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What is a Chemical Peel?

Peels use naturally derived Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) such as Lactic, Glycolic and Salicylic Acid, and Retinoids to gently exfoliate the surface layers of your skin (the epidermis).

This skincare activity is called ‘chemical’ exfoliation – as opposed to physical exfoliation – as its ingredients work to dissolve dead skin cells rather than slough them away with abrasive substances such as salt, sugar or coarse exfoliant beads.

With the top layer of old skin cells dissolved by the active or ‘chemical’ peel ingredients, debris such as dead cells and pore-clogging matter is eradicated, and a fresher, brighter and softer skin surface is revealed.

This skin-refining process encourages and accelerates cell turnover, promoting skin renewal and thus refreshing and improving the appearance of your facial skin longer term.

When a chemical peel is repeated at regular intervals, deeper change can be achieved, such as a reduction in the appearance of pigmentation, noticeable fading of mild scars, and softening of fine lines around the eyes and mouth.

Before and After

Before and after 2 x Chemical Peels and Q-Switch Laser to remove scarring, pitting and discolouration.

Before and After

Before and after 2 x Chemical Peels and Q-Switch Laser to remove scarring, pitting and discolouration.

Before & After: Timeless Peel

  • This patient received the Timeless Peel
  • Her concern was the brown spots and blotchy darkening of the skin across her cheek and temples caused by melasma
  • Photos taken before, during and after 1 session
  • Middle photo demonstrates the ‘shedding’ phase, where hyperpigmentation darkens further before being ridded by the skin and peeling away
  • Result is a significant reduction in hyperpigmentation, eradication of brown patches, and a younger-looking, more even skin tone

Before & After: Deep Sea Peel

  • This patient received the Deep Sea Peel
  • Her concern was discolouration and darkening of the skin caused by acne scarring
  • Photos taken before and after 3 sessions
  • Result is a dramatic reduction in evidence of acne, with near eradication of discolouration, leaving behind clear and even-toned skin

Chemical Peel Results and Aftercare

Each peel may require slightly different aftercare like not getting wet for up to 12 hours post peel.

Your Skin & Laser Therapist will provide specific post-peel instructions tailored to your skin type and the type of peel you received.

It’s essential to follow these instructions carefully. This will ensure proper healing, maximise the results of your chemical peel treatment, and keep your skin happy and healthy.

Here are some helpful tips for after your appointment:

  • Protect your skin from the sun. After a peel, your skin becomes more sensitive to the sun and UV exposure in general. It’s crucial to protect your skin by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and avoiding direct sun exposure. Wearing protective clothing and using hats and sunglasses can also help. We recommend bringing a hat and sunglasses to your appointment.
  • Avoid certain skincare products. Your skin may be more sensitive after a peel, so it’s best to avoid using harsh cleansers, exfoliants, or products containing active ingredients like retinoids or alpha-hydroxy acids. Stick to gentle, soothing skincare products recommended by your Skin & Laser Therapist.
  • Stay hydrated. Keeping your skin hydrated is essential for the healing process. Drink plenty of water and use a gentle, hydrating moisturiser to help maintain moisture in the skin.
  • Be patient and consistent. The results of a peel may take some time to fully manifest. It’s important to be patient and consistent with your skincare routine and any recommended follow-up treatments.

Will I Need Follow-Up Treatments?

This depends on the individual and the specific concerns being addressed. In some cases, a single peel session may be sufficient (like Cosmelan or the Cosmo Peel Forte) to achieve the desired results.

However, in many instances, multiple peel sessions may be recommended to achieve optimal outcomes, such as with AHA- or BHA-based chemical peels.

The need for follow-up treatments will vary based on factors such as the severity of the skin condition being treated, desired results, and individual response to the peel but we encourage patients to return 4-6 weeks later for a review or secondary treatment.

In most cases, a course of peels will be recommended. This can occur when addressing specific skin concerns such as acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines and wrinkles.

Multiple peel sessions, typically spaced four weeks apart, may be necessary to achieve gradual improvement for the targeted skin condition.

However, patients who simply desire a quick brightening boost could plan for a single session.

Book a Consultation with Contour Clinics

Chemical Peels provide an effective solution for anyone concerned with uneven tone or texture, minor pigmentation or scars, or overall dullness.

It’s a quick and straightforward treatment that you can receive in a series of comfortable, painless, in-clinic facials, and it achieves noticeable results with plenty of skin-loving benefits.

If you are concerned about the appearance of your facial skin and would love to feel confident in going without makeup, we’d love to chat to you about the excellent results that can be achieved with chemical peels.

Get in touch today to enquire and book a consultation with one of our expert Skin & Laser Therapists to discuss which of our many dermal treatments could be right for you.

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