What is a chemical peel?
A chemical peel causes controlled damage to the epidermis and/or the dermis (top and second layers of skin) to stimulate new tissue and improve skin texture and tone. It reveals a smoother and more radiant complexion.
How does it work?
The peel solution decreases the the pH level at the surface of the skin and lower skin layers, this loosens the connections that holds together dead skin cells. It induces the exfoliation process on the skin and stimulates new cell growth which causes inflammation in the skin and increases wound healing.
Are there different types of peels?
Chemical peels are classified as light (superficial), medium or deep peels, this is dependant on the ingredients used and how deep they penetrate the skin. Light peels usually exfoliate the epidermis. Medium depth can treat through to the lower levels of the dermis. Deeper peels require more downtime and often have increased side effects. Here at Aeternum we focus only on light to medium depth peels for quick and effective results but minimal downtime.
Will my skin peel off?
Straight after your treatment you may still feel some slight tingling on the skin. We resemble the peeling process similar to peeling after a tan, some flaky skin on the surface. However, this is dependant on the depth of peel we use and every individual is different and not everyone peels. Peeling usually happens around 3-5 days after your initial treatment for fresh new skin to emerge.
My face didn’t peel, it didn’t work!?
It did! In some cases exfoliation happens on a cellular level and is not apparent to the naked eye. You can still have an effective peel without seeing your skin peel.
Will it hurt?
A peel tingles on the skin, feels like lots of tiny tiny pin pricks on the face. This usually subsides within 4/5 minutes and starts to ease and calm down. Sometimes the skin can feel slightly warm, but no, a peel does not hurt but may feel slightly uncomfortable for a few minutes.
Will my skin be really red after?
Some skins can look a bit red after treatment but this is just down to the peel stimulating the skin cells and not a reaction. If your skin is red it’s usually over the cheeks and forehead and will subside within a few hours.
How often should I have a peel?
We recommend a peel generally every 4 weeks, one peel will make a difference to the texture and brightness of the skin but a series of six chemical peels will really help to target the root cause of your concern like acne, ageing, pigmentation or rosacea.
How it will benefit my skin?
Peels encourage exfoliation by sloughing off dead skin cells forcing your body to replenish them quickly and rejuvenate the skin. They improve the texture and firmness decreasing fine lines and wrinkles. They are also great at evening out skin tone, improving acne-prone skin and reducing pore size.
Can I combine it with my other favorite treatments?
Absolutely! We often recommend combining a chemical peel with our Dermalux LED Phototherapy. For a number of reasons – it soothes and calms the skin after treatment, if you have acne/outbreaks our blue light is antiomicrobial and our red light will boost collagen production. Dermalux is a great add on to our peel treatments. Another popular combo treatment is dermaplaning with a chemical peel. This combines manual and chemical exfoliation to give you a greater level of exfoliation and baby soft skin. We also have our SKINFIT 6 month treatment plans which combine chemical peels, LED light therapy, microneedling and medical grade skincare to treat specific skin concerns.
What happens during the treatment?
We will start by assessing your skin through a consultation to see which peel will be most suitable. Then cleanse the face thoroughly, apply a balancing solution followed by a skin specific mask. We will then apply a thin layer of the peel to the skin, carefully watching how your skin reacts. After neutralising we finish with personalised serums and creams for an additional exfoliating boost to the skin and an SPF for UV protection.
How long will it take?
Our peels usually take around 45 minutes.
What do I do with my skin after my peel?
After your peel we will give you a post procedure kit which has products in for you to use for 3/4 days after. Do not use any glycolic acids, retinol, vitamin c etc on the skin for 14 days post peel. Avoid waxing, threading or any exfoliation treatments for 7 days. Wear SPF daily and avoid sunbathing and sunbeds for 14 days. After your treatment we send you a post procedure guide of what to and what not to do just to give you some guidance.
I love how my skin feels after my peel, when can I book in for my next one?
Ring 01530 417 897 and we will book you in for when your next treatment is due!
