Why does skin develop pigmentation problems?

Exposure to the sun (UV light) causes the pigment producing cells in your skin, called melanocytes, to produce pigment. Excessive exposure to the sun or sun beds cause damage to the melanocytes leading to pigmentation problems. Hormonal changes and certain medications can also result in uneven pigmentation. Skins of a Mediterranean, Asian and black skins are highly prone to uneven pigmentation and post-traumatic pigmentation.

What is the ICP Peel?

The Innovative Concept Peel (ICP) is different to all other rejuvenating and de-pigmenting procedures. Originally created as a treatment for pigmentation on the face, the ICP Peel can successfully treat most areas of the body. It is a powerful treatment for photo ageing and abnormal pigmentation of hormonal origin such as melasma and cholasma and is used to treat stretch marks and post acne scarring. The ICP Peel can be used on all skin types (including Asian and black skins) and provides results comparable to classical medium depth peeling without the risk, discomfort or down time associated with these peels.

How does the ICP Peel work?

Because the peel contains a number of ingredients that are acidic, essentially they ‘damage’ the top layers of the skin. This process removes or reduces blemishes, discolouration and minor scarring caused by sun damage and Acne. The skin will repair itself by peeling away the top layers that have been treated, revealing ‘new’ skin underneath. The peel also has a tightening effect on the skin. Following the peel, the camel Maintenance Cream, provided in the kit, will continue to break down the pigmentation in the deeper layers of the skin.

Who is Skin Peel treatment suitable for?

Subject to initial medical screening, both men and women of any age can benefit from the treatment. You should NOT have treatment if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, have a skin infection, suffer from Keloid scarring or have warts in the area to be treated.

What happens during the treatment?

A thick yellow paste is applied to the skin in the surgery and depending on the ‘depth’ of the treatment, will remain on the skin for a period of time. The skin will initially look red, a little like sunburn. Over the next few days, the skin will tighten and will begin to peel slightly. The level of peeling will depend upon the ‘depth’ of the treatment. Special moisturising creams are applied and the peeling process will gradually slow. The skin usually returns to normal after five days.

How long does the treatment take?

The time in the clinic will typically be around 30 minutes. The length of time the skin takes to complete the peeling and repair process is also dependent on the ‘depth’ of the treatment, but will generally be around five days. However, you may be required to use the Cimel Maintenance Cream for a further three months to achieve the desired results.

Is it painful?

Because the procedure involves the application of an acidic solution, it can initially create the sensation of heat and irritation, although the peel is not painful. The skin may feel a little swollen and tender for a few days after treatment.

When will I notice a difference?

Once the peeling process has completed, the skin will appear tighter, clearer and more radiant. Resolution of epidermal pigment can be achieved within four weeks; dermal pigment may take up to twelve weeks to achieve the desired result.

How many times can I be treated with the ICP Peel?

There is no maximum to the number of times you can receive the treatment. However, your clinician will advise you how to maintain your result.

What happens pre and post-treatment?

You will need to complete a medical questionnaire to ensure there are no reasons why you cannot receive treatment. After the ICP Peel you will be given an after-care leaflet which tells you what to do following treatment. It is important that these after-care instructions are followed carefully to ensure the maximum benefit from the treatment and to avoid the risk of complications or side-effects. One of the most important after-care factors is the protection of the skin from sunlight. A high-factor sunscreen must be worn for about 12 weeks after treatment, so exposure to strong sunlight (holidays) should be avoided.

Are there any adverse effects?

As with all treatments, people’s bodies react differently. There is a risk of skin infection and the break-out of cold sores for those people who have a history of them. However, if the after-care instructions provided by the clinician are followed carefully and the clinician notified of any susceptibility to infection, these risks can be minimised.