Downtime really varies depending on how deep we go. With superficial peels (light AHA/BHA), you typically won’t have any visible peeling – just maybe some mild redness for a few hours and possibly light flaking for 2-3 days. You can wear makeup straight away and carry on as normal. Medium peels (higher concentration TCA) are a different story – you’ll have more significant peeling starting around day 2-3 and lasting 5-7 days. Your skin will be red, tight, and visibly peeling during this time. Not ideal if you’ve got a big event coming up! Deep peels (high TCA) need 7-14 days recovery with significant peeling, redness, and initial swelling. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and products to help you through each phase comfortably. Most patients find the results absolutely worth the temporary inconvenience.

This really depends on the type of peel and what you’re trying to achieve. Light peels can be done every 2-4 weeks as part of an ongoing maintenance programme – they’re gentle enough for regular use. Medium peels need more spacing – typically 3-6 months apart to let your skin fully recover between treatments. Deep peels might only be needed once a year or even less frequently. Many patients do well with a series approach – starting with several light peels to prep the skin, then progressing to medium depth for more dramatic results. For conditions like acne or melasma, we might recommend monthly treatments initially, then maintenance every 2-3 months. Your skin’s response guides the schedule – some people get great results quickly, while others benefit from regular, ongoing treatments.

Yes, but we need to be extra careful. Darker skin has more melanin and a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) with aggressive peeling. However, when done properly, peels can be brilliant for concerns common in darker skin like hyperpigmentation and acne scarring. We typically use gentler acids like lactic acid or low-concentration glycolic acid. Salicylic acid is excellent for darker skin as it’s anti-inflammatory. TCA can be used but requires very careful application and pre-treatment with pigment inhibitors. Pre-treatment might include hydroquinone or kojic acid to suppress melanin production. Post-care is absolutely critical – strict sun protection and anti-inflammatory care are non-negotiable. Our experience treating all skin types means we can safely and effectively peel darker skin tones. We might suggest test patches and conservative initial treatments to ensure your skin responds well.

Getting your skin ready properly is crucial for best results. Before your peel, stop using retinoids 3-7 days before (depending on strength), avoid sun exposure and definitely no tanning, discontinue other exfoliating treatments, and let us know about any medications – especially Accutane. Skip waxing for at least a week before. After your peel, the rules are just as important: absolutely no sun exposure without high SPF, don’t pick or peel flaking skin (we know it’s tempting!), avoid active ingredients like retinoids and acids until fully healed, stay away from heat (saunas, hot yoga) for 48 hours, and use only the gentle products we recommend. Makeup can usually go back on after superficial peels but should be avoided with deeper treatments until peeling is complete. Exercise should be limited for 24-48 hours to prevent excessive sweating. Following these guidelines ensures optimal healing and results while minimising any complications.