An acid peel – more commonly known as a chemical peel – is a facial rejuvenation treatment where a chemical solution is placed on the skin, causing the top layer to blister and peel off, revealing the smoother, younger-looking skin beneath.
Quick guide
- Anaesthetic: None to general anaesthetic, depending on the depth of peel
- Time of intervention: from 30 – 90 minutes, depending on depth of peel
- Time in hospital: day procedure
- Problems: irritation, pigmentation problems, scarring
- Swelling: none to 1 week
- Recuperation: up to 1 week
- Final result: 7-10 days
Am I suitable for a chemical peel?
There are lots of different strengths of acid peel available, so there should be one that is suitable for your skin type. Chemical peels are particularly effective in dealing with acne scarring, or to produce a glowing complexion for a special occasion.
What can I expect during my acid peel?
The peels we offer include alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) and beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) peels; Jessner’s Peel, retinoic acid peels, trichloroacetic peels and phenol peels. Dr Amar will discuss the differences between these peels and ascertain which would be best for your skin type at your London chemical peel consultation.
The lighter, more superficial peels are a minor cosmetic treatment, which don’t need any downtime or special arrangements, but the deeper peels can involve sedation, local or even general anaesthesia.
When you arrive for your London acid peel procedure, your face will be thoroughly cleansed to remove any make-up and oil from the surface. The peel will then be applied to the skin in a thin layer and left for a few minutes.
The chemical peel itself will sting – how much depends on which strength of peel you are using, whether you have taken painkillers beforehand and your personal pain threshold.
Once the peel has reached the correct depth, the chemical will be neutralised and the stinging sensation will lessen.
Are there any possible complications associated with acid peels?
There are some complications possible from chemical peels, including skin irritation, uneven pigmentation and – very rarely – permanent scarring. Dr Roger Amar will discuss all the possible complications with you at your London chemical peel consultation, to ensure that you are fully aware of all the risks and benefits of the procedure before going ahead with your treatment.
You will have some facial redness after even the lightest peel, but this is similar to sunburn and should fade within 48 hours – most people find they are able to cover the redness with make-up (this can be applied a few hours after the procedure) and can go about their day as usual.
Deeper peels require more downtime – a moderate depth acid peel can result in intense facial redness and swelling, which can take about a week to go down. Most patients undergoing a deeper peel take about a week off work, as the peeling effect can be more pronounced.
Very high factor sun block should be worn after even the most superficial acid peel treatment, and after a moderate depth peel you need to wear total sun block long term.
For more information on chemical peels or any of the cosmetic procedures we offer at the London FAMI Clinic, call 0800 612 7475 to book a consultation.