When it comes to skin rejuvenation, chemical peels are popular and proven treatment options. From addressing acne scars to reducing wrinkles, these treatments offer a range of benefits for different body areas.
If you’re looking for professional skin treatments in London, we can customise your skin peel to address specific skin conditions and concerns.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the different types of chemical peels, their ingredients, and how they can transform your face, neck, chest, and more.
What Are Chemical Peels at Harley Clinic ?
Chemical peels are cosmetic treatments that use a combination of acids to exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell regeneration.
Depending on your skin type and concerns, you can choose between superficial chemical peels , medium peels, or deep chemical peels. Each peel type targets specific skin issues, from uneven skin tone to deep facial wrinkles.
Whether it’s a glycolic acid or lactic acid skin peel for a gentle exfoliation to something deeper, chemical peels are a proven way to achieve glowing results for our patients.
Types of Chemical Peels
Superficial Peels
Superficial peels, also known as light peels, use mild acids like glycolic acid and lactic acid to gently exfoliate the skin. This skin peel is ideal for treating minor skin concerns such as uneven skin tone, dryness, and active acne.
Glycolic peels help to resurface the skin, while lactic acid hydrates and soothes sensitive or acne-prone skin. The biggest advantage of a superficial skin peel is that it requires minimal downtime and is perfect if you’re looking to refresh your skin without a lengthy recovery period.
Medium Peels
Medium peels penetrate deeper into the skin and are designed to tackle moderate skin conditions, including acne breakouts, scarring, pigmentation, and age spots.
These treatments often use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to address more pronounced issues. a medium skin peel is a great option for those seeking more dramatic results compared to superficial peels.
Deep Chemical Peels
Deep chemical peels are the most intensive treatment option, capable of addressing severe wrinkles, deep acne scars, and pronounced pigmentation issues.
This skin peel often uses phenol or high concentrations of TCA and requires a longer recovery period. While the results are transformative, deep chemical peels should only be performed by experienced professionals.
Chemical Skin Peels for the Face
The face is the most common area for chemical peel treatments. Whether you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation, melasma, wrinkles, or acne scars, there are many chemical peels designed to address these concerns.
- Acne, Acne Scarring, Oily Skin: Superficial or glycolic acid skin peel can help unclog pores, reduce active acne, and fade scars.
- Wrinkles and Fine Lines: Medium or deep chemical peels are effective in smoothing out wrinkles and rejuvenating the skin.
- Uneven Skin Tone: Lactic acid and superficial peels are excellent for brightening the skin and evening out skin tone.
- Hyperpigmentation and Melasma: Targeted treatments using TCA or glycolic acid can significantly reduce pigmentation issues.
Chemical Peels for the Neck
The neck is prone to crepey skin and necklace lines, which can be effectively treated with chemical peels. Medium peels are particularly effective for reducing fine lines and improving skin elasticity in this area.
With a bespoke skin peel treatment plan, you can achieve a smoother skin and more youthful neck.
Chest and Décolletage
Years of sun export can lead to damage such as hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and blotchy appearance on the chest. Chemical peel treatments in this area can target dark spots, line and wrinkles, and uneven, rough skin texture.
Medium and deep chemical peels are especially beneficial for addressing these concerns, restoring a radiant and youthful appearance to the epidermis.
Shoulders, Arms, and Back
Acne scars and sun damage are common issues for the shoulders, arms, and back. If you suffer from these, it can make you self-conscious about wearing sleeveless tops or backless attire.
Glycolic acid peels and medium-depth treatments are highly effective in resurfacing the skin, reducing scars, and evening out skin tone. These treatments also help with exfoliation and improving overall skin texture.
Hands and Legs
The hands and legs often show signs of ageing, such as age spots, rough texture, and pigmentation. Superficial peels with glycolic acid or medium peels with TCA can effectively address these concerns.
A series of treatments can provide a smoother, more even-toned appearance and are tailored to your unique skin type and concerns.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your chemical peel procedure begins with an assessment of your skin type, concerns, and treatment goals to recommend the most suitable peel.
The procedure itself involves applying the chemical solution to the targeted area, allowing it to work for a specific duration, and in the case of medium and deep peels, neutralising it.
After the treatment, you might experience some redness, peeling, or sensitivity, depending on the peel’s intensity. Our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Keep in mind that for superficial and medium peels, a series of treatments may be required.
Home Care to Prolong Your Results
To maintain and enhance the results of your chemical peel, incorporating a good home care skincare routine is essential. Use products containing hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to keep your skin moisturised and prevent dryness.
Furthermore, antioxidants like vitamin C can help protect your skin from environmental damage and maintain an even skin tone. Regular use of sunscreen is crucial to shield your skin from harmful UV rays, as it will be more sensitive post-treatment.
Once your skin has healed, exfoliating products, such as gentle enzyme masks, can be used to maintain smoothness. By following a consistent skincare regimen, you can enjoy longer-lasting benefits from your chemical peel.
Side Effects and Aftercare
While chemical peels are generally safe, some side effects like redness, peeling, or sensitivity are normal. For deep chemical peels, you might require a longer recovery period.
It’s crucial to follow your clinic’s aftercare guidelines, including using sunscreen, avoiding exfoliation, and keeping the skin moisturised. Staying hydrated and avoiding harsh skincare products for a few days post-treatment will help optimise your results.
Contraindications: if you’re experiencing skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or severe rosacea, a thorough consultation will reveal if a chemical peel is suitable for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can chemical peels be combined with other skin treatments?
Yes, chemical peels can often be combined with other treatments such as microneedling or injectables to enhance results. However, your skin specialist will recommend the best combination based on your skin type and concerns.
2. Are chemical peels safe for sensitive skin?
Many superficial peels, like those containing lactic acid, are gentle enough for sensitive skin, even for rosacea. A consultation with your skincare professional can help determine the safest and most effective option for you.
3. How often should I get a chemical peel?
The frequency of chemical peels depends on the type of peel and your skin’s needs. Superficial peels can be done every 4-6 weeks, while medium and deep peels require longer intervals, typically several months apart.
Final Thoughts
In summary, chemical peels offer a versatile solution for a variety of skin concerns across different body areas. Whether you’re targeting acne scars on your back or fine lines on your face, there are treatment options to suit all your needs. With the right peel and proper home care, you can achieve smoother, brighter, and healthier skin. The best approach for a comprehensive and long-term result includes in-clinic treatments and targeted skincare products. This way you’ll enjoy lasting improvements and a confident, glowing complexion for years to come.
