What are Chemical Peels? Chemical peels are a method of regenerating and resurfacing the skin by inducing a controlled wound to the skin. They remove the top layers skin to help induce collagen remodelling and therefore improve sun-damaged skin, skin pigmentation problems, wrinkles, skin texture, and the overall appearance of the skin. The strength of the chemical peel will determine its depth. Deeper peels will have a greater number of complications and a longer recovery, but also will result in a greater improvement in the skin.   WHAT DOES TREATMENT INVOLVE ?  After a full consultation with our dermal clinicians a treatment plan with be established. This will determine the correct type and depth of chemical peel and the appropriate intervals between treatments. Initially you will go home with a skin preparation regime of appropriate home care products to prepare and prime your skin for the procedure. �It is important to avoid sun exposure, tanning, exfoliation and non-prescribed skin care products before the treatment as this may affect the end result and result in unwanted side effects. By adhering to the pre-treatment skin preparation your results will be optimized with a lower risk of any side effects and downtime. �On the day of treatment your face will be cleansed and the peeling solution applied. Depending on the type of peel this will be left on for a set amount of time and either neutralized or washed off soon after. In some cases the peel may remain on your face and you will leave the clinic with the peel still on. The treatment is not painful and many people simply feel a slight tingling and stinging sensation afterwards. In cases of deeper and stronger chemical peels the discomfort is a little bit more and a fan is used to cool the face during treatment. Following the treatment you will feel some slight tingling and the skin will look red and flushed.   HOW LONG DOES THE CHEMICAL PEEL TREATMENT LAST ?  Skin improvements are subtle and results will be enhanced by completing the recommended course of treatments. Many find that after one treatment the skin has a healthier glow, with a reduction in pore size, acne and fine lines with a more even texture and tone. The expected results for each particular type of chemical peel will be discussed during your consultation and treatment plan. Ongoing maintenance with home care products and regular treatments are essential to ensure long lasting results and healthy skin. Skin improvements are subtle and results will be enhanced by completing the recommended course of treatments. Many find that after   WHAT HAPPENS AFTER CHEMICAL PEEL TREATMENT? After a treatment your face will feel slightly red and irritated but makeup can be applied. After 3-5 days there may be some mild skin shedding and peeling. This depends on the strength and depth of the peel and can range from almost nothing with a superficial lactic peel to 5 days of shedding with a Jessner’s or TCA peel. In cases of deeper peels your skin can appear pink for a few months after treatment. The downtime is minimal and aside from visible skin peeling many go back to work the following day. The down time for your particular course of chemical peels will be explained fully at your consultation. It is important to follow your aftercare instructions and not to pick at any peeling as this can increase the risk of complications such as scarring and infection. Protecting your skin from the sun and avoiding any active home care products (such as vitamin A) is important as the skin is healing after the procedure.   ARE CHEMICAL PEEL SAFE ? Medical grade chemical peels are safe and effective with virtually no side effects. Medium and deep chemical peels are associated with more down time and possible side effects and some of these peels can only be performed by a doctor. Depending on the chemical peel course determined for you, the possible risks and side effects will be explained. For any discomfort after the procedure we advise simple pain relief, cool packs and gels and frequent application of a broad spectrum SPF. As chemical peels cause a mild exfoliation the risks are minimal. In some cases, abnormal pigmentation can occur such as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This can be minimized by avoiding the sun after your treatment, wearing broad spectrum SPF and if needed can be treated by prescription lightening creams. Picking and scratching at peeling skin after the treatment can also result in infection and scarring so it is important to leave the skin alone and trust in the healing process.