Chemical peels are a popular beauty treatment that can treat wrinkles and fine lines, acne, scarring, skin discolouration and more.

If you are considering or have been recommended a chemical peel for a skin concern, read on.

What is a chemical peel?

Chemical peels involve a solution being applied to the skin to remove the top layers, so that the skin that grows back is smoother and less blemished. Typically in gel or water-based form, chemical peels are applied to the skin like a light paint and remain active until otherwise neutralised with water.

Chemical peels can be superficial, medium and deep - requiring a skilled hand to neutralise the peel at the correct point to prevent unnecessary additional damage to the skin.

What is the downtime when you have a chemical peel?

Light peels can cause some skin redness but not many other effects so the downtime for these types of peels is quite minimal.

By contrast, deep peels can cause flaking and fluid retention among other effects, and while these effects can settle over a period of 7 to 10 days, the full benefits of a properly applied chemical peel may take longer to be visible as the skin heals and resolves from red to pink and then to normal.

What are the side effects of chemical peels?

Some side effects of chemical peels include:

• discomfort

• Inflammation

• Blistering

• Peeling

• Redness

• Acne

• Pigmentation

• Scarring

• Infection

However, if a peel is applied by an experienced professional, with correct skin preparation and sufficient after care, risks and side effects can be minor.

Do chemical peels hurt?

The sensation of a chemical peel will vary to each individual. However, generally speaking, the deeper that the peel is, the more discomfort you may feel. With a light superficial peel, this discomfort may be limited to some itching and a slight burning sensation.

How to prepare for a chemical peel

After discussion with your treatment professional, they may recommend that you being to prepare your skin approximately one month prior to your peel. Preparation can consist of regular cosmeceutical grade gentle preparatory treatments at home as well as suitable and mandatory aftercare which includes a quality and high SPF mosituring sunscreen.

Peels are best conducted by medical and nurse practitioners who have received additional cosmetic training, however some training beauty therapists may offer certain types of chemical peels.

The benefits and the potential risks should be thoroughly weighed before undergoing a chemical peel treatment, along with a complete history as previous sun exposure, skin damage and even medications can affect the outcome of a chemical peel.

Did you know? CQ Skin offers a complete care chemical peel kit that offers high grade cosmeceutical preparatory serum/s and post care protectice daily moisturiser in either SPF 30 or 50 in mattifying or hydrating formulations? These are available to purchase separately or when you book your chemical peel online.

How much do peels cost?

The cost of a chemical peel will vary depending on the type and the ingredients used. For superficial peels, you may require multiple visits and then on-going maintenance to maintain your results.

CQ Skin offers three types of chemical peels: Glycolic Acid Peels, TCA Peels and Jessner peels.

Glycolic Acid Peel

A Glycolic Acid Peel is a chemical peel that features Glycolic acid as the main component. Derived from sugar cane, Glycolic Acid helps to remove the ‘glue’ that holds the older, tougher and dry skin.

Varying between superficial and medium depth, this type of peel is ideal for acne, pigmentation, mild acne scarring, mild photo damage and uneven skin tone.

What to expect

A light layer of the peel is applied to the facial area and left for a period of time and is pain free, requiring no down time. While your skin may be red and you may feel some slight burning after the procedure, this is normal and will subside.

Jessner Peel

A Jessner Peel is a medium depth chemical peel and is the most effective peel to remove superficial layers of the skin and is used to treat a number of skin conditions including sun damage, ageing and hyper pigmentation.

This type of peel is suitable for many skin type and will help to both decrease oil production and open clogged pores.

What to expect

During application you may experience a warm, tingling sensation, however this is completely normal. After application you may feel that your skin appears white and frosted, turning to red over the course of the coming days before progressively deepening to a tan colour. Your skin may also feel very dry and tight.

TCA Peel

TCA peels are a medium depth chemical peel that penetrates deeper than a Glycolic or Jessner peel and is often considered a good choice for individuals with scarring or pigmentation issues. They are not suited to those with very sensitive skin and while they can produce great results, some of which are noticeable straight away, a downtime of at least a week is required.

Due to the nature of this type of peel, it can only be administered by qualified, registered professionals.

What to expect

During application you may experience a warm, tingling sensation, however this is completely normal. After the application you may notice that your skin is red and will begin to feel tight as the redness fades. Over the coming days, your treated skin will begin to shed in patches and it is important that during this period you ensure that you wear sunscreen every day and wash your face with a gentle cleanser.

And there you have it! This guide is by no means exhaustive and if you have any concerns, you should discuss these with your treatment provider. Book a consultation at CQ Skin by hitting the link below: