Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a highly effective way to treat certain skin conditions and also to improve ageing skin. The procedures are best performed by a genuine expert - top level advice and expertise is provided by Dr Bashir, who is highly experienced in chemical peeling.
What is a chemical peel?
A chemical peel is an attempt to remove the outer layers of skin with an acid, in a controlled manner. The aim to is to allow new skin to form, replacing the old skin which has been peeled off.
Chemical peels are classified in terms of the depth of peel:
- Superficial
- Medium
- Deep
A variety of acids can be used to achieve the peeling effect, such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, tricholoroacetic acid and salicylic acid. There are many brand names on the market can be confusing - one should not be distracted by the brand name, but focus on the ingredients in the product.
Is chemical peeling safe?
Chemical peeling is safe in the correct hands: the correct peel must be used on the correct type of skin, in the correct manner. A test peel is performed in almost all circumstances, before you can be considered for a full treatment.
What conditions can be treated by peeling?
We have expertise in treating a variety of different skin conditions with chemical peels. Each patient and condition needs to be treated on it's own merit. The treatment options will be discussed with you and you will have treatment tailored to suit your needs
Commonly treated conditions include:
- Acne and acne scars
- Ageing
- Melasma
- Pigmented blemishes
- Scars
- Solar keratoses
- Seborrhoeic keratoses
- Xanthelasma
Which acids are suitable for chemical peels?
There are several acids which have been widely used for aesthetic and medical purposes. In some commercial clinics these may be given brand names, but as specialist dermatologists, we refer to these by their chemical, pharmacological names:
- trichcloroacetic acid (TCA)
- glycolic acid
- salicylic acid
- other alpha-hydroxy acids and beta-hydroxy acids
Why should I see a specialist for a chemical peel?
Chemical peels require an advanced degree of experience and skill to achieve effective results whilst minimizing the risks to the patient. It is important to realise that high quality results are achieved by peeling deeper into the skin. However, the deeper the peel, the greater the risk of complications. Only a specialist dermatologist with particular expertise in peeling can provide the control required to execute the peel well and have the skill to look after the patient in the days and weeks after a peel.