and food such as citrus fruits, apples, grapes, sugar cane and sour milk. The acid breaks the intracellular bonds of the epidermis and accelerates the sloughing of the superficial dead skin cells of the epidermis. Lactic acid and glycolic acids are the two most common AHA acids found in skin care products. This peel is considered a light peel and patients will require multiple treatments to see results. Fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems are commonly treated with chemical peels. Clients will require more than one peel to achieve the desired results. Home-care recommendation usage will be required 2-4 weeks prior to peel appointment.

Does it hurt?

You will experience a slight stinging to the skin when the chemical is applied to your skin.

Do I need to take time off work to have a treatment?

It is not necessary to take time off work but your skin may look a little rosy right after the treatment.

Who can benefit from this treatment?

Most people who have sun damage such as multiple solar keratosis, pigmentation abnormalities, certain types of acne, and fine wrinkling might benefit from a chemical peel. Peels are often used to treat fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth. Wrinkles caused by sun damage, aging, and hereditary factors can often be reduced with this procedure.

What is the procedure like?

After cleansing the skin the peeling agent is carefully applied. Within minutes, there is a very warm sensation that feels like sunburn. This lasts for a few minutes. By the third or fourth day, the skin has a tight feeling and may or may not shed. This is replaced by skin with a pink colour and smooth texture, usually on days 5 to 7.

How much improvement will I have?

The amount of improvement is individual and depends on the initial condition of the patients skin. Maximum improvement of damaged skin and wrinkling ranges from 50%-85% and, although 100% percent improvement is not possible, most patients view the results as dramatic.