Advanced Chemical Peels

What are Advanced Chemical Peels?

Over time, factors such as age and sun exposure can influence the skin’s appearance. An advanced chemical peel consultation provides an opportunity to discuss these changes and explore professional options for concerns such as acne, pigmentation, fine lines, or uneven texture.

At Shellharbour Skin, we offer access to a range of professional-grade peel formulations suitable for use within a clinical setting by qualified practitioners. Your clinician will assess your skin to determine which options may be appropriate for discussion based on your individual skin type and goals.

Understanding Advanced Chemical Peels

skin’s surface, which aids in controlled exfoliation. This exfoliation process helps to remove superficial skin cells, which can be relevant for individuals concerned about dull or congested-looking skin. A key part of the consultation is tailoring the approach to your specific skin characteristics and aesthetic goals.

Each peel formulation has unique properties that help determine the skin concerns they may be suitable for discussing. Consultations about advanced chemical peels often cover how they can support the skin’s natural processes of renewal. This is relevant for discussions around the appearance of skin texture, fine lines, and large pores. The primary goal of the consultation is to help you understand the process, including how it addresses the outer layers of the skin and what you can expect during and after the session. The face and neck are the most common areas of focus for these consultations.

Common Discussion Topics in Consultations

• Uneven pigmentation or sun-related changes
• Acne or post-inflammatory scarring
• Freckles, age spots, or sunspots
• Blackheads or enlarged pores
• Fine lines or mild textural irregularities

Your consultation at Shellharbour Skin

Before proceeding with any peel, an initial consultation is required. During this appointment, Dr Barney Gordon or a qualified clinician will:

• Review your medical history, current medications, and skincare use
• Discuss your concerns and expectations
• Evaluate your skin to determine suitability
• Explain the different formulations available and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure

This is your opportunity to ask questions and make an informed decision about whether a professional-grade peel may be suitable for you.

What to Expect

Before the procedure, you may be advised to follow specific pre-treatment guidance, such as avoiding sun exposure and certain skincare products or activities that could affect the skin.

Step 1 – Cleansing the Skin

Your skin will be gently cleansed to remove surface oils, makeup, and impurities. This helps prepare the skin for even application of the peel solution.

Step 2 – Application of the Peel Solution

A professional-grade chemical peel solution is carefully applied to the skin and left on for a specific period of time. Your clinician will monitor your comfort throughout the process.

Step 3 – Neutralisation and Removal

A neutralising agent may be applied to complete the exfoliation process. The clinician will then remove any remaining solution and apply post-procedure products designed to support skin comfort and hydration.

This process works on the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and is intended to assist its natural renewal functions. Peel formulations vary in strength — some act more superficially, while others reach slightly deeper within the epidermal layer. The session usually takes around 30 minutes to complete.

During your consultation, Dr Barney Gordon or your clinician will explain the available peel formulations, what each is designed for, and determine whether a lighter or stronger professional-grade peel is most appropriate for you.

Cost of Advanced Chemical Peel consultations in Illawarra

The cost of an advanced chemical peel varies depending on several factors, such as the area of focus, the number of sessions discussed, and the complexity of the individual’s treatment plan.

Each plan is tailored to the individual’s needs following a consultation. During this consultation, Dr Barney Gordon or the Clinician will review your medical history, assess your skin, and discuss your goals to provide an accurate cost estimate.

To obtain a clear understanding of the potential cost, please contact our clinic to arrange an initial consultation.

Aftercare & The Post-Procedure Experience

After an advanced chemical peel, it is important to follow the aftercare plan provided by your clinician. Your skin will naturally progress through a period of recovery, and its appearance may change as part of this normal process.

For milder peels, you may return to most daily activities soon after the session. Stronger formulations may be associated with temporary redness, swelling, dryness, or mild flaking as the skin renews.

To support the skin during recovery:

• Avoid direct sun exposure and apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50+.
• Avoid makeup for 24 hours.
• Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, or hot yoga for 24 hours.
• Pause active skincare products (such as retinol or acids) for five to seven days.
• Do not pick or peel the skin; allow natural exfoliation.
• Use gentle hydration and maintain moisture as directed by your clinician.

Your clinician may also discuss how to incorporate complementary treatments as part of a broader skin management plan.

Risks & complications

All cosmetic and medical procedures carry potential risks. These will be discussed with you during your consultation to support informed decision-making.. Potential risks of professional-grade peels include:

• Temporary redness, swelling, or dryness
• Skin discolouration or uneven tone
• Itching or mild sensitivity
  In rare cases, scarring or infection

Our team will provide you with a comprehensive aftercare plan to help you manage your post-procedure experience. If you experience unexpected symptoms such as significant redness, pain, or persistent swelling, you should contact the clinic for assessment and further guidance.