Chemical Peels, questions answered

A chemical peel is a treatment in which a gentle acidic solution is applied to your skin to loosen and lift away the outermost layer of dead, tired cells. As that surface sheds, it reveals the fresher, smoother skin beneath and encourages your skin to renew itself and produce more collagen. We use superficial (light) peels, which work on the upper layer for a brighter result with minimal downtime.

Chemical peels can work wonders. The treatment removes the top layer of dead skin, leaving you with baby-smooth skin while reducing dullness, hyperpigmentation, and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They can also help to calm and reduce acne.

Peels are wonderfully versatile. They can help with dullness and uneven tone, fine lines and early signs of ageing, sun damage and pigmentation such as age spots, congested or acne-prone skin, mild acne scarring, enlarged pores, and rough or uneven texture. During your consultation we'll match the peel to the concerns that matter most to you.

Superficial peels are suitable for most skin types and tones. If you have a deeper skin tone, there is a small risk of temporary changes in pigmentation, so we take extra care to choose the right peel and strength for you. This is exactly what your consultation is for — so we can tailor the treatment safely to your skin.

A peel may not be right if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, have an active cold sore or skin infection in the area, have very sensitive or broken skin, or have recently used certain strong skincare such as retinoids. If you have a history of cold sores or unusual scarring, do let us know. We always check your medical history beforehand so the treatment is safe for you.

A superficial peel is very comfortable. Most people feel a mild tingling or warmth as the solution is applied, which usually settles within a few minutes. The treatment itself is quick — often completed in under an hour — and there's no need for anaesthetic with the light peels we use.

In the days before your peel, avoid sun exposure, sunbeds, waxing, and strong exfoliating products such as retinoids and scrubs. Come to your appointment with clean, product-free skin where possible. We'll talk you through everything at your consultation and let you know if there's anything specific to pause beforehand.

Yes! There can be significant improvement after just one treatment — in your skin's texture, appearance, and tone. A peel acts as an exfoliant, removing the dead surface layer to reveal the fresh, smooth skin beneath.

We think so. You won't know whether a treatment is right for you until you try it. Peels address hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, and acne — leaving you with a youthful glow. We use superficial peels, the safest option.

Peels are generally done once a month, with results lasting from a month to several. The best approach is to bring your skin to the condition you'd like, then maintain it with a peel roughly every six months. The type of peel matters too — we offer superficial peels, which carry less risk than deeper ones.

It depends on your skin and your goals. Many people enjoy a noticeable glow after a single peel, but for concerns like pigmentation or acne, a course of treatments spaced a few weeks apart usually gives the best results. We'll recommend a plan that suits your skin at your consultation.

Everyone's skin is different. For some, recovery takes a few days; for those with more sensitive skin it can take up to 14 days. It's normal to experience some peeling, dryness, and redness afterwards. Wearing sunscreen — ideally SPF 50 — is essential following your treatment.

Keep things gentle. Cleanse softly, moisturise often, and wear a high SPF (ideally SPF 50) every single day. Let any flaking skin shed naturally — resist the urge to pick or peel it, as this can cause marks. Avoid sun exposure, sunbeds, heavy sweating, and strong active skincare for a few days while your skin settles.

As with any treatment, there are side effects. The most common are redness, dryness, and a mild stinging sensation — these are usually temporary and settle as your skin recovers.