Peels are an effective way to treat minor blemishes from accumulated sun damage, age-related changes, uneven pigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles and clogged pores. This is achieved by stimulation of new collagen deposition from the controlled chemical exposure – as the collagen matures it naturally contracts, and over a wide surface area this yields a tighter skin envelope, thus smoothing fine wrinkles and giving a more youthful glow. The process of chemical exfoliation achieves removal of superficial areas of uneven pigmentation and sun blemishes.

Trichloroacetic acid in different concentrations is the main agent of choice and can be safely used by experienced practitioners on even delicate skin such as eyelids around around the mouth. As it achieves its chemical effect, it is naturally neutralised by fluid released from the treated skin cells – hence, resulting in a safe, self-limiting treatment. The concentration of the agent selected and the method of application will be customised to your needs.

For anaesthetised patients, a single treatment can be applied to achieve good results as there is both medium and deep peels can be delivered with no discomfort. For outpatient procedures, most clients can receive a medium peel with only minor discomfort – others may be best treated with a series of 2-3 peels at intervals.

Immediate written after care advice will be given to you at the time of the treatment. There is a period of ~5 days in which the new skin is forming and usually make-up can be applied from about 10 days. It is important that you have previously used any make-up you plan to use after the treatment & ensured that your skin does not react to it. You should use a form of moisturising cream containing sun protection factor 30 or more after the treatment as your skin will be more vulnerable to sun uv radiation – even on overcast days.You may see some pinker / redder skin initially – this simply shows a good reaction to the treatment – after 10 days, a green based non-perfumed concealing foundation can be used beneath skin-coloured foundation.

The majority of patients undergoing chemical peels have no adverse effects and would be delighted to have a procedure again in the future. Potential adverse effects include permanent scarring, permanent darker pigmentation for those with darker skin types and chemical burns. Because adverse effects are described, you should provide your doctor with a complete medical history especially any history of heart disease, recurring cold sores, shingles and any tendency to hypertrophic or keloid (lumpy) scars.