Chemical face peels –– blotchy, red and irritated skin coming to mind? You may have heard horror stories about the chemical face peel, it’s got the word peel in it for a start, but the reality is a chemical peel is basically an exfoliator that just goes deeper than a traditional home scrub. Think of a peel as lifting the dead skin off your face whilst leaving you refreshed, rejuvenated and relaxed. 

How does it work?

Regular exfoliation is key for the skin but a chemical peel goes that one step further. Sure, we all put on a face mask from time to time in the hope that we’ll wake up the next morning feeling 10 years younger with flawless skin but it doesn’t always happen; this is where the chemical face peel comes in.

If you’re looking to reduce the appearance of acne, wrinkles or fine lines then the chemical face peel is for you. During the process liquids are brushed onto the face to remove dead skin cells and stimulate the growth of new cells. Your skin will experience some excessive dryness but this doesn’t usually happen until 2-4 days after, the face will start to ‘peel’ but by day 5 you should be good to go with glowing and smooth skin. 

The different types of chemical face peel

So what’s the deal with the peel? In general there are three types of peel: superficial, medium and deep. The cost of a mild face peel can be anywhere in between £60-£100 with a deep peel even going over £500 at times. The deeper peel of course has longer lasting effects but it can be painful and present more risks. 

Although there are three main types of peel, there are lots of specific types of peels within these categories. Dependent on the type of results you want, one of our practitioners will advise you on the best course of action. 

If you’re looking to get rid of that red, inflamed skin then try an enzyme peel but if you’re trying to prevent ageing and discolouration then go for a glycolic acid peel. 

Chemical peels can be used to target multiple skin conditions including: acne, post-breakout marks, pigmentation, fine lines, age spots, uneven skin tone, dryness and wrinkles. All you need to do is chat to your practitioner about which one is best for you.

Do I need to do anything before I come in for a chemical face peel?

The short answer? Yes. Try not to wax or shave 2-4 days before as well as avoiding the sun beds for two weeks. Before you receive treatment make sure that you avoid products that contain AHA (alpha hydroxy acid)/BHAs (beta hydroxy acid) for 4 days before. Your exfoliants should say what they contain on the packet. If you’re at all unsure, check with us first. As a general rule of thumb don’t try any exfoliation techniques 14 days before your treatment.  

Do I need to do anything after I receive a chemical face peel?

Some people are deterred from the chemical face peel due to the post treatment side effects that may occur but as long as you follow our advice you shouldn’t come into any complications. Wash your face with cleanser every morning and night followed by moisturising but be careful not to over-do it with the moisturiser as you need to allow the process of skin peeling. 

Just like before the treatment, avoid using any sun beds, facial treatments, hot tubs, swimming pools, steam rooms, saunas or anything that causes excess perspiration for the following 7 days. In order to aid hydration make sure you drink at least 2 litres of water a day. 

Still not convinced?

A chemical face peel is one of the safest ways to treat acne, fine lines, discolouration and more! It’s natural to be concerned over something you’ve never tried before but if you’re looking for an exfoliator that really works pop in for a FREE consultation.