Mandelic Acid Peel

Service Description

WHAT IT IS A superficial peel using mandelic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid derived from bitter almonds. Its molecules are considerably larger than glycolic acid, so it penetrates more slowly and evenly — which makes it markedly gentler. WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE IT It is the peel for skin that cannot tolerate the usual options. Sensitive skin, rosacea-prone skin and richly pigmented skin all do better with slow, even penetration, because the main risk in those skin types is inflammation triggering pigmentation. WHAT WE AIM FOR Improved tone, texture and clarity with a low risk of irritation or post-inflammatory pigmentation. WHO IT SUITS · Sensitive or reactive skin · Rosacea-prone skin · Darker skin tones where pigmentation risk matters · Melasma as part of a cautious plan · Having reacted badly to glycolic peels TREATMENT DETAILS Appointment: 20–30 minutes Discomfort: Mild — the gentlest peel offered Downtime: Slight redness; minimal flaking First results: After 2–3 sessions Sessions: Course of 4–6, two weeks apart Also useful for: Acne in sensitive skin FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Is gentler the same as less effective? Over a single session, yes — it does less. Over a course, it achieves a comparable result in skin that would have reacted badly to something stronger. For sensitive and richly pigmented skin, the slower route is the one that actually works. Can I have it if I have an almond or nut allergy? Tell Dr Selvi at consultation. Mandelic acid is derived from bitter almonds and your suitability needs assessing individually. Do I have to prepare my skin beforehand? For most peels, yes. Stop retinoids and exfoliating acids for about a week before, avoid sun exposure and fake tan, and do not have hair removal or waxing on the area for a week. Dr Selvi will give you specific instructions for your peel. What is the aftercare? Daily broad-spectrum SPF 50 is non-negotiable — freshly peeled skin burns and pigments easily, and skipping sun protection is the single most common reason a peel result disappoints. Use gentle cleansing, plenty of moisturiser, and do not pick or pull flaking skin. Can I have a peel if I have darker skin? Yes, but the choice of peel matters a great deal. Deeper peels carry a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in richly pigmented skin. Dr Selvi will select an appropriate peel and depth, and may recommend priming your skin beforehand. When should I not have a peel? Not during pregnancy or breastfeeding for most agents, not over active cold sores, broken skin or infection, not on recently sun-exposed or sunburnt skin, and not while taking oral isotretinoin or within six months of stopping. Tell Dr Selvi about all medications at consultation. How soon before an event should I have one? Allow at least two weeks for a light peel and four weeks for a medium-depth peel. Never have a peel for the first time in the week before something important. Who will treat me? All treatments at Dr Selvi Clinic are carried out by a doctor, following a face-to-face consultation and an assessment of your suitability. BOOKING Book online, or start with a free initial consultation if you are unsure which treatment is right for you. Prices are a guide and may vary according to your personalised treatment plan.