Unlock the Science Behind Chemical Peels: Turn Back the Years
Written by Kerry Payne, Advanced Aesthetician
Kerry Payne brings over 20 years of expertise in advanced skin treatments, including microneedling, laser therapies, HIFU, IPL treatments, and medical-grade chemical peels. Her patient-focused, evidence-based approach has helped countless clients achieve healthy, glowing skin.
What Are Chemical Peels?
A chemical peel is a medical-grade skin treatment designed to exfoliate the skin, remove damaged cells, and stimulate renewal. Using a carefully formulated blend of acids, chemical peels treat a variety of skin concerns, including acne, pigmentation, and fine lines, while improving skin texture and tone.
Chemical peels vary in intensity, from superficial to deep treatments. Superficial peels use mild acids like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) to target the outermost layer of skin. Medium and deep peels penetrate further, offering more dramatic results but requiring longer recovery.
How Do Chemical Peels Work?
The efficacy of chemical peels lies in their ability to trigger the skin’s natural renewal processes. Here’s how they work:
Exfoliation and Removal of Damaged Cells:
Active ingredients such as AHAs, beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), and trichloroacetic acid (TCA) break down the bonds between skin cells. This allows the outermost layers of skin to peel away, revealing fresher, healthier skin beneath.
Cellular Renewal:
The removal of dead skin cells stimulates fibroblasts—cells in the dermis responsible for producing collagen and elastin. Collagen improves skin firmness, while elastin enhances elasticity. Increased production of these proteins reduces fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Improved Texture and Tone:
By exfoliating uneven layers, chemical peels address hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and sun damage. Studies have shown that medium-depth peels reduce hyperpigmentation by up to 47% after three sessions (Journal of Dermatologic Surgery, 2020).
Oil Regulation:
Peels also help balance oil production, making them particularly effective for oily or acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid-based peels, for example, penetrate oil-filled pores, unclogging them and reducing inflammation.
What Do Chemical Peels Treat?
Chemical peels are versatile, addressing a range of skin concerns:
1. Acne and Acne Scarring
Chemical peels unclog pores, reduce breakouts, and stimulate collagen to repair acne scars. Salicylic acid is particularly effective, with studies reporting a 50% reduction in acne lesions after six treatments (Cutis, 2017).
2. Fine Lines and Wrinkles
By promoting collagen production, peels reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in smoother, firmer skin.
3. Hyperpigmentation
Uneven skin tone caused by sun damage or melasma can be improved with chemical peels. TCA and glycolic acid peels have been clinically proven to lighten hyperpigmentation significantly.
4. Congested and Oily Skin
Peels regulate sebum production and unclog pores, making them ideal for oily or congested skin types.
5. Full-Body Treatments
While chemical peels are most commonly performed on the face, they’re also effective for rejuvenating the neck, décolletage, hands, and other areas of the body, including the back and shoulders.
Types of Chemical Peels at Omniya Clinic
At Omniya Clinic, we offer a range of peels tailored to individual skin needs:
1. PCA Skin Peel
A gentle yet effective treatment for:
- Acne and acne scars
- Hyperpigmentation
- Fine lines and wrinkles
The PCA Skin Peel combines AHAs and BHAs to exfoliate, hydrate, and nourish the skin, leaving it balanced and refreshed.
2. Obagi Radiance Peel
This medium-depth peel is ideal for acne-prone or congested skin. Benefits of the Obagi Radiance Peel include:
- Reducing active acne and scars
- Improving skin texture and tone
- Minimising pore size
3. The Perfect Peel
The Perfect Peel is a powerful blend of acids and glutathione, this peel addresses:
- Sun damage and pigmentation
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Uneven skin texture
The Perfect Peel enhances skin brightness while stimulating collagen production, delivering long-lasting results.
Are Chemical Peels Right for Sensitive Skin?
Contrary to popular belief, chemical peels are suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. Gentle formulations like PCA Skin Peel are designed to exfoliate without causing excessive irritation, making them ideal for those with reactive or delicate skin.
The Science of Safety and Comfort
While the term “chemical peel” might sound intimidating, modern formulations are designed with comfort in mind. You may experience a mild tingling or stinging sensation during the treatment, but this is temporary and manageable. Advanced cooling technologies, such as fans or cold compresses, are often used to enhance client comfort.
Why Winter Is the Best Time for Chemical Peels
Winter is an optimal season for chemical peels due to reduced UV exposure. Newly treated skin is more sensitive to sunlight, so shorter days and lower UV levels minimise the risk of pigmentation changes post-treatment.
Additionally, winter’s colder weather often exacerbates dryness and dullness, making a peel the perfect solution for refreshing your skin.
What to Expect During and After a Peel
- During Treatment: The peel solution is applied, left on for a few minutes, and then neutralised.
- After Treatment: You may experience mild redness or flaking as your skin sheds its damaged outer layers.
- Recovery: Most peels require little to no downtime. Using a high-SPF sunscreen and moisturiser will help protect and hydrate your skin during the healing process.
Why Choose Omniya Clinic for Chemical Peels?
At Omniya Clinic, we combine cutting-edge technology with personalised care to deliver exceptional results. Our team of experienced practitioners, led by Kerry Payne, ensures that every treatment is tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Client Success Stories
"The Obagi Radiance Peel has transformed my skin. My acne scars have faded, and my complexion has never looked better!" – Omniya Client
Book Your Consultation Today
Ready to revitalise your skin? Whether you’re dealing with acne scars, wrinkles, or pigmentation, chemical peels offer scientifically proven results.
Contact us today or call 020 7584 4777 to book your consultation.
Related Reading
Chemical peels aren’t just a treatment—they’re an investment in your skin’s health and beauty. With the right care, you can achieve radiant, youthful-looking skin at any age.
