All About Chemical Peels

No longer a rarity, chemical peel treatments continue to grow in popularity (thanks for the stat Forbes) why? you ask . . . could it be because brighter, smoother skin is achievable after just one treatment? Maybe it’s down to the fact that you can have one in your lunch break, and they don’t break the bank? Is it because after a series of peels you can see a dramatic improvement in most skin conditions? Or perhaps it’s because they can be tailored to your skin’s needs and give it just what it needs? Sounding pretty good now! But we do get it, ‘acid’, ‘peel’, and ‘chemical’ all sound a bit scary, and we’ve all seen that episode of SATC when Samantha’s impromptu peel led to a Halloween-worthy look! However, we’re here to tell you that chemical peels can be gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types, you can choose not to have down time and the results (hello glowing, radiant skin) are well worth it.

Here we’ll take you through the ins and outs of the chemical peel with a few of our top tips thrown in too.

What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel is a solution applied during an in-clinic treatment which works to remove dead skin cells. As a result of this highly effective exfoliation, the skin ramps up its production of new skin, replacing old, damaged skin cells with healthy new ones. Our skin pros love chemical peels, mainly as they’re so effective and relatively speedy – taking as little as 25 minutes, depending on the complexity of your chosen treatment. In the days following some peeling treatments, your skin might feel dry, and you might notice some flaking as the dead skin peels away (how satisfying). This peeling action occurs at cellular level revealing the smoother, younger, and brighter skin from below that top layer. After around 7 days all the dead skin will have shed, any redness will have calmed, and your skin will be glowing.

What are results like?

Chemical peels are a minimally invasive way to dramatically improve the appearance of skin; helping to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They also work to improve the appearance of discolouration, uneven skin tone and sun damage because the peel action removes damaged, dead skin. If you’re looking for smoother skin, a chemical peel could be your holy grail as the peel also targets rough dry skin, along with scars and general lumps and bumps, meaning skin looks younger and plumper after around 7 days.

Do chemical peels hurt?

Despite the slightly scary name, AlumierMD peels do not hurt, you might experience some tingling at the most. AlumierMD skin pros recommend chemical peels regularly, even to those with sensitive skin because they are a quick and easy route to glowing results.

Can anyone have a chemical peel?

Sounds amazing, sign me up – right? Well yes, chemical peels are suitable for most skin types. You’ll need to connect with a clinic near you. You’ll enjoy a personalised skincare plan alongside your in-clinic treatments like the chemical peel.

How can I prepare for my chemical peel?

Your skin pro will give you detailed information that’s perfectly tailored to you and the chemical peel that’s right for you. However, lifestyle factors can improve outcomes of all in-clinic procedures. Here at AlumierMD, we’ve been focusing on the pillars of wellness recently, providing information through our blog series about the lifestyle factors which can contribute to happier, healthier skin. For example, sleep is key to our general health, and ensuring you are well rested before (and indeed after) your chemical peel will aid recovery. We have lots more information on sleep and feeling well rested in our blog. Staying hydrated from the inside out by drinking plenty of water is another great tip that will help your body to work more efficiently and help with healing, we’ve got the lowdown on hydration here.

How can I care for my skin after my chemical peel?

Your skin pro will give you an aftercare kit of skincare miniatures that includes SensiCalm, a creamy cleanser to gently cleanse that post-peel dry skin. Recovery Balm which is perfect for soothing and hydrating, and Sheer Hydration SPF 40, our broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays following your treatment. It might be tempting to pick at flaky skin, but just let it naturally fall away when it is ready, picking might make it sore or lead to scarring. Avoid at home exfoliants like scrubs and/or acids for at least 5 days post-peel to let the new skin settle. We’re sure you wouldn’t dream of skipping your daily SPF anyway, but after a peel it’s imperative as skin will be more sensitive to the sun’s rays.

Ready to book your peel? Find your skin pro here and get ready to enjoy all the compliments!