Chemical peel
Medical facial chemical peel: controlled skin renewal for pigmentation, acne marks and uneven texture, with strict sun protection.
What a peel is
It's the application of a chemical solution that triggers controlled renewal of the surface layers of the skin. Removing them stimulates the formation of new skin, more even in colour and texture. Depending on the substance and concentration, a peel is superficial, medium or deep, and that completely changes the effect, the recovery time and the risks.
What it's used for
- Pigmentation: melasma and sun spots, with a specific approach for each case.
- Marks and uneven texture after acne.
- Mild to moderate active acne, as part of an acne treatment plan.
- Dull skin, enlarged pores or signs of sun damage.
How it's done
The skin is cleansed, the solution is applied for a few minutes — you'll feel warmth or stinging — and then neutralised. The session is short. Afterwards, depending on the depth, there can be redness and flaking for several days: that's the intended effect, not a complication. Several sessions are usually scheduled, weeks apart.
The part that decides the result
The sun. A peel without strict sun protection can leave you with more pigmentation than you started with, especially on darker skin and with melasma. That's why the skin is prepared beforehand, the time of year is chosen carefully, and daily sun protection afterwards is essential. The prior assessment decides which type of peel your skin can handle: not every skin handles the same one.
Frequently asked questions
How many days will my face be peeling?
It depends on the depth of the peel. With superficial ones there is redness and fine flaking for a few days; with medium ones, more obvious and longer lasting. It is the intended effect, not a complication, and you are told beforehand so you can plan your diary.
Can it be done in summer?
With caution and depending on the type. The sun is what decides the outcome: a peel without strict sun protection can end up leaving more marks than there were to begin with, especially on darker skin and in melasma. That is why the time of year is chosen carefully and the skin is prepared beforehand.
Does it work for acne marks?
It helps with uneven texture and with the marks acne leaves behind, within a plan and over several sessions. Deep scars require other treatments. And always after active acne is under control: treating marks while new lesions keep appearing makes no sense.
How does your face look after a peel?
It depends on the depth: with superficial peels there is redness and fine flaking for a few days; with medium peels, the skin darkens slightly and peels more noticeably for almost a week. Afterwards it is left more even and radiant. It is planned in the knowledge that there are a few days of "peel face".
How do you do a peel at home?
Chemical peels that actually get results require controlled concentration and neutralisation: doing it at home with lemon, bicarbonate of soda or products bought online is the fast track to a burn and to more pigmentation. What does work at home is a routine with retinoids or mild acids prescribed by the doctor.