Chemical Peels in Luton: Which Peel Is Right for Your Skin?
Chemical peels guide
What does a chemical peel do?
Chemical peels range from gentle resurfacing treatments you can have on your lunch break to intensive programmes for stubborn pigmentation. Choosing the wrong one can mean paying for more than you need, or not getting the results you hoped for. This guide compares the three peels we offer at Skin House in Stopsley, Luton, so you can see which one matches your skin concern, your schedule and your budget.
A chemical peel applies active ingredients, such as acids and enzymes, to exfoliate the skin, remove dead skin cells and encourage cell turnover. Depending on the peel, that can improve texture, clarity, tone and the look of pigmentation. The main differences between peels are how deeply they work, which concerns they target, and how much downtime you need to plan for.
Prices and options
The three peels we offer
From £80DermaQuest peelsEnzyme and acid peels that refine tone and texture, with little downtime. A good first peel.Learn more
From £130Melanostop peelsTargets sun damage, melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation, usually as a course.Learn more
From £950Cosmelan depigmentation peelOur most intensive option for stubborn pigmentation and melasma, with at-home care.Learn moreThe details
What you need to know
DermaQuest peels: for texture, congestion and dullness
DermaQuest peels are our most versatile option. We offer two types: DermaQuest Resurfacers, which are mild, superficial peels that work on the very top layers of the skin, and DermaQuest Chemical Peels, which use acids such as AHAs, BHAs or TCAs.
Good for:
- Dull, tired-looking skin
- Congested or breakout-prone skin
- Uneven skin tone and texture
- Early signs of ageing
- Mild pigmentation and sun damage
What to expect: sessions take 30 to 45 minutes, with mild tingling or stinging during application. Downtime is minimal, making it a good lunchtime treatment. A course of 4 to 6 sessions is typical, and maintenance sessions every 3 to 6 months help keep results going.
Preparation: DermaQuest preparation products must be used for at least two weeks before any resurfacer or peel. This conditions the skin and helps make the treatment safer and more effective.
Price: Resurfacing Peels from £80; Chemical Peels from £130. See all course options on the DermaQuest peel prices page.
Melanostop peels: for dark spots and uneven tone
Melanostop peels are designed specifically for hyperpigmentation. They gently exfoliate the skin and inhibit melanin production, helping to reduce the look of dark spots and give a brighter, more even complexion.
Good for:
- Sun damage and dark spots
- Melasma
- Post-inflammatory pigmentation (marks left after spots or irritation)
- Dull skin and rough texture
What to expect: treatments take 30 to 60 minutes, and you may feel a mild tingling or warming sensation. Downtime is minimal; skin may be slightly sensitive or flaky for a few days, but you can usually carry on as normal straight away. A course of 3 to 6 sessions is typical.
Price: from £130 for one session, or £500 for a course of six.
Cosmelan depigmentation peel: for stubborn pigmentation
The Cosmelan depigmentation peel is our most intensive option for stubborn pigmentation such as melasma and sunspots. It works in two phases: an in-clinic mask that is left on for several hours to inhibit melanin production, followed by a homecare programme using the Cosmelan 2 serum.
What to expect: the in-clinic appointment takes 45 to 60 minutes, then the mask stays on for several hours, so keep that day free of social plans. The next day your skin will look red and plump, which is a sign the skin's natural renewal process has started. Most people return to daily activities after about seven days, though some redness and peeling can continue and full recovery can take up to four weeks. Plan for 7 to 10 days of downtime.
Around four weeks after treatment, you should start to see improvements in pigmentation, texture and tone. Results vary depending on how severe the pigmentation was to begin with, and some clients benefit from follow-up treatments every six months.
Price: from £950 for the One Month System, with a Six Month System also available.
Quick comparison
- DermaQuest: texture, congestion, dullness, early ageing and mild pigmentation. Minimal downtime. 4 to 6 sessions. From £80.
- Melanostop: dark spots, melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation. Minimal downtime. 3 to 6 sessions. From £130.
- Cosmelan: stubborn, deep-set pigmentation. 7 to 10 days downtime. Usually one session plus homecare. From £950.
Compare every facial and peel side by side on our skin treatment price list.
Who should not have a chemical peel?
A peel is not the right choice for everyone, which is why every peel at Skin House starts with a consultation. A different treatment may be more suitable if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding. We offer a modified, pregnancy-safe version of our Fire & Ice Facial that avoids harsh acids and retinol instead.
- You have darker skin and are considering Cosmelan. For darker skin, we offer alternatives such as our Pigmentation Facial, microneedling and bespoke skincare to address hyperpigmentation.
- You cannot complete the preparation. DermaQuest peels require at least two weeks of preparation products beforehand.
- You cannot commit to the aftercare, including daily sun protection, or cannot take the downtime that Cosmelan needs.
Be open with your practitioner about your medical history, medication and skincare routine so they can recommend the right option for you.
Peel aftercare and SPF
What you do after a peel matters as much as the treatment itself. Freshly treated skin is more sensitive, and sun exposure can undo your progress on pigmentation.
- Wear SPF 50 every day. This is essential after Cosmelan and a sensible habit after any peel.
- Use your homecare products as directed, such as the Cosmelan 2 serum, to help prevent new pigmentation forming.
- Let flaking skin shed naturally and follow the aftercare advice your practitioner gives you.
- Keep up maintenance: every 3 to 6 months for DermaQuest, or as advised.
During your recovery, your Skin House consultant or therapist is available to answer questions and check in on your progress.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
How much does a chemical peel cost in Luton?
At Skin House, DermaQuest Resurfacing Peels start from £80, DermaQuest Chemical Peels and Melanostop peels from £130, and the Cosmelan depigmentation peel from £950 for the One Month System.
Which peel is right for pigmentation?
For dark spots, melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation, Melanostop peels are designed specifically for hyperpigmentation. For more stubborn pigmentation, the Cosmelan peel is our most intensive option. Your practitioner will recommend the right one at your consultation.
How much downtime is there after a chemical peel?
DermaQuest and Melanostop peels have minimal downtime, though skin may be slightly sensitive or flaky for a few days after Melanostop. Cosmelan needs 7 to 10 days of downtime, and full recovery can take up to four weeks.
Do chemical peels hurt?
You may feel mild tingling, stinging or warmth during application. Discomfort is generally minimal and temporary.
Do I need to wear SPF after a peel?
Yes. Daily SPF 50 is essential after a Cosmelan peel and a sensible habit after any peel, as treated skin is more sensitive and sun exposure can bring pigmentation back.
Free consultation
Talk it through with our team
Skin House is at 640 Hitchin Road, Stopsley, Luton LU2 7UG, and our clients have given us a 5.0 star rating on Google. Call 01582 424696 to book a free consultation. We will assess your skin, talk through your concerns and recommend the peel, or alternative treatment, that suits you.