Chemical Peel
A chemical peel is a medical aesthetic treatment in which acid solutions applied to the skin remove its upper layers in a controlled way, helping to improve pigmentation, acne marks, fine lines and uneven texture.
Overview
Sun damage, acne, hormonal changes and ageing can cause pigmentation, uneven tone, rough texture and fine lines.
In a chemical peel, an acid solution chosen for your skin’s needs is applied. As the upper layers renew, the aim is smoother, brighter skin with a more even tone.
The depth of the peel and the number of sessions depend on your skin type and the problem being treated.
- A solution chosen for your skin type and concern
- Treatment for pigmentation, acne and skin texture
- The number of sessions planned according to depth
- Detailed aftercare advice
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel stimulates renewal by removing the surface layers of the skin in a controlled way. The type and strength of the solution determine how deep the effect reaches.
Types of peel
- Superficial peel: renews the top layer of the skin with mild acids such as glycolic, lactic, mandelic or salicylic acid; recovery is short
- Medium-depth peel: acts more deeply with solutions such as trichloroacetic acid (TCA); there is a peeling phase of a few days
- Combination peels: use several active ingredients together to target pigmentation or acne
What Problems Can a Chemical Peel Treat?
- Sun spots, melasma and uneven tone
- Active acne and post-acne marks
- Enlarged pores and rough skin texture
- Fine lines and dull-looking skin
Who Is a Chemical Peel Suitable For?
A chemical peel is suitable for people with pigmentation, acne, acne marks or texture problems who are able to follow sun protection advice after treatment. In darker skin, the solution and depth are chosen with particular care to reduce the risk of pigment changes.
It is not performed during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or where there is an active infection, open wound or active cold sore in the area. Recent use of isotretinoin, recent intense sun exposure and a history of recurrent cold sores are assessed separately at the consultation.
How Is a Chemical Peel Performed?
The skin is cleansed and degreased. The chosen solution is applied evenly and left for a set time, during which you may feel mild burning or tingling. The solution is then neutralised or removed and soothing products are applied.
The treatment usually takes 20–30 minutes. For superficial peels, several sessions a few weeks apart are usually planned for the best result.
Aftercare Following a Chemical Peel
After the treatment there may be redness, tightness and, depending on the depth of the peel, flaking or peeling for a few days.
- A high-factor sunscreen is used every day and direct sun is avoided
- Peeling skin is not pulled off; it is left to come away on its own
- Acids, retinol and irritating products are paused for as long as your physician advises
- The skin is supported with moisturising and soothing products
Autumn and winter, when sunlight is less intense, are often preferred for peels, especially for treating pigmentation.
Possible Risks and Side Effects
- Redness, a burning sensation and temporary sensitivity
- Pigment changes, either darkening or lightening, especially if sun protection is not followed
- Triggering of cold sores in people with a history of them
- Rarely, infection or scarring
Factors That Affect the Cost of a Chemical Peel
The cost of a chemical peel is calculated individually, based on the plan agreed at the consultation. The main factors are:
- The type and depth of the peel
- The area treated
- The number of sessions planned
- Recommended aftercare products
The information on this page is for general guidance only; diagnosis and treatment plans are decided individually after a physician's examination.
Treatment Process
Consultation and Assessment
Your skin type, the problem to be treated and your sun exposure habits are assessed, and the type of peel and session plan are decided.
The Treatment
The skin is prepared, the chosen solution is applied and it is neutralised after the set time.
Recovery and Follow-up
Advice on sun protection and skincare is given, and your skin is monitored between sessions.
Who is it suitable for?
- People with pigmentation, acne or acne marks
- People who want to improve skin texture and radiance
- People who are able to follow sun protection advice after treatment
- People with realistic expectations who are able to follow the aftercare advice
Quick Facts
- Duration: 20–30 minutes
- Treatment Model: Several sessions a few weeks apart
- Recovery: From the same day to a few days, depending on depth
- Method: Controlled application of acid solutions
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my skin peel after a chemical peel?
It depends on the depth of the peel. With superficial peels there may be light flaking or none at all; with medium-depth peels, noticeable peeling lasting a few days is expected.
How many chemical peel sessions are needed?
For superficial peels, several sessions a few weeks apart are usually recommended. The number depends on your skin type and the problem being treated.
Can a chemical peel be done in summer?
Some light peels can also be done in summer with strict sun protection, but autumn and winter are preferred, especially for treating pigmentation and for deeper peels.
Can a chemical peel be used on every skin type?
With the right solution and depth, it can be used on many skin types. In darker skin, the choice is made with particular care to reduce the risk of pigment changes.
What does the cost of a chemical peel depend on?
It depends on the type and depth of the peel, the area treated and the number of sessions. The exact price is set after the consultation.