Chemical Peels

Medical-grade chemical peels to treat uneven skin tone, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, acne, and texture irregularities. A range of peel formulations from superficial enzyme peels to deeper resurfacing acids allows the treatment to be matched to individual skin concerns and tolerance. Sessions run approximately forty-five minutes. Downtime varies from zero to a few days of peeling depending on peel depth selected.

Chemical peels at Aesthetics by Melanie use medical-grade acid formulations to create a controlled exfoliation event in the skin, removing accumulations of damaged or irregular epidermal cells and stimulating the dermis to produce new collagen and a fresher surface. Melanie Brooks selects from a menu of peel types calibrated to the client's skin concern, Fitzpatrick skin tone, and tolerance for post-treatment peeling or social downtime. Enzyme peels at the superficial end of the spectrum use protease enzymes derived from fruit sources to dissolve the protein bonds holding dead corneocytes together at the skin surface, producing gentle exfoliation with no peeling and zero downtime — appropriate for sensitive skin, maintenance treatments, or pre-event brightening. Calming and oxygen facials incorporate superficial peel-like steps as part of a broader hydration and soothing protocol. Moving deeper, acid-based peels using lactic acid, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or combinations thereof penetrate into the viable epidermis and upper papillary dermis, causing controlled necrosis and sloughing of the damaged epidermal layer over three to seven days post-treatment. The subsequent re-epithelialisation from the basal layer and adnexal structures produces a renewal effect: improved tone evenness, refined pore appearance, reduced fine lines, and lighter post-inflammatory pigmentation marks. The brightening facial uses a formulation targeting melanin excess, appropriate for melasma, sun spots, and post-breakout marks. Enzyme calming and oxygen facials prioritise anti-inflammatory and hydrating outcomes for reactive, rosacea-prone, or sensitive skin types. Each session begins with a skin assessment to confirm the appropriate formulation and concentration, ensuring the depth of treatment matches the skin's current barrier status. Sun protection post-peel is essential, as freshly renewed skin is more photosensitive for two to four weeks after treatment.