Star Aesthetic Centre Durban

SKIN & HAIR

Professional Peels

Medical Skin Peels in Durban North — Depth and Formulation Selected After Assessment

There are times when your skin no longer reflects how vibrant and confident you feel. Whether it is uneven pigmentation, breakouts, rough texture, or the visible effects of sun exposure and ageing, these changes can affect both your appearance and confidence.

Professional peels use selected acids to promote skin renewal, and may help improve the appearance of dullness, uneven skin tone, congestion, acne-prone skin and early signs of ageing. How much improvement any individual sees varies with skin type, the concern being treated and how many sessions are completed.

At Star Aesthetic Centre, we believe that every skin journey is unique. Following a thorough consultation and skin assessment, Dr Bangalee and our experienced team will recommend the most appropriate peel or combination of treatments based on your individual skin needs, concerns, and goals.

Our aim is to help you achieve healthier, brighter-looking skin through evidence-based treatments tailored specifically to you.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Rajeev Bangalee, MBBCh · Star Aesthetic Centre, Durban North

At a Glance

  • InvestmentFrom R 665 per session (peel type dependent)
  • Duration30–60 minutes
  • DowntimeSuperficial peels: 2–4 days; Medium-depth: 5–7 days

What is a professional peel?

A chemical peel is a professional skin resurfacing treatment that uses carefully selected exfoliating acids to remove accumulated dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. Through controlled exfoliation, chemical peels can help improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, pigmentation, sun damage, acne-prone skin, congestion, fine lines, and overall skin texture.

The depth and strength of the peel are tailored to your individual skin type, concerns, and treatment goals. Depending on your needs, a superficial, medium-depth, or more intensive peel may be recommended as part of your personalised treatment plan.

At Star Aesthetic Centre we offer a range of professional peels from medical skincare brands, including NeoStrata glycolic peels, Dermaceutic TCA, Crystal and Mela Forte peels, Mesoestetic Melanostop Tranex peels and the Institut Esthederm Multi-Peel. Following a comprehensive skin assessment, Dr Bangalee will recommend the most appropriate peel, treatment protocol, or combination approach based on your skin's unique needs.

Whether used on their own or as part of a wider skin programme, peels remain a versatile option across a range of skin concerns. Treatment recommendations are always tailored to your individual needs, ensuring a personalised approach that supports both your immediate goals and long-term skin health.

How it Works

1

Consultation & Skin Assessment

Dr. Bangalee assesses your skin type, Fitzpatrick classification, and specific concerns to select the most appropriate peel formulation.
2

Pre-Peel Preparation

For deeper peels, 2–4 weeks of home-care priming (retinol, AHA) may be recommended to improve results and reduce complications.
3

Skin Cleansing & Degreasing

The skin is thoroughly cleansed with a pre-peel solution to ensure even penetration and consistent results.
4

Peel Application

The selected peel solution is applied in controlled layers. You will feel warmth, tingling, or mild stinging — all expected and a sign the peel is active.
5

Neutralisation

Some formulations require neutralisation with a bicarbonate solution; others self-neutralise at the correct depth.
6

Post-Peel Treatment

Soothing serum, moisturiser, and SPF50+ are applied. Written aftercare instructions are provided before you leave.

Pricing

NeoStrata Glycolic Peels

All peels include a brightening or clarifying booster peel.

20% Glycolic — FaceR 665
20% Glycolic — Face and neckR 730
35% Glycolic — FaceR 730
35% Glycolic — Face and neckR 790
50% Glycolic — FaceR 790
50% Glycolic — Face and neckR 850

Dermaceutic TCA Peels

12% TCA — FaceR 1,595
12% TCA — Face and neck / Hands / FeetR 1,870
12% TCA — Half armR 2,805
12% TCA — Full arm / Back / LegR 4,930
15% TCA — FaceR 1,705
15% TCA — Face and neck / Hands / FeetR 1,925
15% TCA — Half armR 2,530
15% TCA — Full arm / Back / LegR 5,060
18% TCA — FaceR 1,815
18% TCA — Face and neck / Hands / FeetR 1,960
18% TCA — Half armR 2,640
18% TCA — Full arm / Back / LegR 5,170
20% TCA — FaceR 1,925
20% TCA — Face and neck / Hands / FeetR 2,090
20% TCA — Half armR 2,750
20% TCA — Full arm / Back / LegR 5,500

Institut Esthederm Multi-Peel

A layered peel combining several acid strengths, selected at assessment.

FaceQuoted at consultation
Face and neckQuoted at consultation

Pixel Peel — Microneedling + TCA

FaceR 3,250

Dermaceutic Crystal Peel

FaceR 1,300
Face and neckR 1,815

Dermaceutic Mela Forte Peel

FaceR 2,200
Face and neckR 2,500

Mesoestetic Melanostop Tranex Peel

EyeR 500
FaceR 950
Face and eyeR 1,350
Face and eye with MicroneedlingR 2,200

Mesopeel MD Melanostop Tranex Peel

EyeR 500
FaceR 1,400

Dermaplaning

Face (standalone)R 800
Add-on to any skin treatmentR 600
  • *Numbing cream available: R 110.

