Skin Peels
Skin Peels
Why choose a skin peel?
Our skin has a natural skin cell renewal cycle of approximately 30 days. As the skin renews, dead skin cells ‘build up’ and thicken the outer most layer of skin (Stratum Corneum), resulting in a dull, lifeless, often congested, complexion. Peels are an effective, safe and relaxing method of exfoliating the skin with the use of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) to treat conditions such as ageing, acne, pigmentation and coarse skin texture. They are also a cheaper alternative to laser or IPL treatments.
At Zap Laser Clinic, we only use peels that give good results without any downtime for the client, so rest assured there is no actual “peeling” of the skin as seen on some drastic makeover TV shows. At Zap we are able to offer clients 3 strengths of peel, Regular (for all new clients), Maximum (for clients who have had a minimum of 3 Regular peels) and the new Intensive Wrinkle Reducer Rapid Peel, which resurfaces, thickens and plumps the skin.
How does it work?
The most effective of all AHAs is Glycolic Acid, (a naturally occurring substance derived from sugar cane) which due to its small molecular structure, can penetrate deep into the skin. It is a superior exfoliator as it dislodges the “glue-like” bonds that hold the dead skin cells together, hence removing sheets of dead skin cells at a time, to reveal younger, brighter, softer and smoother skin.
What are the benefits of a glycolic skin peel?
- Up to 16% reduction of fine lines (particularly around the eyes, mouth and neck) in the first week
- Up to 85% improvement in the overall appearance of ageing skin in just 3 weeks as it improves the collagen and elastin supply and promotes new cell growth
- Acts as a “super moisturiser” giving 115% increase in skin moisture in just 3 weeks
- Improves superficial pigmentation and evens out skin tone
- Improves acne scarring and reduces white and blackheads
- Reduces open pores
- Rejuvenates dull and lifeless skin
- Reduces stress and creates a feeling of deep relaxation
- Improves ingrown hairs after waxing and shaving for men and women
- Prepares skin for skin rejuvenation with the Lumina IPL system
How can it help acne?
Glycolic acid is a dramatic and outstanding tool in the care and maintenance of problem prone oily skin. It is an excellent cleansing agent, which acts by dissolving and dislodging the cellular glue that hold the dead skin cells together, and thus allow the follicle to cleanse itself and to prevent further blockages. Glycolic rehydrates and gives more oxygen to the skin helping it to look fresher, plumper and smoother. Glycolic also stimulates collagen which helps to lessen acne scarring.
How can it help dry, mature skin?
Glycolic acid will reduce fine lines and wrinkles by plumping out collagen; exfoliate age spots; hydrate internally because it attracts and holds water; refine and brighten the complexion; and finally firm loose and crepey skin.
How can it help ingrown hairs?
Shaving or waxing can often result in ingrowing hairs leaving the area inflamed with red, sore bumps that itch. Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (PFB) commonly known as razor bumps, occurs primarily in clients with curly, coarse hair who shave too closely. PFB can occur on the face, legs and bikini area. Glycolic dislodges the dead skin cells and removes them sheets at a time thus unblocking the hair follicles. The use of glycolic products helps to reduce the number of lesions and allow the hairs to grow more freely.
How can it help pigmentation?
Glycolic acid can help superficial pigmentation such as age spots, freckles and post acne by sloughing away the surface pigment and evening out the skin tone. With deeper/hormonal pigmentation such as chloasma, glycolic can work with pigment suppressing ingredients to exfoliate and suppress further pigmentation, along with a good SPF sun block.
What areas can be treated with skin peels?
Skin peels are very popular as a facial and neck treatment, however it is also very beneficial on body areas such as the chest, back and hands.
How is the treatment carried out?
Following a comprehensive skincare consultation and client consent, the treatment area will be cleansed and removed of any make-up. The area will then be massaged with a glycolic exfoliator to loosen the dead skin cells and to stimulate the skin. This is then removed and the skin is then prepped for the peel. The glycolic acid gel is then applied to the area with glycolic applicators and sweeping movements are made over the area for the set duration. Finally, the remaining gel is removed with warm, damp pads and a neutralising solution applied. The skin is then moisturised and an appropriate sun screen applied. Make-up can be re-applied immediately post treatment if required.
How does the treatment feel?
The treatment is very relaxing, however depending on pH of the client’s skin, a mild tingling sensation may be felt, but this is usually temporary. After the treatment, clients often comment on how soft their skin feels and some may feel some temporary tightness. The skin may also be slightly flaky for 2 to 3 days post treatment whilst the renewal occurs.
How soon will I see results?
Skin peels are a progressive procedure so clients will see a subtle improvement even after the first treatment. Generally, a minimum of 6 sessions is required, however, the skin will feel softer and the skin and circulation will improve with additional treatments as newer, healthier skin cells are produced.
Am I suitable for treatment?
Skin peels are suitable for all skin colours and types, although is not recommended for very sensitive skin. Clients, who have been prescribed Accutane, should not be treated until 6 months after medication has been discontinued.
As skin peels are a non-invasive procedure it is suitable for all ages, both male and female alike. The products are dermatologist and allergy tested and are fragrance free.
How many treatments will I need?
For problematic skin an initial course of 6 to 12 treatments at weekly o r fortnightly intervals is recommended. However, as the skin is constantly renewing itself and as skin peels are a progressive treatment, a monthly or quarterly maintenance programme is recommended for optimum results.
For tired or stressed skin, or clients with a special occasion in mind, skin peels are suitable for a quick pick-me-up as just after one treatment, skin will feel softer and look more radiant.
What about preparation and aftercare?
Unlike other glycolic peels, there is no necessity to prepare the skin for 2 weeks, as Dr Murad glycolic peels come in two strengths, Regular and Maximum. All clients can benefit from a regular glycolic peel immediately and gradually increase to the maximum strength as they progress through their course of treatments.
As dead skin cells have been removed to reveal younger, smoother and softer skin, it is vital to protect this skin against the harmful damage of the sun and the environment. It is therefore recommended that an SPF 30 sun cream is applied daily, eg Dr Murad Oil-Free Sunblock SPF 30.
What are the costs likely to be?
Prices start as low as £29 per treatment, when booking a course of 6 treatments. To book a skin peel today, please contact Zap Laser Clinic for a FREE no obligation consultation and your practitioner will be happy to advise you.
What next?
Contact Zap Laser Clinic on (0118) 9331212 for further information or to book a FREE no obligation consultation. Alternatively, complete the consultation request to send an e-mail
