Chemical Peels in London
Chemical peels in London are performed by GMC-registered dermatologists using glycolic acid peels (20-70%) for superficial exfoliation treating fine lines, mild acne, and dull skin achieving fresher complexion with no downtime, TCA peels (10-35%) for medium-depth treatment of pigmentation, acne scars, and sun damage providing 30-50% improvement over 3-6 sessions with 3-7 days peeling, and salicylic acid peels for acne-prone skin reducing breakouts and blackheads with treatment costs £150-£600 per session.
London cosmetic dermatologists treat acne scarring, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, sun damage, fine wrinkles, uneven skin texture, and enlarged pores using medical-grade peels achieving controlled skin injury stimulating collagen production and cell turnover with multiple sessions spaced 2-4 weeks delivering cumulative improvement.Peel Types & Depth
Superficial Peels
Glycolic Acid (20-70%):
Mildest peel, lunchtime peel
No downtime
Slight redness 1-2 hours
Cost: £150-£300
4-6 sessions monthly
Salicylic Acid (20-30%):
Best for acne-prone skin
Oil-soluble penetrates pores
Reduces breakouts
Cost: £150-£300
Mandelic Acid:
Gentlest peel
Suitable for sensitive skin
Cost: £150-£250
Medium-Depth Peels
TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid 10-35%):
Pigmentation, acne scars
3-7 days peeling
30-50% improvement
Cost: £300-£600
3-6 sessions needed
Jessner's Peel:
Combination peel
Moderate peeling
Cost: £250-£450
Deep Peels
Phenol Peel:
Performed by specialists only
Significant downtime (2+ weeks)
Dramatic results
Rarely used (laser preferred)
Cost: £800-£2,000
Browse cosmetic dermatologists for chemical peel specialists.
Treatment Costs
Peel Type | Cost per Session | Downtime | Sessions |
|---|---|---|---|
Glycolic | £150-£300 | None | 4-6 |
Salicylic | £150-£300 | 1-2 days | 4-6 |
TCA | £300-£600 | 3-7 days | 3-6 |
Jessner's | £250-£450 | 3-5 days | 3-4 |
Insurance: Not covered (cosmetic).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do chemical peels hurt?
Chemical peels cause tolerable tingling or stinging during application lasting 5-10 minutes controlled with fan cooling or cold compresses. Superficial peels (glycolic, salicylic) cause mild tingling easily tolerated without anaesthesia. Medium peels (TCA) cause moderate stinging for 5-10 minutes subsiding after neutralisation. Deep peels require anaesthesia but rarely performed. Most patients find chemical peels very tolerable with discomfort temporary during application only.
How long does chemical peel recovery take?
Chemical peel recovery varies by peel depth. Superficial peels (glycolic, salicylic) cause no downtime with slight redness 1-2 hours enabling immediate return to work. Medium peels (TCA) cause 3-7 days peeling with redness, flaking, and temporary skin darkening before shedding requiring time off social activities. Deep peels need 2+ weeks recovery rarely performed. Schedule medium peels before weekends or holidays avoiding important events during peeling phase.
Are chemical peels safe for dark skin?
Chemical peels can be safe for dark skin when performed by experienced dermatologists using appropriate peel types and conservative protocols. Glycolic and salicylic acid peels are safest for dark skin with low hyperpigmentation risk. TCA peels risk post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in dark skin requiring test spots and gradual strength increases. Avoid deep peels in dark skin due to high hyperpigmentation risk. Choose dermatologists experienced in skin of colour like Dr. Anjali Mahto.
How many chemical peel sessions do I need?
Chemical peel sessions required vary by condition treated and peel depth. Acne requires 4-6 superficial peels monthly achieving 50-70% improvement. Pigmentation needs 4-8 medium peels monthly lightening 40-60%. Fine lines require 6-8 superficial peels improving 30-40%. Acne scars need 4-6 medium peels improving 30-50%. Maintenance peels quarterly preserve results long-term. Deeper peels require fewer sessions than superficial peels achieving similar results.
Can I combine chemical peels with other treatments?
Chemical peels combine effectively with other treatments for enhanced results. Combine peels with topical retinoids improving cell turnover and peel penetration (stop retinoids 3-5 days before peel). Combine with microneedling alternating monthly addressing different skin layers. Combine with laser treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart avoiding excessive skin trauma. Combine with medical skincare optimising peel results through barrier repair and sun protection. Discuss combination protocols with dermatologist maximising safety and results.
Next Steps
Contact chemical peel specialists: