A chemical peel uses a solution of acids to remove layers of skin so that new, smoother skin can grow. During a superficial or “lunchtime” peel, your skin is cleansed and a weak solution (often containing glycolic acid) is brushed on for a few minutes before being neutralised; you may feel a warm, tingling or stinging sensation【792668422514491†L321-L331】. For medium and deep peels, stronger agents such as trichloroacetic acid or phenol are applied and sedation or pain relief may be necessary because the solution penetrates deeper into the dermis; recovery times are longer【792668422514491†L321-L331】【792668422514491†L340-L343】. Only trained practitioners should perform chemical peels in a clinical setting.
Before treatment, your face is cleansed and your eyes and hairline protected. The practitioner carefully applies the chemical solution and monitors your skin’s reaction. The solution is neutralised or washed off after the appropriate time, and soothing ointments are applied. After a superficial peel, skin may feel tight and look red, similar to a mild sunburn, and flaking usually begins after two or three days. Medium and deep peels cause more redness and swelling; new skin forms over one to two weeks.
Chemical peels are used to treat fine lines, sun‑damage, acne scarring and uneven pigmentation【792668422514491†L321-L331】. People with darker skin need a cautious approach because deeper peels can cause hyper- or hypopigmentation. You should avoid peels if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have taken isotretinoin in the past six months, have a tendency to form keloid scars or have active infections or skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis【792668422514491†L359-L368】. UK legislation also prohibits cosmetic skin peels for anyone under 18 years old【72323824701480†L105-L113】.
Non‑surgical cosmetic treatments such as chemical peels currently have no mandatory training requirements in England; the Health and Care Act 2022 will introduce a licensing scheme that categorises procedures by risk and requires practitioners to obtain a licence【126037729884351†L115-L140】. When choosing a provider, look for clinicians registered with voluntary schemes such as the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) or Save Face. At Hello Skin Clinic, treatments are carried out by experienced practitioners in a safe environment and halal‑friendly protocols and female practitioners are available on request.
Proper aftercare is essential. Avoid hot baths, saunas, sunbeds, swimming and strenuous exercise for 72 hours; don’t rub or pick at peeling skin, and don’t use exfoliants or products containing alpha‑hydroxy acids, retinol or glycolic acid for at least a week【504385586194510†L7-L43】. Moisturise two to three times per day and protect your skin with broad‑spectrum SPF 30 or higher【504385586194510†L35-L43】. Avoid make‑up for 24 hours, and postpone hair removal treatments and other facial procedures for two weeks【504385586194510†L7-L43】. Contact your practitioner if you experience signs of infection such as increasing redness, warmth, pus or fever.
Your first chemical peel should be an informed decision. Understanding the different peel depths, potential sensations and the importance of aftercare helps you set realistic expectations and minimise risks. If you have any concerns or underlying conditions, consult our team at Hello Skin Clinic for personalised advice.