Chemical peels have been used for decades to reveal brighter, healthier skin. Though the idea of applying acid to your face might seem extreme, chemical peels have a long track record of safety and efficacy, particularly when performed in a professional medical setting. Our chemical peels can address a multitude of skin concerns by enhancing the natural revitalization process of your skin. Contact our clinic in Chatswood to schedule a consultation.
What Are Chemical Peels?
A chemical peel is an in-office skin rejuvenation and exfoliation procedure. The way a chemical peel works is relatively straightforward: the acid disrupts the bonds between dead skin cells to resurface your complexion. The speed and depth of the peel are determined by various factors, including what type of acid is used, its pH level (acidity), the concentration of the solution and the duration it’s left on the skin.
How Do Chemical Peels Work?
A chemical peel injures the skin in a controlled way. The skin then repairs itself by sloughing off outer layers of blemished, dull and dead skin cells to reveal the new skin underneath. One of the main distinguishing factors of a chemical peel is which layers of skin it treats.
Superficial peels use mild acids to penetrate the top layer of skin only. These are sometimes called “lunchtime peels” because they involve the fewest restrictions and the least amount of downtime, if any.
Medium peels penetrate deeper into the skin to provide stronger effects. They may involve some peeling and downtime, but the healing process is generally over within a week.
Deep peels use acid that penetrates not only the outer layers of the skin, but also the middle layers. They induce the most peeling, require the longest recovery time and have the most post-treatment restrictions, but they also have the most profound impact on the skin.
What Can Be Treated With Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels are quite versatile. The appropriate peel will be selected based on your concerns, which may include:
- Dull skin
- Fine lines
- Sun damage
- Enlarged pores
- Hyperpigmentation
- Acne and acne scars
- Rough skin texture
- Uneven skin tone
Who Are Sydney Chemical Peels For?
Before your chemical peel, you will meet with one of our providers for a consultation. This step is required to discuss your concerns and goals, evaluate your skin and determine your suitability for this treatment.
Mild and moderate peels are relatively safe for all skin tones and may also be suitable for people with sensitive skin. Deep peels may not be suitable for dark complexions that are prone to hyperpigmentation.
You may not be a good candidate for a chemical peel at this time if you have taken certain medications for acne, are prone to cold sores or have a history of sensitivity to any ingredient in the peel.
How Should I Prepare Before a Chemical Peel?
How you prepare your skin pre-peel is just as important as how you care for it afterwards. Your provider may advise you to stop using certain products for a period of time before your treatment. You should also avoid scrubbing, waxing or bleaching treatments for at least one week prior to your peel. Be careful to avoid sunburns and limit your sun exposure for two weeks before the appointment. These steps will minimise irritation in your skin.
Depending on the type of peel you’re having, you may be given a pre-treatment skincare regimen to enhance your results.
How Are Chemical Peel Treatments Performed?
Your AF Aesthetics provider will first clean your skin to ensure that any oil, dirt and makeup are removed. A light peel will not require an anaesthetic. Anaesthetics or sedatives are sometimes used with medium or deep peels.
After your skin has been prepped, your provider will carefully and evenly apply the chemical solution over your face, making sure to keep a safe distance from your lips and eyes. You will then rest while the peel is left on to take effect. You may feel a tingling sensation while the peel does its work.
Once enough time has passed, the peel may be neutralised or you may be free to go with the solution still on your skin. This final step depends on which peel is used.
What Is the Expected Downtime After a Chemical Peel?
Downtime varies considerably based on the depth of the chemical peel.
Superficial peels may not involve any peeling at all. If peeling occurs, it is likely to be light flaking accompanied by mild redness for two to three days. There is no need to take time off work as long as you are comfortable with your appearance.
Medium-depth peels will trigger a peeling process. The skin may temporarily be red and dry, perhaps with a tight or swollen feeling. The peeling typically lasts for several days, during which you may prefer to be away from work and social activities. By day seven, most exfoliation will be complete.
The deepest peels may require weeks of recovery, followed by several months of diligent sun avoidance.
How Many Chemical Peels Will I Need?
Superficial peels can be done on a regular basis to maintain a fresh complexion. Stronger peels should be spaced at least four to six months apart.
One of our expert staff will work with you to create an individualised treatment plan if a series of peels or an ongoing peel regimen is recommended.
Discover Chemical Peels at AF Aesthetics
If you’re looking for a fresher complexion, a chemical peel may be a solution for you. Our chemical peels are convenient and cost-effective treatments that can improve the health and appearance of skin in numerous ways. Talk with one of our experienced providers to find out whether a peel might be right for you.
Contact AF Aesthetics here or call us on 8004 3323 to schedule your visit.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
Do chemical peels hurt?
Our peels are relatively comfortable. You may feel some warmth or stinging during the treatment, but this means the acid is working. The discomfort may fade quickly or it might last until the treatment is finished. Remember, everyone’s tolerance level is different.
Chemical peels vs. lasers — what is the difference?
Chemical peels and laser therapy are both powerful options for skin rejuvenation and exfoliation. Both modalities work by creating a controlled injury in the skin, but chemical peels achieve this with acids and laser treatments do it with light energy.
What acids are used in chemical peels?
Some of the acids commonly used in chemical peels include glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol.