Chemical peels
Chemical peeling is a treatment designed to enhance the appearance of your skin. Peels are designed to exfoliate your skin and stimulate collagen production. Each peel regime is individualized according to the depth that is needed. The greater the depth the more dramatic the improvement, however with increasing peel depth the longer the recovery. Your dermatologist will tailor a suitable peel program to suit your needs and expectations. The majority of peels conducted are ‘lunch time’ peels- the procedure is complete within 15 minutes- makeup can be worn shortly thereafter with no interruption of your daily schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions can be treated with peels ?
- Acne- including blackheads and whiteheads
- Pigmentation- including melasma and freckling
- Sunspots, sundamage and age spots.
- Uneven skin tone and texture
- Fine wrinkling
- Pigmentation on the chest, arms and hands may also benefit from chemical peeling.
What is involved with the procedure?
The peel procedure takes approximately 15 minutes to perform. The area is cleansed and prepared, followed by application of a solution . The peel solution is then left on for a specified time and is then wash off. Generally the procedure is not painful, but slight prickling or tingling maybe experienced. This is short lived and ends when the peel is neutralized.
What to expect after the procedure…
Following a peel, the face maybe a little red. The redness usually fades in a few hours. Make up can be worn directly after a peel. There is little interruption to your daily activities.
How soon are the results seen with peels?
This will depend on the concentration used and the depth of the peel. We generally recommend a series of peels, each spaced two weeks apart. As the concentration increases you will notice more dramatic results. Results are generally seen by the third peel.
What are the costs involved with chemical peeling?
Chemical peels are a cost effective method of treating skin conditions. On average, each peel session cost $75; in effect it costs less than a facial, but the effects are longer lasting.
Peels are typically done by our specialist nurses with over 20 years experience – deeper peels are done by your specialist dermatologist.
(Though they are used for medical reasons, medicare does not typically reimburse the costs associated with peels.)
Are there any significant side effects associated with chemical peeling?
For superficial peels such as glycolic acid peels, side effects are uncommon. Very superficial blistering may occur in 2% of cases. This settles down in within two to three days. Occasionally redness may be prolonged- lasting up to four days after peeling. Deeper peels are associated with more side effects and a longer recovery period.
In summary…
Almost anyone can benefit from chemical peels. They are cost effective, hassle free and act as a good stepping stone for a new ‘you’. If needed we can combine BTX or Intense Pulse Light with chemical peels to come closer to your goals. Your dermatologist at Westside can guide you to the types of peels you can benefit from.
After my third peel, the pigmentation on my cheeks has faded and now I’m make-up free…a simple and effective procedure to fade pigmentation.
Linda K.
Sunnybank
The fruit acid peel does wonders for my blackheads. No drugs, no creams…and I am blemish free.
Michelle L.
Chapel Hill
A simple and painless way to freshen up my tired skin. Very happy with the treatments.
Judy G.
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