Chemical peels induce a controlled wound to the skin, and can replace part or all of the top layers of skin. The key determinants to which chemical peel is right for you are; the degree of the skin problem/ageing/sun-damage, the skin type/colour, the amount of improvement you would like to achieve, and the amount of recovery or downtime that is acceptable by you.

Chemical peels are best performed by an experienced Skin Therapist. The skin is thoroughly cleansed with an appropriate cleanser first. A masking agent is sometimes used to protect the peel from entering the eye. A fan may be present to help cool the skin for comfort during the peel. Your eyes should be closed during the procedure.

The chemical peel solution is then applied to the face. The procedure is timed, and you will be asked about your comfort level. Neutralisation of the peel occurs at the end of the treatment. This ensures the chemical peel does not stay active on the skin for longer than necessary.

As a rule, the deeper the peel, the higher the rate of complications and the longer the recovery. Most superficial peels are safe and effective, where medium and deep peels require more experience from the operator and more careful pre-peel preparation and post-peel care.

Swelling – usually lasting up to three days, but it is usually only associated with the deeper peels.

Pain – again, this is only really seen with the deeper peels and may last for a few hours only.

Redness – most superficial peels produce a mild amount of redness that persists for a few days only. Medium to deep peels can cause redness that can persist for up to a month.

Itchiness – This is only common after medium and deep chemical peels.

Ocular injury – Care must be taken during the procedure to avoid the peel from entering the eye.