Chemical Peels
The chemical peels used at Northern Skin Studio range in their concentration and ingredients.
Some peels are from Rationale Skin Care and are considered "non-prescription" strength. The remaining peels are prescription strength have been formulated to specific concentrations and require a medical assessment prior to the procedure. Acne, sun damage, pigmentation, wrinkles and mild scarring can be treated with chemical peels and they are safe on most skin types.
After the peel you can expect to have: smoother skin, less pigmentation, fewer blackheads and a long-term increase in skin tone.
What are chemical peels?
A chemical peel is the application of a chemical solution to the skin which is designed to correct a variety of problems including sun damage, mild scarring, removal of fine wrinkles and improvement in irregular pigmentation.
A facial chemical peel works like a snake shedding its skin. It causes the even, controlled shedding of several layers of damaged skin cells to leave a new fresh layer of skin which has a more even texture and colour.
Collagen stimulating Glycolic Peels- superficial depth
These peeling agent is the most commonly used chemical peel and is frequently referred to as the ‘lunch time peel’. Side effects are uncommon, recovery is quick (within an hour or two), and the procedure is affordable.
Ideal for – pigmentation, mild acne scarring, mild photodamage, uneven skin tone and collagen stimulation.
Duration: 25 minutes. Frequency: 3 to 6 times, spaced every two-four weeks apart. Cost is $120 or $50 when added to another facial treatment. (6th free with series of 5) Downtime is 1-2 hours.
refining Salicylic Acid Peels- superficial depth
Salicylic acid peels have an anti-inflammatory component which is ideal for acne treatments. Recovery is seen within a few hours, and results can be seen within 2-3 days of the peel.
Ideal for – oily and clogged skin, acne, especially blackheads/ whiteheads, scaling skin (psoriasis, sun damage)
Duration: 25 minutes. Frequency: 3 to 6 times, spaced every two-four weeks apart. Cost is $120 or $50 when added to another facial treatment. (6th free with series of 5) Downtime is 12-36 hours.
Pigment Peel - medium depth
This traditional peel is prescription only and a medical assessment is required prior to the procedure. This peel is usually performed as a one off peel and results in obvious skin peeling for up to 10 days. It is safe enough to use on all skin types and is a great exfoliation for pigmentation including melisma.
Duration 25-30 min. Frequency 1-2 per year. Cost $350
What to expect
Skin cleansed
Skin is then prepped with a peel prep.
Application of peel agent, general 3-10 min application time- mild stinging is to be expected.
Termination of the peel with a neutralization agent.
Completion of the peel with application of sunscreen and serums.
What is involved in a chemical peel?
Superficial peels are usually well tolerated without the need for any pain medication. Discomfort may be decreased by using a fan during the peel or by taking two aspirin an hour beforehand.
Initially the skin is cleaned with a liquid soap and then further prepared with alcohol or acetone to remove all oils and grease from the skin surface. Make-up should not be worn on the day of a chemical peel.
The chemical solution is applied in either a single layer or sometimes several layers. Immediately after application, a stinging sensation may be experienced, which subsides within 5 to10 minutes. The solution stays on the skin for a variable period of time, as determined by the practitioner, after which it is removed either with water or a neutraliser. It can be removed earlier if excessive discomfort is experienced.
What happens after a chemical peel?
Recovery time after a peel will depend on its depth.
In the first few days after most peels, the skin turns darker, will feel somewhat tight and then peels or flakes to leave a new fresh layer of skin. There are no scabs, bandages or bleeding.
The recovery period and side-effects of a superficial peel is much less than with a medium-depth peel. It usually takes 3 days after a superficial peel for the skin to return to normal. It usually takes up to 7 to 10 days after a medium-depth peel for the skin to settle.
How many treatments are needed?
Superficial peels are typically performed between 3 to 6 times, spaced every two weeks or so apart.
Most people are pleased with the result from a single medium-depth peel.
How much time off work is needed after a chemical peel?
Superficial peels may warrant a day or two off work, although many people are able to cover up with make-up and continue working the next day.
A medium-depth chemical peel may require one week for the skin to heal and it may be beneficial to arrange time off work. At this time the face will be somewhat reddened with an appearance like sunburn but otherwise should appear unaffected. The redness can be camouflaged by a tinted moisturiser or make-up.