Expected Results & Timeline

Day 1: Skin appears flushed — a mild 'sunburn' sensation is normal. Days 2–4: Peeling begins — this is new skin emerging, not damage. Days 5–7: Peeling complete; brighter, fresher skin visible. Week 2 onwards: Continued improvement as collagen remodelling progresses. Peak results at 2–4 weeks post-peel, with cumulative improvement after each session in a course of 3–6 peels.

Downtime & Aftercare:

Superficial peels: 2–4 days mild flaking. Medium-depth: 5–7 days visible peeling. Home care protocol essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a chemical peel actually do to my skin?

A chemical peel applies an acidic solution that breaks the bonds between old, dead skin cells, causing controlled exfoliation. The removal of outer skin layers triggers the skin's natural renewal response — stimulating cell turnover, new collagen production, and the emergence of fresh, undamaged skin from beneath. The result is brighter, smoother, more even-toned skin.

Is a chemical peel safe for darker skin tones?

Yes — with the right peel selection. Higher-strength TCA peels carry risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in darker skin types.

How long does the peeling last and what does it look like?

Peeling typically begins 2–4 days after treatment and lasts 3–7 days depending on peel depth. Skin sheds in patches — it may look like dry, flaking skin rather than dramatic sheets. This is the natural process of old, damaged cells shedding to reveal fresh skin. Do not forcibly pick — let it shed naturally.

Can I wear makeup after a chemical peel?

Avoid all makeup for the first 24 hours, and only mineral makeup for days 2–5. During the active peeling phase, allow skin to breathe. Once peeling is complete (typically day 5–7), normal makeup use can resume.

What can I not do after a chemical peel?

For 7–14 days post-peel: no direct sun exposure, no swimming pools (chlorine), no saunas, no strenuous exercise. Avoid active skincare ingredients (retinol, AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C) unless directed otherwise. SPF50+ is mandatory every morning — non-negotiable.

Which is better — a chemical peel or Dermapen microneedling?

Different tools for different goals. Chemical peels excel at improving surface texture, pigmentation, and skin tone through exfoliation and cell renewal. Dermapen excels at stimulating deeper collagen production for wrinkle reduction, scar treatment, and skin density improvement. Many patients benefit from alternating both treatments throughout the year for comprehensive skin rejuvenation.

Will a chemical peel help my acne?

Yes — salicylic acid peels are particularly effective for acne-prone skin, penetrating into pores to dissolve sebum and keratin plugs. Glycolic and mandelic acid peels also improve acne through accelerated cell turnover. Multiple sessions are needed for lasting improvement.

How many peels do I need?

A course of 3–6 peels spaced 2–4 weeks apart is recommended for meaningful improvement in most skin concerns. A single peel provides a refreshing result but sustained improvement requires a series. Dr. Bangalee will recommend the appropriate number for your specific concern.

Is there any peel I can have done and still go to work the next day?

Yes — superficial glycolic or mandelic acid peels cause only mild redness and minimal to no peeling. Most patients return to work the next day looking 'refreshed' rather than having visible peel signs. These are sometimes called 'lunch-hour peels' and are ideal for busy professionals.

Can peels help with open pores?

Yes — regular chemical peels, particularly salicylic and glycolic acid peels, reduce enlarged pores by clearing congestion and stimulating the collagen that supports the pore walls. Combined with a retinol home-care programme, pore refinement over 3–6 months is significant and lasting.

Who Is This For?

  • Women and men wanting to improve overall skin texture, radiance, and tone — particularly after sun exposure or a stressful period.
  • Those with sun damage, fine lines, or dull, lifeless skin that doesn't reflect how they feel.
  • Patients with oily, acne-prone skin wanting deep pore cleansing, sebum control, and congestion reduction.
  • Anyone with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or melasma as part of a complete depigmentation programme.
  • Busy professionals wanting a real, visible result without significant downtime.
Professional medical skin peel treatment, Durban North
Dr. Rajeev Bangalee, Director of Star Aesthetic Centre, Durban North

Assessed by Dr. Rajeev Bangalee

MBBCh · Professional Peels is assessed and planned by Dr. Bangalee, and may be performed by a trained assistant under his clinic protocols.

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Professional medical skin peel treatment, Durban North

SKIN & HAIR

Not sure which peel is right for you?

Peel depth and formulation are matched to your skin type and concern. A short assessment determines the right protocol.

Dr. Bangalee Selected

Products for Your Professional Peels Journey

Clinically chosen skincare to prepare, protect and prolong your results — available to purchase directly from our practice.

Immediately after treatment
Home care between appointments — daily use

Medical disclaimer: Treatment results vary between individuals. All procedures are performed by Dr. Rajeev Bangalee (MBBCh), a registered medical practitioner. Information on this page is for educational purposes and does not replace a personal consultation.