Chemical Skin Peel

I am a reformed sunworshipper and I have noticed that my skins appearance has changed. I have always had freckles but now some areas of my face appear to be darker than others. I have seen skin-bleaching products in my local chemist – can I use these on my face?

We would suggest a skin assessment to identify the condition of your skin but also to view how it will look, if you do not take steps to improve your skincare regime, ideally by using a sunblock daily. Over the counter products may be convenient and cheaper than attending a clinic such as SurgiCare, but this can be false economy.

Most do not have the required strength to actually produce results plus, if not applied correctly, can cause more problems than you are trying to eradicate. We can use powerful prescription only products to reduce unwanted pigmentation.

A low concentration chemical peel such as a Unideep Peel could be used on your skin, to even out skintone and reduce pigmentation. This married with an aftercare programme incorporating a range of topical antioxidants and Vitamin C products such as SkinCeuticals, will ensure that you maintain and defend the skin against any further damage.

How would I know which type of chemical peel I need?

There are various types of chemical peel - superficial, medium and deep - and they achieve different results. Superficial chemical peels are easy to apply and the time needed for healing is minimal, but they won't achieve long lasting or dramatic results. Medium chemical peels can achieve more dramatic and long lasting results for blemishes, fine lines and facial scarring. A deep peel will help reduce more severe facial wrinkles.

How long would it take to see results froma chemical peel?

The selected chemical peel will be applied to your face for an appropriate amount of time and then it will be removed. The recovery time depends on the type of skin peel you've had. It can take a couple of weeks before you can resume normal activities after a medium or deep peel.

How do I protect my skin to ensure that I don’t damage it again, especially after spending money on a chemical peel?

Your clinician will give you careful instructions on caring for your skin as it heals, and it is important that you follow these carefully to minimise the risk of complications. You will need to wear sunblock while your skin recovers to avoid developing a blotchy or uneven complexion.

The chance of complications following a chemical peel depends on the type of treatment and other factors such as your general health. Your specialist will explain how the risks apply to you.

Learn more about chemical skin peels