What Chemical Peels Treat?

The purpose of a peel is to correct uneven pigmentation, treat acne and soften the appearance of scars. The procedure can also reduce the appearance of wrinkles caused by sun damage as well as skin blemishes common with age and heredity.

What are chemical peels?

At the Aesthetic and Laser Clinic we have a variety of skin peels, depending on skin type and ailment. In this section we shall address Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) peels. TCA peels are chemical solutions which vary in strength, improving, strengthening and repairing the collagen and elastin fibres of the skin.

What chemical peels treat:

TCA can be successful in effective treatment of:

• Reduction of smooth fine surface wrinkles
• Reduction of superficial blemishes
• Correction of pigment problems
• Reduction of acne or acne scarring

For some it may be necessary to “pre treat” the areas prior to a peel in order to maximise the peel effects. Darker skin tones and hyperpigmented areas, involves using bleach and blend cream two weeks prior to aTCA peels. Those with Active Acne also require skin preparation with our purifying cream two weeks prior to TCA peels.

Chemical peels can be performed on the face, hands, décolletage and all other body areas.

How it works:

The procedure involves a chemical solution which is applied to the skin. The solution causes the layer of skin to separate and peel off, The new regenerated skin underneath is usually smoother, less wrinkled and more even in both tone and colour than the old skin.

How long is each treatment?

Typically the skin is first thoroughly cleansed. Then your Aesthetic and Laser Clinic Medical Practitioner will carefully apply the TCA solution. A slight stinging sensation is experienced as the peel is applied, yet the feeling will quickly pass. A full face TCA peel usually takes no more than 15 minutes. Each course duration is 4 weeks, with one peel performed each week. Two or more courses of TCA peels may be required to obtain the desired results and may be spaced out over several months.

Expected Treatment Outcomes:

Treatment Day Immediately post peel the Patient leaves our Clinic with the post peel mask applied. This is translucent and non-oily. The skin may appear slightly red for a couple of hours, yet will generally feel comfortable. The Patient should not touch the skin, apply any creams or use water on the face, alongside avoiding extremes of heat and sun exposure.

Day 1 The skin will begin to feel tight and the treatment creams recommended should be applied morning and night. Sun protection, at least factor 25 should be applied.

Day 2 Some pigmentation change may be noticed at this stage, as the skin begins to dry and may start to flake. Treatment creams recommended should be utilised at least twice daily.

Day 3-6 The skin continues to peel and the healing process takes place. The Patient should continue with the recommended creams and sun protection.

There should be no attempt to peel off the skin or use abrasives, scrub creams or products containing AHA or retinol.

Day 7 Client returns to the Clinic for next treatment.

The complete course is 10 weeks; 4 weeks of peels and 6 weeks of skin regeneration. In some cases an additional 2 weeks prior for preparation.

Depending on the condition of your skin and the results you are looking for, your Aesthetic and Laser Skin Practitioner will help you choose the peel and daily care products you require. Only your Aesthetic and Laser Clinic Practitioner is qualified to do this.