Aesthetics

Skin Peels

A professional skin peel uses a carefully chosen solution to remove the outer layer of dull, older skin and encourage renewal, helping to improve fine lines, sun damage, uneven tone and a sallow complexion.

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Background

Understanding Skin Peels

01
Background

How Did Skin Peels Develop?

People have used natural acids to improve the skin for thousands of years, from sour milk (which contains lactic acid) to fruit and wine. Modern chemical peeling was developed by dermatologists during the twentieth century, using agents such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid and trichloroacetic acid (TCA) at controlled strengths and depths^[1]^[2].
Today, peels are grouped by how deeply they act: superficial, medium or deep. Superficial and light-medium peels are among the most commonly performed non-invasive cosmetic procedures, because they can refresh the skin with relatively little downtime^[1].
Ancientuse of natural acids such as sour milk
20th centurycontrolled dermatological peeling agents
Depthsuperficial, medium or deep peels
Tailoredthe peel is chosen to suit your skin
Figure 1. How chemical peels developed into a modern skin treatment.
02
Modern Scientific Perspective

How Do Skin Peels Work?

A peel applies an acid solution that loosens and removes the outer layers of skin to a controlled depth. As the skin repairs itself, it is replaced with fresher-looking skin^[1].
Peel solution
controlled exfoliation
ExfoliationOld, dull surface cells are removed, which can brighten the complexion.
Cell renewalThe skin responds by producing new cells more quickly.
CollagenDeeper-acting peels are associated with collagen remodelling, which may soften fine lines.
Figure 2. How chemical peels are thought to renew the skin^[1]^[2].
Reviews describe chemical peels as an effective option for photodamage, pigmentation and acne-related concerns when the right agent and technique are used for the right skin^[1]^[2]. A 2026 systematic review comparing lasers and chemical peels found both improved skin rejuvenation outcomes, with similar overall effectiveness for photoageing; peels may suit people who want minimal downtime^[3]. Results vary, and more than one treatment is often needed. Common side effects include redness, stinging, dryness and flaking; less commonly, pigment changes (especially in darker skin), cold-sore flare-ups or, rarely, scarring can occur.

References

Soleymani T, Lanoue J, Rahman Z. A practical approach to chemical peels: a review of fundamentals and step-by-step algorithmic protocol for treatment. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2018;11(8):21–28. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30214663/
Rendon MI, Berson DS, Cohen JL, Roberts WE, Starker I, Wang B. Evidence and considerations in the application of chemical peels in skin disorders and aesthetic resurfacing. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2010;3(7):32–43. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20725555/
Karanasios G, Wong ZY, Limbu S, Faderani R, Kanapathy M, Mosahebi A. Comparative efficacy and safety of laser versus chemical skin peeling in skin rejuvenation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2026;158(2):263–272. doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000012719

Your session

What you need to know

1Before your treatment

What to Prepare
14 days before:
- Avoid direct sun exposure without protection.
- No waxing or depilatory creams.
- Avoid other laser and skin treatments.
7 days before:
- Avoid exfoliators, acids and any retinol or vitamin A-based products.
24 hours before:
- Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water (at least 2 litres).
Please tell us if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a history of cold sores, have sensitive skin or eczema in the area, have used isotretinoin recently, or are allergic to aspirin (some peels contain salicylic acid). Your practitioner will choose a peel suitable for your skin.
2During your treatment

What to Expect
- Your skin is cleansed and prepared.
- The peel solution is applied evenly to the skin and left on for a set time.
- You may feel tingling, warmth or stinging, which usually eases quickly. Let your practitioner know how it feels.
- The peel is then neutralised or removed, and a soothing product and SPF are applied.
3After your treatment

Aftercare
- Avoid sun exposure for 2 weeks after your treatment.
- Avoid touching the skin.
- Avoid strong acidic products and exfoliators for at least 5 days.
- No facial hair removal for at least 14 days.
- Avoid heat, hot water and vigorous activity for 12 hours, as this may reactivate the treatment and cause a reaction.
- Use a gentle cleanser, serum, moisturiser and SPF 50 daily.
Redness, tightness and light flaking are common for several days. Do not pick or peel flaking skin. Contact us if you notice blistering, crusting or anything that concerns you.

Who can benefit

Who skin peels are for

Skin peels are often chosen by people who want brighter, smoother-looking skin. These are some of the most common reasons our patients ask about them.

Fine lines

Early fine lines, which may look softer as the skin renews.

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Sun damage

Signs of photodamage such as roughness and uneven tone.

Sun spots and pigmentation

Sun spots and uneven pigmentation, which may fade gradually over a course of peels.

Dull, sallow complexion

Skin that looks tired or lacks radiance.

Uneven texture

Rough skin texture, which many patients choose a peel to smooth.

Blemish-prone skin

Congested skin and blemishes, where certain peels are often used.

Early signs of ageing

People who want to counter early signs of ageing as part of a regular skincare routine.

Your practitioner will assess whether a skin peel is right for you at your consultation. Results vary and are not guaranteed.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Will my skin visibly peel?

It depends on the strength of the peel. Lighter peels may cause only mild flaking, while stronger peels can cause more noticeable peeling for several days.

Does a peel hurt?

Most people feel tingling, warmth or stinging while the solution is on the skin. This usually eases once the peel is neutralised or removed.

How many peels will I need?

A course of peels spaced a few weeks apart is often recommended. Your practitioner will suggest a plan based on your skin and goals.

Are there any side effects?

Redness, stinging, dryness and flaking are common. Less commonly, pigmentation changes, cold-sore flare-ups or irritation can occur. Strict sun protection afterwards helps reduce the risk of pigmentation problems.

Can I wear make-up afterwards?

It is best to keep the skin as clean and product-free as possible for a short time after treatment. Your practitioner will advise you on when to reintroduce make-up and your usual skincare.

Still have a question? Ask our practitioners.