Who is suitable?
Fine wrinkling can be reduced, though deeper lines will remain, (some of which can be improved by other methods) with chemical peeling. Most brown marks, freckles and pigmentation can be removed or lessened, especially age and liver spots (lentigines).
However, pigment changes can be caused by a chemical peel in people prone to this complication due to their skin type. People known to develop brown discolouration after injury such as a mild burn should have a test area peeled first before undergoing a full face chemical peel.
Scaly patches and rough skin (keratoses) can be removed. Very thick keratoses may need additional treatment for complete removal. Skin that is thin and fragile e.g. sun-damaged skin, bald scalp skin, can be significantly rejuvenated.
Chemical peeling is not a substitute for a facelift. It does not tighten sagging skin, stimulate collagen production or remove broken capillaries. Chemical peeling is not appropriate for people who will continue to have excessive sun exposure.
What is the chemical peel procedure?
Chemical peels may be performed with local anaesthesia, which will numb the area to be treated. First your skin will be thoroughly cleansed.
Then, the doctor will carefully apply the chemical solution and perform the chemical peel. At the conclusion, appropriate dressings will be applied. The chemical peel treatment typically will take 30 to 45 minutes. Sometimes the skin may have had preparation with Vitamin A, Alpha Hydroxy Acid or other preparations.
Firstly the skin is thoroughly cleansed with acetone or other cleanser. The acid is then painted onto the face and monitored. If burning or stinging is a problem, a cold pack or cold air may be helpful. Usually the treatment is carried out in sections. Patients who find it particularly uncomfortable may choose intravenous anaesthetic, but then would not be able to drive a car for several hours.
What happens afterwards?
The doctor will coat the chemical peel treated area with protective gel. If you had a lighter chemical peel, no covering is necessary and you will be given postoperative instructions before sending you home.
The skin will go red and swollen over the next 24 hours. Once the initial burning has worn off it is not painful, but feels tight.
Over the next few days the skin dries and looks like brownish leather. Vaseline should be applied several times a day to prevent cracking. Water will do no harm but soap should be avoided. The skin will begin to chemical peel between 5 and 7 days later, and must be left to come off at its own pace.
As soon as the skin has healed, make up may be applied over the new, pink skin. Sometimes a secondary peel occurs during the second week in the form of dry scaling skin. Sunscreen is mandatory for at least three months, and moisturisers are helpful.
Chemical peel treatment can be repeated after three months, but this is not usually necessary. It can be repeated at any time in the future and will not harm the skin. The habitual use of sunscreen will prevent further sun damage and therefore maintain the improved skin quality.
Are there any complications of chemical peel treatment ?
Scarring can occur with strong acids, but is unusual with weaker ones. The most common causes of scarring are infection, and pulling off the skin before it is ready to chemical peel. Both of these are avoidable.
Cold sores can be activated in those prone to this kind of condition. Anti viral medication can prevent this. Increased pigmentation may occur, and resolves with time. It can be largely prevented by religious use of sunscreen for three months after the chemical peel.
Which chemical skin peel is for you?
Our experienced staff - during your consultation - will examine your skin and apply a Designer Chemical Peel; one which will meet the demands and requirements of your skin by using a combination of different chemical peels.
How about aftercare?
At London Medical and Aesthetic Clinic, we take a special pride in our excellent levels of support and aftercare. We will invite you back to the Clinic for follow-up examinations with your doctor or our nursing staff.
How much does a chemical skin peel cost?
For an estimate on how much a skin chemical peel may cost, we recommend that you call us on 0208 342 1100 for our latest skin chemical peel prices. For specific information based on your individual needs, we will be happy to arrange a consultation with our experienced staff.