Chemical PeelsWhat are chemical skin peels?
![]() The chemical peel is a non-surgical way of rejuvenating the skin. Controlled “peeling” of the surface layers of the skin by a chemical solution allows new healthy skin to heal from below, thus revealing a softer, smoother, clearer skin underneath.
Who is a candidate?
The typical candidate for chemical peeling has sun damaged skin or pigmentation problems. Different strengths of peel are used, depending on the skin condition and the depth of peel required.
Superficial peels only treat surface irregularities of the skin. They can improve fine lines, shallow pigmentation and dull rough sun-damaged skin. Deeper peels are able to reduce fine wrinkling and acne scarring. Brown “age” spots, freckles and pigmentation can also be removed or lessened.
What is involved in the treatment?
Prior to the chemical peeling process, your doctor will evaluate your skin in order to determine the appropriate peel for your skin type and skin condition. Usually a pre-peel skin preparation is performed at home for 2 weeks prior to the peel treatment. This prepares the skin and allows the best results to be obtained with the peel treatment.
The peel process itself is relatively simple and is performed as an office procedure. After the skin is thoroughly cleaned, the peeling solution is applied to the skin with gauze or a brush applicator. After a predetermined period of time and depending on the peeling agent used, the peeling solution is rinsed off with cold water or a neutralising solution.
A series of peels are usually required, depending on the skin condition being treated.
What can you expect after the treatment?
As a general rule, superficial peels have less “downtime” for patients, however; often require multiple treatments to achieve the desired results. Medium depth peels have a longer recovery time but more dramatic results are seen with fewer treatments. Some superficial peels cause little or no flaking of the skin whereas other agents cause substantial peeling. During the recovery phase products are applied to keep the skin moist during the healing process. Sun avoidance is also extremely important in the recovery phase.
What are the potential risks?
All procedures that interfere with the skin surface have potential risks. The deeper the peel the greater the possible risks. Dr Regli will inform you of all the possible risks prior to the procedure and will also discuss ways of minimizing them.
If you would like any more information on Chemical Peels, and how this treatment can help you look your best, please fill in our online Enquiry Form to book your consultation with Dr Kylie Regli. |



