Chemical peels involve applying a solution to the skin to remove surface layers in a controlled way. Different formulations may be used depending on your individual needs.

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Risks and possible complications are set out further down this page and we ask that you read them before booking.

 

Who it may suit

People concerned with skin texture, congestion, dullness or uneven tone. The strength and type of peel is matched to your skin at consultation, and not every skin type or condition is suitable.

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What to expect

The skin is cleansed and prepared, and the solution is applied for a set time before being neutralised or removed. You may feel warmth or mild tingling. Appointments usually take around 30 to 45 minutes.

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The peels we offer

Three medical grade peels by The Skincare Company, each selected for your skin at your assessment.

Plump and Restore, Level 1 — for dry, dehydrated or dull skin, and the starting point if you are new to peels. Mandelic and lactic acids exfoliate gently while hyaluronic acid and niacinamide restore hydration. Superficial, with minimal downtime.

Deep and Meaningful, Level 2 — for oily, congested or acne-prone skin and uneven pigmentation. A higher concentration of glycolic, lactic and kojic acids with vitamin A to lift dullness, clear congestion and even out skin tone. Works at a superficial to medium depth.

Complexion Perfection, Level 3 — our strongest peel, for sun damage, pigmentation, superficial acne scarring and thickened or rough skin texture. Lactic, salicylic and resorcinol acids resurface at a medium depth, with vitamin A to support renewal and collagen. Expect some visible peeling.

All peels are $120. Dermalux LED can be added for $45, and a medical grade soothing sheet mask for $30.

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Preparation and downtime

Avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids, waxing and sun exposure for several days beforehand. Depending on the peel, you may experience redness, tightness, dryness or flaking for a few days. Sun protection and non-irritating skincare are important afterwards.

Before your first peel your skin needs 2 to 4 weeks of preparation with prescribed homecare, which we set up at your consultation. A course of 6 peels spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart is recommended for best results. Peels are not suitable during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, or if you have used Roaccutane in the past 6 months.

Afterwards, wear SPF 50+ every day and avoid active skincare for 3 to 7 days, heat and hot showers for 24 hours, direct sun for 7 days and makeup for 24 hours. After Complexion Perfection, the treated area must stay dry for 4 hours. Full written aftercare is provided at your appointment.

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Risks and possible complications

A chemical peel is a medical treatment and it carries risk, so it is worth knowing what to expect. Stinging or warmth during the peel is normal, and afterwards the skin is commonly red, tight, dry and flaky for several days, a little like mild sunburn. The skin can look worse before it looks better, and some people have a temporary breakout. Less commonly you may notice prolonged redness or swelling, itching, crusting, small white bumps, or a flare of an existing condition such as eczema, rosacea, acne or melasma, and cold sores can be reactivated. Infection is uncommon but possible, and spreading redness, increasing pain, pus or fever should be reported to us promptly. Changes in pigmentation, either darkening or lightening of the skin, are the most important risk to be aware of. They are more likely in deeper skin tones, with sun exposure afterwards, or if the skin is picked while it is peeling, so daily sun protection and leaving the skin alone genuinely matter. Rare complications include blistering, scarring and persistent pigment change. Peels are not suitable if you have an active skin infection or broken skin in the area, if you are taking or have recently finished oral isotretinoin, if you have a history of keloid scarring or poor wound healing, if you have had recent waxing, laser or resurfacing, or if you are unwell, and some formulations are avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding. A course is usually needed, results build gradually, they vary from person to person and some people notice little difference. Josie will go through the risks that apply to you, how they are managed and what to do if you are concerned afterwards, before you give consent. You are welcome to call the clinic on (02) 9331 7228 with any questions.

 

Please note

An in-person consultation is required before any treatment. Results may vary from person to person. Potential risks, benefits and suitability are discussed with you before any treatment is provided.

Common questions

What does a peel actually do?

A solution is applied to the skin for a controlled period to encourage the surface layer to shed and renew. Strength and formulation are chosen for your skin and your concern — a peel is a category, not a single treatment.

Will my skin visibly peel?

Sometimes, and sometimes not. Lighter peels often produce nothing more than a few days of slight dryness. Stronger ones can cause visible flaking from about day three. Visible peeling isn't a measure of whether it worked.

How much downtime should I plan for?

Anywhere from none to about a week, depending on the peel. I'll tell you which end of that range you're looking at before we start, not after.

I've got an event coming up — when should I book?

Two weeks clear beforehand for a lighter peel, three for anything stronger. Please don't book a first-time peel in the week before a wedding.

What do I need to stop using beforehand?

Usually retinoids, exfoliating acids and any scrubs for several days ahead, and no waxing or laser in the area. I'll give you specifics for your peel — don't guess from the internet.

Are peels safe for deeper skin tones?

Yes, with the right choice of peel and proper preparation. Some formulations carry a higher risk of pigmentation change in richer skin tones, which is exactly why the assessment matters more than the product.

How often can I have one?

Lighter peels can often be repeated every four to six weeks in a course. Stronger peels are spaced much further apart. More frequent is not better.