What can be treated with chemical peels?
- Ageing skin, fine lines and wrinkles
- Scars and redness may be improved
- Acne and blemishes
- Enlarged pores
- Uneven skin tone and texture
- Enlarged pores
- Superficial pigmentation and sun damage
What happens during a chemical peel appointment?
The ZO Stimulator Peel is a relaxing treatment and very comfortable. The skin may feel warm and tingly during some steps of the facial. The skin will be cleansed and exfoliated before a preparatory treatment product applied. The stimulator peel is then added to the skin which contains salicylic, lactic and citric acid. Once this is removed, the skin is cleaned again and a mask may be applied such as cooling aloe vera mask, a sulphur based acne mask or a brightening sheet mask. The treatment lasts 45-60 minutes.
How many chemical peels do I need?
Depending on the skin concerns being addressed, a course of 4-6 peels will be recommended for most people. Usually, a gap of 14 days between each peel is optimum when having a course of ZO stimulator peels. Maintenance will vary so to find out what is most suitable for you, a consultation is advised. Many patients choose to maintain their results with a peel every 4-6 weeks.
How do chemical peels work?
Chemical peels use different ingredients to treat the skin at various layers and exfoliate dead skin cells. The peel is applied for a set amount of time before it is removed and post peel products applied.
Who is suitable for chemical peels?
Most people are safe to have this treatment. You will not be able to have a stimulator peel if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have taken oral vitamin A (for example Roaccutane) in the past 6 months. For darker skin tones, a patch test is recommended prior to treatment.
Are chemical peels painful?
During your stimulator peel you will feel a slight tingling/heat sensation as the treatment begins. This usually subsides after a few minutes as the products are removed.
What should I do before a chemical peel treatment?
If possible, please avoid wearing makeup to your appointment.
Avoid skin, beauty and other aesthetic treatments for 2 weeks prior to skin peels.
It is important you wait 12 months after finishing taking Roaccutane (isotretinoin) before having chemical peels. You should wait 28 days after finishing a course of antibiotics before you have any chemical peels.
Do not undertake any invasive treatment for two weeks ahead of your appointment, including dental treatment, surgery or permanent makeup.
If you have a special event coming up, please ensure that you schedule your appointment well in advance. Please speak to your clinician to determine how far in advance is necessary to optimise results.
For some peels, we recommend preparing the skin prior to treatment. This will be discussed at your initial consultation.
Avoid skin irritants for 7 days before your peel (Vitamin A such as retinol/tretinoin, benzoyl peroxides, acids and Vitamin C/ascorbic acid) a few days before and after treatment.
Avoid all forms of tanning for 2 weeks prior to treatment (including spray tans and sun beds).
Avoid skin irritants for 3 days before your peel (Vitamin A such as retinol/tretinoin, benzoyl peroxides, acids and Vitamin C/ascorbic acid) a few days before and after treatment.
Avoid all forms of tanning for 2 weeks prior to treatment (including spray tans and sun beds).
What should I do after a chemical peel?
Your skin may be slightly red and dry for 4-10 days after a peel. To maximise results and reduce any reactions it is important to follow all aftercare advice. Avoid exposure to UV and getting excessively hot for 48 hours after treatment, for example strenuous exercise, drinking alcohol, hot weather, sun beds, saunas and steam rooms. This reduces the risk of infection and bruising.
Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB protection) sunscreen daily, ideally SPF50.
Don’t apply makeup or have a spray tan for 24 hours after treatment.
Do not use retinol, acids or other vitamin A products on the skin for 3-7 days, until the skin is no longer red, sensitive or peeling.
Avoid touching the treated areas for 24 hours. If you need to touch the site please wash your hands first.
Don’t have facial massages, facial electric stimulation, dermaroller, semi-permanent makeup, laser treatments, or microdermabrasion for 2 weeks after your treatment.
Is there any downtime after a stimulator peel?
This will depend on your skin and the treatment being provided. Generally, there is no downtime with the ZO stimulator peel and you will see instant results. Rarely, some people will experience mild redness, dryness and flaking of the skin for 4-7 days.