Chemical peels are fast growing in popularity thanks to their non-invasive nature and relatively inexpensive cost compared to surgical alternatives. As one of the most highly requested procedures in the UK, aesthetic patients love chemical peeling for its ability to improve skin tone and produce a fresh and youthful glow.
If you’re considering a chemical peel but unsure of the available options or which might work best for your skin, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to discover the three main types of chemical peeling, the benefits of each for your specific concerns and why chemical is good for your skin.
What is chemical peeling?
Chemical peeling is a technique used by aestheticians to smooth and improve the texture of your complexion. A peel solution is applied to remove the top layers of the skin, encouraging your skin to regenerate and stimulating the growth of new cells. With results generally visible in around four to eight days, the relatively quick procedure minimises wrinkles, improves brightness and tackles other issues such as scarring, hyperpigmentation, acne and rosacea. While some people opt for a single treatment, the best results can be seen from multiple sessions over a consistent period.
Types of chemical peel
There are three main chemical peeling techniques, which vary in the depth of exfoliation they provide. The type of peel that best suits you will depend on the complexity of your skin and your aesthetic goals.
Superficial peels are best suited to treat acne, uneven skin tone and dryness and remove the outer layer of your skin. Many patients opt to undergo light peels every few weeks to keep minor skin concerns under control.
A medium-depth peel removes the top layer and portions from the layer below, treating issues below the skin’s surface, including acne scars, wrinkles and uneven skin tone.
A deep peel goes deeper into the skin’s surface and is most commonly used for scarring or deep wrinkles. You will likely only need to undergo this procedure once as it can be fairly harsh on the skin, particularly if repeated. It’s also important to note that even the highest level of chemical peel can’t remove intense scars or wrinkles, though it might improve their appearance.
Why is chemical peeling good for your skin?
Tailored to your needs
There is no one-size-fits-all, and chemical peels are carefully tailored to suit your skin type and goals. As well as the varying depths of exfoliation, a wide range of peels have been created to tackle specific issues. These include Alpha Hydroxy Peels, Beta Hydroxy Peels, Phenol Peels and Trichloroacetic Peels. Your aesthetician will take your consultation appointment as an opportunity to discuss your concerns and develop a personalised treatment plan.
Helps combat acne and acne scars
If you suffer from acne, you’ll be familiar with its lasting effects on your confidence and how you feel about yourself. Chemical peels are one of the most popular non-invasive methods for combating acne and its impact, proving more effective exfoliation than scrubs or home remedies such as creams and lotions. Chemical peeling not only kills and removes dead skin cells but also promotes the production of collagen, aiding with the healing of scars.
Positively impacts ageing skin
If you find that your skin is losing elasticity and becoming more wrinkled due to the effects of ageing, chemical peeling can help to smooth out any lines and give your skin a new lease of life. When the outer layer of skin is removed, the new layer that heals and forms is smoother and less wrinkled in appearance. Collagen production also promotes enhanced elasticity, helping the skin to look and feel younger and reducing the prominence of fine lines and wrinkles.
Reduces hyperpigmentation
A chemical peel will remove the epidermis in your skin, encouraging new cell growth and removing the pigmented layer of skin. There are several reasons your complexion may suffer from hyperpigmentation — from age spots or melasma to sun damage. If you are regularly exposed to the sun, chemical peels could worsen your hyperpigmentation, so keep this in mind before proceeding with treatment.
Brightens a dull complexion
There are many reasons for dull skin, but the most common is dead skin cells. Over the course of a day, your skin sheds millions of dead cells, which can quickly build up as a layer on your skin, stopping it from reflecting light and giving your skin a lacklustre appearance. Other causes can be stress, lack of sleep, dehydration and an unhealthy lifestyle, all of which can clog pores, reduce blood flow to your face and reduce moisture. A chemical peel will remove all the dead skin on your face, encourage new cell growth and allow your skin to breathe.
Acquisition Aesthetics offers gold-standard non-surgical aesthetic procedures and skin treatments to our model patients at a fraction of the price you’d expect to pay in a clinic. To find out more about chemical peeling and what it could do for your skin, get in touch with us on 0203 514 8757 or email models@acquisitionaesthetics.co.uk.
