SKIN
PEELS
Improve the overall appearance of the skin and help correct the appearance of facial blemishes. Chemical peels
are used to reduce the harmful effects that smoking and sun exposure has on the skin, as well as reducing
uneven pigmentation, acne and some scarring. The process helps to accelerate the removal of old, dead skin
cells at the surface and to promote new growth. Peels can be used to treat particular areas of the face or as an
all over rejuvenation treatment for face, hands and neck.
Depending on the type of peel that you are having, treatments can take up to 30 minutes. There is the choice of
superficial, medium, or deep peels and with all types of peel, you may need to use specified cream products
before your treatment. These products help to prepare your skin and ensure that it’s in an optimum condition for
the process.
Superficial Peels
Superficial peels remove skin cells from the epidermis (top layer of the skin). These peels use combinations of
alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) and betahydroxy acids (BHAs) like glycolic acid, lactic acid, salycilic acid and maleic
acid. Treatments take a few minutes, and your skin may feel pink and tight for a couple of hours afterwards.
Medium Peels
Medium peels can remove skin cells from both the epidermis and upper part of the dermis (middle layer of the
skin). These peels usually contain trichloroacetic acid (TCA) sometimes used in combination with glycolic acid.
The peel stays on your face for a few minutes before being neutralised. A burning or stinging sensation can be
felt during the application of the peel with the skin often turning brown or red in the days after the treatment. It can
take up to six weeks for the skin to return to its normal tone.
Deep peels
This procedure should always be carried out by a surgeon or dermatologist with relevant skills and experience in
an establishment that is registered with the Healthcare Commission. Going deeper into the lower part of the
dermis, these peels are performed using phenol (a strong form of TCA) and often require a local anaesthetic and
sedative. The peel is applied to the face, and a ‘freezing’ sensation is felt. After treatment, pain is treated with
painkillers and there will be some peeling, redness and discomfort for a few days. You should use the
recommended cleanser and cream and wear no make up for the first 24 hours, also use sunscreen. The majority
of the swelling should disappear within 14 days. A deep peel is a ‘one-off’ treatment with lasting effects, unlike
superficial and medium peels.
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Glycolic peel
Vitamin A peel
easy TCA peel