This treatment is a cosmetic procedure where a chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove damaged outer layers.
Chemical Peels Treatments Overview
Chemical Peels involve the controlled application of acidic agents (e.g. glycolic, salicylic, lactic, TCA) to remove the outermost layers of skin. This facial treatment accelerates exfoliation and cellular turnover, which is used by dermal therapists to improve the clarity, texture, and tone of their clients’ skin.
This treatment can be used to reduce wrinkles or address skin concerns like scarring from acne or sun damage. Chemical Peels have different strengths and recovery times based on the acidic agent used, and the chosen acid is determined by the aesthetic goal and skin type of the client. While this is a safe treatment, it is essential to properly prepare your skin and follow pre- and post-care treatment instructions.
Benefits and Use Cases
Chemical Peels are able to benefit many clients across a variety of skin concerns, and while there are common contraindications, such as active acne, sunburn, and pregnancy, these are easily identified by qualified dermal therapists. Peels range from superficial to medium depth and must be chosen based on Fitzpatrick skin type.
Use cases for Chemical Peels include:
Acne
Hyperpigmentation
Photo-ageing
Fine lines
The benefits of Chemical Peel treatments are:
Brighter skin
Reduced breakouts
Diminished surface pigment
Pre-Care
To ensure the best results with Chemical Peels, we recommend you take the following steps before treatment:
5-7 Days Prior
Use SPF 50+ daily
Stop using active products (Retinol, AHA/BHA, etc)
No waxing, shaving, IPL, electrolysis, or depilatory creams
No antibiotics or photosensitising herbs (e.g. St John’s Wort) 2 weeks prior
No cosmetic injections in the area
Avoid sun exposure – tanned orsunburnt skin cannot be treated
Start antiviral medication if you’re prone tocold sores (perioral herpes)
On the Day
Allow 45–60 mins for consult and treatment
No makeup
Do not shave treatment area on the day
Aftercare
To ensure the best results with Chemical Peels, werecommend you take the following steps after treatment:
Avoid heat: hot water, exercise, saunas for 24 hours
No swimming for at least 24 hours
No makeup or cleansing until the evening after the peel
Use a gentle cleanser only – no exfoliation for 5 days
Moisturise at least twice a day to prevent dryness or flaking
Use cool compress after 4 hours if needed for swelling or discomfort
Always wear SPF 50+ (even on cloudy days)
Avoid sun exposure until skin is fully healed
Do not pick, scratch, or peel skin– this can scar
Resume actives (like retinoids) only when advised
Avoid other skin treatments for at least 2 weeks
What to Expect?
Peeling may start 1–3 days post-peel and last up to 5 days
Skin may feel tight, warm, itchy, dry, or look darker – this is normal
Crusting or flaking may occur depending on peel strength
OTC creams (e.g. Polysporin or hydrocortisone) may help if advised
What qualifications teach this treatment?
Chemical Peels is taught as part of our CAP102 Dermal Therapy 1 unit, which is part of the following qualifications at ACHW: