What Is a Chemical Peel?

At Dermoperfection, one of our foundational offerings is the medical-grade chemical peel — a controlled exfoliation that reveals healthier, smoother skin. In this article, we explain what a chemical peel is, how it works, who it’s suitable for, risks, and why clients across Birmingham choose Dermoperfection for their peel treatments.

A chemical peel is a professional aesthetic procedure in which a specialised chemical solution is applied to the skin. This causes controlled injury to the outer layers (epidermis and sometimes upper dermis), prompting regeneration and revealing fresher skin. The result is improved skin tone, texture, brightness, and reduced appearance of pigmentation, sun damage, fine lines, and mild scarring.

Why People Choose a Chemical PeeL

Local skin issues: Many patients face sun damage, pigmentation, and uneven tone from UK weather and environmental factors.
Complementary to other treatments: At Dermoperfection, we often combine peels with microneedling, laser, or dermal fillers to maximise results.
Clinic trust & safety: Our patients prefer a medical clinic setting for assurance, supervision, and tailored care.

Types & Depths of Peels

We may use different strengths, chosen for your skin type and concern:

Superficial peels (e.g. low-concentration glycolic, salicylic, lactic acids)
Medium peels (e.g. trichloroacetic acid (TCA) blends)
Advanced / combination peels
The deeper the peel, the greater potential effect — but also increased risk and downtime. We carefully select what’s safe and effective for skin in Birmingham / West Midlands.

At Dermoperfection, we proudly offer PCA Skin and Obagi medical-grade peels — two globally recognised brands known for their clinical efficacy and safety. These formulations allow us to precisely target a wide range of skin concerns, from pigmentation and acne to ageing and texture irregularities.

The deeper the peel, the greater potential effect, but also increased risk and downtime. We carefully select what’s safe and effective for skin in Birmingham and across the West Midlands.

What Issues Can a Peel Address?

Uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, and melasma
Sun damage & sunspots
Fine lines and early wrinkles
Texture irregularities, dullness
Mild acne scarring or enlarged pores
Preparing skin before other aesthetic treatments

Risks & Precautions

Because chemical peels intentionally exfoliate the skin, there are risks. At Dermoperfection, our team follows strict protocols to minimise them:

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (especially in deeper peels or pigmented skin)
Infection, scarring (rare)
Prolonged redness, irritation
Reactivation of cold sores
Increased UV sensitivity

We always perform a detailed consultation, medical history review, and patch testing if needed. Deep peels may require more recovery and supervision.

Preparation & Aftercare

Before your peel

Avoid sun exposure / tanning for 2–4 weeks
Cease aggressive exfoliants / retinoids
Use any preparatory serums (as advised)
Discontinue cosmetic procedures just before

During treatment
We cleanse, degrease, apply the peel, monitor reaction, neutralise, then soothe.

Aftercare

Use only gentle cleansers, barrier creams, and soothing products
Strict sun protection (SPF 30+ every day)
Avoid active ingredients until skin recovers
Do not pick peeling skin; allow it to shed naturally

At Dermoperfection, we provide a custom aftercare kit and guidance tailored to Birmingham’s climate and your skin type.

What to Expect & Maintenance

You may experience peeling between days 2–6, with new skin brightening over 1–2 weeks.
Results last differently depending on your skin, sun habits, and follow-up care.
We often recommend a series of 3–6 peels spaced 4–6 weeks apart for lasting change, you can learn more about the treatment here

Why Trust Dermoperfection

Clinically supervised, medical environment
Tailored peel selection based on detailed skin analysis
Transparent communication & evidence-based practice
Post-treatment support and maintenance for long-term results

If you’re curious whether a chemical peel is right for your skin goals in Birmingham or the West Midlands, book a consultation with Dermoperfection today. We’ll assess your skin, discuss options, and design a safe, effective plan.