Post-treatment care is essential: You’ll need to avoid sun exposure and follow the recommended skincare regimen to protect your skin as it heals.
What can chemical peels help with?
Chemical peels are highly versatile and can address a range of skin concerns, including:
- Uneven skin tone and pigmentation issues like melasma or sunspots.
- Fine lines and wrinkles.
- Acne and acne scars.
- Dull or rough skin texture.
- Enlarged pores.
- Rosacea and melasma.
Can anyone get a chemical peel?
Not everyone is a candidate for chemical peels. Factors to consider include:
Skin condition: Skin should be well hydrated before undertaking a chemical peel with no cuts or cracks in the skin. If there is a history of cold sores, discuss with your doctor who may start some preventative treatment to prevent cold sores.
Medical history: Conditions like active infections, certain skin disorders, or recent use of isotretinoin may make you unsuitable for a peel. If you are pregnant of breastfeeding your practitioner would defer your treatment.
Does a chemical peel hurt?
Superficial and medium depth skin peels are generally not painful. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild tingling or warmth during the procedure. Certain medium depth and deeper chemical peels can be uncomfortable. The doctor would discuss tolerance before the procedure and give treatment if more comfort is needed.
What’s the downtime after a chemical peel?
Recovery varies depending on the depth of the peel:
- Light peels: Typically within 1-3 days.
- Medium peels: Usually require around seven days for recovery.
- Deep peels: Can take two weeks.
How many chemical peels would you recommend?
The number of chemical peels you might need would vary depending on your specific skin concerns:
- Hyperpigmentation: If you’re looking to fade acne scars or hyperpigmentation, I’d recommend around six treatments, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
- Wrinkles: For targeting wrinkles, fine lines, or dullness, a course of 3-5 treatments over a few months can make a noticeable difference.
- Scarring: For deep scarring or more severe skin concerns, you may need more intensive treatment, with 1-2 peels a year being sufficient for maintenance.
Ultimately, your treatment plan will be tailored to your skin’s needs and goals for the best results.
Got a skin question for our derms? Drop us a DM at @glamouruk.