Skin Rejuvenation
Chemical Peel
A professional skin-resurfacing treatment using carefully selected acids to exfoliate the outer layers of skin and encourage a brighter, fresher complexion. Peels can be tailored in strength for many skin concerns and skin types.
Authored by Kelly Rafique, published 29 August 2026.
Clinically reviewed by Kelly Rafique, last reviewed 1 September 2026.
A chemical peel is a professional skin-resurfacing treatment that uses carefully selected acids to exfoliate the outer layers of the skin and encourage fresh, brighter-looking skin to emerge. It can be a great option if you're concerned about dullness, uneven texture, congestion, enlarged pores, mild acne, fine lines, or patchy pigmentation. Peels can be tailored in strength, making them suitable for many skin types when correctly assessed. It may not be suitable if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, have active cold sores, broken or infected skin, uncontrolled eczema/psoriasis in the area, or you're using certain prescription-strength topical treatments (for example, isotretinoin in recent months). Most appointments take around 45 minutes, depending on the peel type and whether you include preparatory skincare.
Gallery
Concerns Addressed
- Dullness
- Pigmentation
- Congestion
- Fine Lines
Products We Use
- BioRePeel
Performed by
Kelly Rafique
Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner
Why Choose a Registered Nurse Prescriber?
Because your safety means everything to me.
- Over 17 years of NHS experience
- A degree in adult nursing
- A Master's in Advanced Clinical Practice
- Registered as a non-medical prescriber with a V300 qualification
- Level 7 qualification in History Taking and Physical Examination for Advancing Practice
What Happens During Treatment
You'll arrive for a brief skin check and confirmation of your medical history and aftercare plan. We cleanse the skin thoroughly, protect delicate areas (such as corners of the nose and lips), then apply the peel in controlled layers. You may feel warmth or a stinging/tingling sensation for a few minutes. The peel is neutralised (where required) and removed, then we apply soothing post-peel products and SPF. Before you leave, we'll talk you through what to expect over the next few days and provide written aftercare.
Expected Results
Skin often looks smoother and more radiant as it settles. Results are gradual and vary by peel depth and skin concern.
How long results may last: Many clients choose a course and then maintenance peels every 4–8 weeks to sustain improvements.
Downtime & Recovery
Downtime depends on peel strength. You may have redness, tightness, dryness and visible flaking for several days. Mild sensitivity and temporary breakouts can occur. Make-up is usually best avoided for 24 hours (or as advised for your peel).
Side Effects, Risks & Contraindications
Possible side effects
- Redness, tightness and dryness
- Visible flaking for several days, depending on peel strength
- Mild sensitivity or temporary breakouts
Risks
- Irritation or prolonged redness
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, more likely with deeper peels or sun exposure
- Herpes simplex flare in those prone to cold sores
- Contact dermatitis
- Rarely, scarring or infection if the skin barrier is disrupted
Contraindications
- Broken skin or active infection, including cold sores
- A flare of inflammatory skin conditions in the treatment area
- Usually avoided in pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Caution needed if you've used isotretinoin, have a history of keloid scarring, or are prone to abnormal pigmentation — assessed at consultation
Aftercare
For the first 3–7 days (depending on peel type): keep skincare simple — gentle cleanser, bland moisturiser, and broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 daily. Avoid picking or peeling flaking skin. Skip retinoids, exfoliating acids, scrubs, fragranced products, and waxing/depilatories on the area until fully settled. Avoid saunas, steam rooms, intense exercise, swimming pools, and very hot showers for 24–48 hours (longer for stronger peels). Keep sun exposure to a minimum and reapply SPF regularly. If you develop significant swelling, blistering, spreading redness, pus, or feel unwell, contact the clinic urgently.
Pricing
| Single treatment (BioRePeel) | £80 |
| Course of 3 treatments (BioRePeel) | £210 |
| Course of 4 treatments (BioRePeel) | £275 |
| Course of 6 treatments (BioRePeel) | £400 |
| 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th or 6th treatment (courses only)Included in the course price above — for booking a follow-up session within an already-purchased course. | £0 |
Related Treatments
Facials
Professional, skin-focused facials designed to cleanse, hydrate and refresh the complexion while supporting your skin barrier and long-term skin health. Most appointments take 45–60 minutes.
Microneedling
Fine, controlled micro-injuries created across the skin using a microneedling device, used here alongside Dermafocus's Purasomes exosome serum to support the skin's own repair process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an appointment for Chemical Peel take?
Around 45 minutes
Is there any downtime after Chemical Peel?
Downtime depends on peel strength. You may have redness, tightness, dryness and visible flaking for several days. Mild sensitivity and temporary breakouts can occur. Make-up is usually best avoided for 24 hours (or as advised for your peel).
What results can I expect from Chemical Peel?
Skin often looks smoother and more radiant as it settles. Results are gradual and vary by peel depth and skin concern.
How long do the results of Chemical Peel last?
Many clients choose a course and then maintenance peels every 4–8 weeks to sustain improvements.
Results vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed. All treatments are carried out only after a full consultation to confirm suitability, discuss risks, and obtain informed consent. Prescription-only treatments are prescribed solely following an individual clinical assessment by a qualified prescriber. The information on this website is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice — please contact us with any questions about a specific treatment.