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How Pixel Peel works
The treatment combines two procedures that we also perform separately in our practice. Each works on a different level of the skin.
Micro-needling
Dermis
They create micro-channels and provide a mechanical stimulus for remodelling. They trigger a repair cascade involving fibroblasts and the synthesis of collagen fibres.
TCA 15 per cent
Epidermis
Trichloroacetic acid works keratolytically, causing controlled exfoliation. It evens out the skin surface and works on epidermal pigmentation.
The treatment on video
The recording shows both parts of the treatment: micro-needling and acid application.
We do not publish before and after material, because without an identical frame, lighting and time interval such a comparison is misleading.
Why we combine two techniques
Because they work on different things and do not replace each other. The peel alone refines the epidermis, but does not reach the layer where collagen forms. Micro-needling alone triggers remodelling, but does not even out the surface the way the acid does.
Combining them makes sense where the problem is two-level: uneven texture together with uneven tone, shallow scars together with post-inflammatory pigmentation. In such situations, two separate series would take more time than one combined series.
The price of this intensity is two days of recovery. For milder problems, we usually suggest a single method, as a stronger stimulus does not automatically mean a better result.
Indications, or what it helps with
The treatment targets mainly epidermal pigmentation, including post-inflammatory pigmentation, and shallow post-acne scars. For pigmentation located deeper and for melasma, a different approach is needed, which we decide after assessing the skin.
The treatment step by step
The order is not accidental: first microneedling, then acid. The procedure itself takes 30 to 60 minutes, and the first visit together with the qualification takes about an hour.
Healing and the two days after the treatment
This is the only treatment in our cosmetology practice after which you need to plan a break. Directly after the visit, the skin is red and slightly swollen, which is an expected reaction. Within a few days, flaking begins.
Throughout this time, a high factor sun filter and gentle care apply. Skin exposed to two stimuli at once is more sensitive to radiation, and a lack of sun protection risks post-inflammatory pigmentation, the very thing the treatment was meant to address.
How many treatments and how often
Typically three to four sessions at intervals of three to six weeks. The range of the interval results from the skin's reactivity, phototype and indication, and the plan can be adjusted after the first visit.
For shallow post-acne scars, combined therapy is used more often, meaning alternating Pixel Peel with another method. Such a schedule is created after assessing the skin, not in advance.
The effect is a process, not something that happens after one visit. What matters is the number of sessions, the breaks between them, home care and sun protection. In periods of high sun exposure, maintenance is usually carried out with gentler methods.
What the treatment will not do
It will not remove deep post-acne scars. For ice pick scars and deep boxcar scars, other tools are needed, most often fractional CO2 laser, performed by a doctor.
It does not tighten sagging skin. Thermal methods work on tightening, for example RF thermolifting.
It does not restore volume. Wrinkles resulting from tissue loss are a task for other methods, discussed with a doctor.
It does not work once and for all. The skin continues to renew itself, and photoageing progresses, so the effect requires maintenance and consistent sun protection.
Contraindications
This treatment combines the contraindications of both component methods, so the list is longer than for a single peel.
A darker phototype requires particular caution here, because the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation is higher. In such a situation, we choose gentler parameters or suggest a different approach. If you are prone to cold sores, it is worth asking about antiviral prophylaxis before the treatment.
The questions we are asked most often
How long does recovery take?
About two days. This is the only treatment in our cosmetology practice that requires it, so plan it so that these days do not clash with work involving contact with people or with an important event.
Why is the treatment performed without anaesthesia?
Because the sensations during the treatment are feedback for the person performing it and allow better control of the process. Say straight away if it becomes too intense, because the pace of work and the acid's exposure time can be adjusted.
Does it hurt a lot?
The sensations are noticeable: a burning feeling after the acid is applied and pricking during microneedling. The treatment takes 30 to 60 minutes and most people tolerate it well, but it is one of the more noticeable treatments in this section.
How many treatments do I need?
Typically three to four, at intervals of three to six weeks. The range depends on the skin's reactivity and phototype. For shallow post-acne scars, combined therapy is used more often, alternating with another method.
Will the treatment remove post-acne scars?
For shallow scars, it can be part of a broader plan rather than a standalone method. Deep scars, especially ice pick scars, require other tools, most often a fractional CO2 laser performed by a doctor. We will discuss this at the qualification appointment.
Can it be done in summer?
We advise against it during periods of high sun exposure. After the treatment, the skin is sensitive to radiation, and the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation increases. During this time, we suggest gentler maintenance methods.
I have a darker skin tone, can I have this treatment?
This requires extra caution, because the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation is higher. In that case, we choose gentler parameters, consistent sun protection, and sometimes suggest a different approach. The decision is made after assessing the phototype.
How does it differ from a regular acid peel?
A peel works purely chemically and acts on the epidermis. Pixel Peel adds a mechanical stimulus reaching the dermis, which makes it stronger and means it requires healing. For milder problems, the peel alone is usually enough.
Can I wear make-up after the treatment?
Not on the day of the treatment, and usually not for the first two days. After that, mineral make-up applied with clean brushes can be acceptable, but confirm this with the person performing the treatment during the final stage of the visit.
I have recurrent herpes, what then?
Report it before the visit. We do not work on active herpes, and with recurrences a short antiviral prophylaxis is sometimes introduced, after agreeing it with a doctor.
Before you decide
Consultation with a cosmetologist
With this treatment, qualification decides everything. We check the phototype, the depth of the scars and the type of pigmentation, because this determines whether Pixel Peel is the right tool, or whether a single method or laser therapy with a doctor makes more sense. We also set a date that allows for two days of healing. The consultation does not commit you to having the treatment.
This material is for information and does not replace a consultation or an assessment of suitability for the treatment.