Chemical Peel

How it works

A chemical solution is applied to the skin to loosen the outer layers so they shed over the following days. Light peels, such as those using salicylic or glycolic acid, work at the surface and are often used for oil, clogged pores and dull texture. Medium-depth peels reach further and involve more visible peeling and a longer recovery. The doctor chooses the acid and contact time based on skin type, history and goals.

Who it may suit

• People with clogged pores, rough texture or a dull complexion.
• Those with mild uneven tone who want a staged, lower-intensity option.
• Anyone who prefers a short visit with little or no recovery for light peels.

The treatment day

1. Skin check. The doctor looks at skin type, recent treatments, medicines and any active irritation or cold sores.
2. Cleansing and protection. The skin is cleansed and sensitive areas such as the corners of the nose, eyes and lips are protected.
3. Application. The peel solution is applied for a timed period, then neutralized or removed depending on the type.
4. Soothing and sunscreen. A calming product and sunscreen are applied, and the interval to the next session is set.

Aftercare

• Use sunscreen every day and avoid direct sun while the skin is shedding.
• Do not pick or pull flaking skin; let it come off by itself.
• Use only gentle cleanser and moisturizer until the doctor says otherwise.
• Pause retinoids and exfoliating products for the period advised.
• Avoid waxing or hair removal on the treated area for a few days.

Things to know first

• Stinging, redness, dryness and peeling are expected; deeper peels can cause crusting or prolonged redness.
• Darker skin tones have a higher chance of post-inflammatory darkening, so peel strength must be chosen carefully.
• Not suitable over active infections, open wounds or sunburn, and the doctor may postpone it during pregnancy.
• Recent isotretinoin use is a reason to delay a peel.
• Cold sore history may require preventive medicine.

What the price of a chemical peel depends on

The first variable is the peel itself. A light salicylic or glycolic acid peel and a medium-depth peel are different products with different preparation, supervision and recovery, so they are rarely priced alike. A quote should name the agent and, where possible, its strength.

The second is the number of sessions. Light peels are commonly repeated every two to four weeks, so the real cost is a series. Packages usually lower the per-session figure but fix you to a schedule, so ask what happens if the doctor changes the plan after the first session.

Also check whether the quote is for the full face or a smaller zone, whether a soothing mask, sunscreen or home products are included, and whether VAT is shown separately. Written down line by line, these differences explain most of the gaps between quotes.