Chemical Peels
What is a Chemical Peel?
Chemical peeling involves the careful application of a chemical exfoliant to the epidermis skin specifically for the removal of superficial lesion and blemishes and thus to improve the texture of the skin. Various acids and basic chemical agents can be used for this purpose. The nature of the compound, the concentration of the chemical and the length of time it is in skin contact together determine the level of skin penetration and the level of peeling. At the Cambridge Cosmetic Clinic we generally only use and recommend light and medium peeling procedures as these are safe, and require no downtime. Usually a series of peels will be recommended to achieve a clinically pleasing result. We use salicylic acid, glycolic acid and trichloracetic acid (TCA) peels as well as other acid depending on our patients needs.
What are AHA Acids?
Alpha hydroxy acids (commonly referred to as Glycolic Acid) are found in plants and food such as citrus fruits, apples, grapes, sugar cane and sour milk. The acid breaks the intracellular bonds of the epidermis and accelerates the sloughing of the superficial dead skin cells of the epidermis. Lactic acid and glycolic acids are the two most common AHA acids found in skin care products. This peel is considered a light peel and patients will require multiple treatments to see results.
What is Trichloracetic Acid?
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can be used in many concentrations, but it is most commonly used for medium-depth peeling. TCA is a stronger chemical than the AHA acids. TCA acid will penetrate the skin much faster and deeper producing quicker and more dramatic results. Fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems are commonly treated with TCA. Clients may require more than one peel to achieve the desired results.
Commonly asked questions about Chemical Peels:
Does it hurt?
AHA and TCA peels does provide some patient discomfort. You will experience a slight stinging to the skin when the chemical is applied to your skin. Your skin is exposed to the chemical for approximately 2-3 minutes.
Do I need to take time off work to have a treatment?
It is not necessary to take time off work but your skin may look a little rosy right after the treatment.
Who can benefit from this treatment?
Most people who have sun damage such as multiple solar keratosis, pigmentation abnormalities, certain types of acne, and fine wrinkling might benefit from a chemical peel. Peels are often used to treat fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth. Wrinkles caused by sun damage, aging, and hereditary factors can often be reduced with this procedure.
What is the procedure like?
After cleansing the skin to remove oils, the peeling agent is carefully applied. Within minutes, there is a very warm sensation that feels like sunburn. This lasts for a few minutes and is rapidly relieved by the application of cool compresses. In rare instances, there may be some swelling, especially around the eyes for the first two days, but discomfort is minimal. By the third or fourth day, the skin has a tight feeling and will begin to exfoliate. Your new skin will be smoother and more toned. The process usually takes at least 5-7 days
Microdermabrasion is a less invasive procedure and post treatment response is associated with a rosy ness to the skin and a slightly stimulating sensation which may last for a few hours.
How much improvement will I have?
The amount of improvement is individual and depends on the initial condition of the patient's skin. Maximum improvement of damaged skin and wrinkling ranges from 50%-85% and, although 100% percent improvement is not possible, most patients view the results as dramatic.
How Much Does the Treatment Cost?
The price of chemical peels range from £70-£600. The price of the treatment will depend on the type of chemical peel that is recommended
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