Chemical peels may sound dramatic, but they are a precisely controlled exfoliation process that removes the outermost layer of skin. This stimulates the skin’s natural healing process and boosts collagen production, resulting in a brighter, more radiant complexion. Chemical exfoliation has been used for over 3,500 years, with the Ancient Egyptians using lactic acid from milk and tartaric acid from grape skins—ingredients still found in many modern skincare products.

Dr Rachel Tunney explains that chemical peels are classified based on the depth of treatment:

Superficial Peels: These target the outermost skin layers with minimal redness and peeling. For best results, a course of three to four treatments is recommended.

Medium-Depth Peels: These penetrate deeper skin layers to address more significant concerns. Some mild redness and peeling may occur.

Deep Peels: Designed for intensive treatment, these reach the deeper skin layers to tackle challenging issues. Redness and peeling are expected but can deliver transformative results.

Chemical peels are highly effective for a variety of skin concerns, including:

• • Acne and acne scarring
  • Pigmentation issues such as age spots and melasma
  • Rough, dull, or uneven skin tone
  • Fine lines and wrinkles

Dr Tunney offers SkinCeuticals and Obagi Medical peels at Romsey Medical Practice, which are classified as superficial-depth treatments. These peels deliver noticeable results with minimal downtime, making them an excellent option for enhancing skin health and appearance without major disruption.

Discover how a tailored chemical peel treatment can rejuvenate your skin. Book a consultation with Dr Rachel Tunney today.

SKINCEUTICALS GEL PEEL GL

Superficial Glycolic and Lactic Acid Peel

The SkinCeuticals Gel Peel combines a high concentration of glycolic acid with lactic acid to gently exfoliate, boost hydration, and improve skin texture.

Ideal as an entry-level peel, it is suitable for addressing:

• • Sun damage and dull, uneven skin tone
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Rough skin texture
  • Acne-prone skin, preparing it for effective extractions.

This peel offers a gentle yet effective solution for smoother, brighter, and healthier-looking skin.

To achieve the best results, three to six treatments are recommended, spaced two to four weeks apart.

SKINCEUTICALS PIGMENT BALANCING PEEL

Superficial-Medium Glycolic Acid Peel

The Pigment Balancing Peel is a powerful treatment that combines exfoliating acids with brightening and anti-inflammatory ingredients for deeper skin penetration.

This advanced peel is ideal for addressing more persistent skin concerns, including:

• • Pigmentation issues, such as dark spots and uneven skin tone
  • Fine lines and wrinkles, reducing visible signs of ageing
  • Acne, helping to clear and renew the skin

By delivering intense exfoliation, this peel accelerates skin renewal, revealing a brighter, smoother, and more even complexion.

To achieve the best results, a course of four to six treatments is recommended with treatments spaced two to four weeks apart.

What skin concerns can chemical peels help with?

Chemical peels are most commonly used on the face but can also treat other areas such as the neck, décolletage, and hands, making them a versatile option for skin rejuvenation.

They are particularly effective for addressing:

• • Ageing skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles
  • Acne and acne scarring
  • Whiteheads and blackheads, help to clear clogged pores
  • Blotchy, flaking, dry, or oily skin
  • Pockmarks and small scars, improving skin texture
  • Sun damage and age spots
  • Large pores, minimising their appearance
  • Uneven skin tone and texture
  • Pigmentation issues, such as dark spots or melasma

However, chemical peels are unsuitable for very deep lines or scars, significant loss of volume, or wrinkles caused by muscle movement or sagging skin. Alternative treatments such as dermal fillers, anti-wrinkle injections, or skin-tightening therapies may be more effective for these concerns.

Book a consultation with Dr Rachel Tunney at Romsey Medical Practice to explore how chemical peels can address your skin concerns and achieve a healthier, more radiant complexion.

Do chemical peels hurt?

Superficial chemical peels are typically pain-free, though some individuals may experience a mild stinging or tingling sensation during application. If you have sensitive skin, you might feel slight discomfort or a burning sensation, particularly with superficial or mid-depth peels.

At Romsey Medical Practice, Dr Rachel Tunney ensures your comfort throughout the procedure. She will closely monitor your skin’s response and promptly remove the peel solution if it becomes uncomfortable. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities, so you can feel confident receiving personalised care tailored to your needs.

When will I see the benefit of my chemical peel treatment?

The immediate benefits of a chemical peel include smoother, brighter skin with improved texture. After superficial peels, results are often visible right away. For medium-depth peels, your skin may appear slightly pink or blotchy initially, but this typically subsides within a few hours to a day.

In the days following your peel, skin texture continues to improve, and you may notice mild dryness or flaking, particularly around areas like the corners of the nose and mouth, which is a normal part of the skin renewal process. However, the peels used by Dr Tunney at Romsey Medical Practice are very unlikely to cause severe redness and peeling! 

For concerns such as pigmentation, age spots, fine lines, and wrinkles, a course of treatments is recommended for optimal results, as these issues take time to address effectively.

Am I suitable for a chemical peel treatment?

Chemical peels are non-invasive, making most people suitable for superficial or medium-depth peels. However, you may not be a candidate if:

• • You’ve had recent aesthetic treatments (e.g., laser, microneedling, or fillers).
  • The treatment area has infection, inflammation, warts, or cold sores.
  • You’ve used isotretinoin (Roaccutane) within the last 12 months.
  • You have conditions like eczema, dermatitis, or a history of keloid scarring.
  • You have severe pigmentation issues, such as vitiligo.
  • You’re pregnant or breastfeeding (some peels may still be suitable).
  • You’re allergic to aspirin (if salicylic acid is included in the peel).
  • You have a darker skin type and need a practitioner experienced in treating hyperpigmentation risks.

For deep peels, additional medical checks may be required. Always disclose your medical history, skincare routine, and any medications to ensure a safe and effective treatment.

Will my skin turn red and peel after a chemical peel?

We understand the concern—this is why we’re not fans of the term ‘chemical peel’!

Dr Rachel Tunney has carefully selected peels that deliver excellent results with minimal downtime. Like many of our patients, you likely don’t have the time to stay indoors for days with red, uncomfortable skin.

Our peels are designed to rejuvenate your skin effectively while allowing you to return to your routine quickly. 

Are there any side effects from a chemical peel?

The chemical peels offered by Dr Tunney in Romsey are superficial to medium-depth peels, which are generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects.

Side effects are rare and typically mild for superficial peels, resolving within a few days. However, deeper peels carry a slightly higher risk of adverse effects.

Potential Side Effects:

• • Redness, similar to sunburn
  • Temporary white discolouration or blotchiness
  • Mild itching
  • Dryness or flaking of the skin
  • Swelling, particularly in the under-eye area

By carefully selecting the right peel for your skin type and concerns, we aim to minimise risks and ensure safe, effective results.

What ingredients are in the chemical peels?

The chemical peels used by Dr Rachel Tunney are carefully formulated to target a variety of skin concerns using scientifically proven ingredients.

Obagi Blue Peel Radiance

This peel features salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) renowned for its ability to penetrate pores deeply. It exfoliates within the pores, making it highly effective for acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid helps prevent clogged pores by clearing excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells, reducing the risk of breakouts.

SkinCeuticals Peels

SkinCeuticals peels are powered by a combination of glycolic acid and lactic acid, two alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that work synergistically to rejuvenate the skin:

• Glycolic acid chemically breaks the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting natural exfoliation and revealing brighter, more radiant skin.
• Lactic acid enhances hydration while gently exfoliating, making it ideal for improving skin texture and moisture levels.

Together, these ingredients smooth and brighten the skin and improve the absorption of other active skincare ingredients for enhanced results.