Chemical peels, types and suitability

Chemical peels use acids or similar agents to accelerate how the outer skin sheds. The old East Brisbane menu listed them as a paramedical service. They remain one of the most searched non-injectable treatments in this niche.

Types are a spectrum, not a mood

Clinicians often speak of very superficial, superficial, medium and deep. The borders depend on the agent and how it is used. A “glow peel” label on a board tells you nothing about depth.

Ask which layer is the target and what the expected downtime range is — as a range, not as a guarantee.

Suitability is a history exam

Recent sunburn, pregnancy, isotretinoin, cold sores, keloid history and some pigmentation patterns change the plan. Fitzpatrick skin type conversations exist because pigment change is a known risk. If a room skips that, leave.

What happens in a cosmetic consultation still applies even when the tray holds a swab, not a syringe.

Home acids are not a mini-clinic

Over-the-counter lotions can irritate a barrier that a peel will later meet. Tell the practitioner what you already use. Retinoids and over-the-counter anti-ageing skincare helps you describe it accurately.

Downtime is a diary problem

Flaking can last days. Redness can last longer. Neither is a “result”. Both are reasons to look at work, school photos and river walks. Heat, exercise and travel after a clinic visit belongs on the same calendar.

Pigment and scars need humility

Peels are sometimes discussed for certain marks. They can also worsen pigment. Anyone who guarantees an even tone is writing an outcome claim we reject. See editorial standards.

Aftercare is part of the treatment

Bland care, antiviral medicine if prescribed for herpes risk, and strict photoprotection are common themes. Follow the sheet you were given, then use our aftercare hub as background only.

Where peels sit in this archive

Pair this page with microdermabrasion and everyday exfoliation versus clinic treatments so you do not stack three shedding methods in one week.