Chemical peels have a reputation for being a women's treatment. They're not. Men's skin — typically thicker, oilier, and subject to daily shaving — develops its own set of concerns: uneven texture, congestion, post-shave pigmentation, dullness, and the early signs of ageing. A well-chosen chemical peel addresses all of these directly.

Here's what you need to know.

What Is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel uses an acid-based solution applied to the skin to accelerate cell turnover. The solution loosens the bonds between dead skin cells, causing the outer layer to shed over the days following treatment. Underneath, fresher, smoother skin is revealed.

The depth of the peel — and therefore the intensity of the results and the recovery — depends on the formulation used. At Refine Clinic, we use professional-grade formulations selected specifically for your skin type and concerns.

What Can a Chemical Peel Treat?

Uneven skin texture. One of the most common concerns in men. Rough, bumpy or congested skin responds well to regular peels.

Dullness. If your skin looks flat or tired, a peel removes the layer of dead cells that's dulling the surface and restores radiance.

Post-shave pigmentation. Ingrown hairs and repeated shaving can cause dark spots and uneven tone, particularly on the neck and jaw. Peels containing azelaic acid or alpha-arbutin are particularly effective here.

Acne and congestion. BHA (salicylic acid) peels penetrate the pore and clear congestion from the inside. They're highly effective for men prone to breakouts.

Fine lines and early ageing. AHA peels stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity over a course of treatments.

Back acne and body skin. We offer chemical peels for the back — a common concern for men who experience breakouts or rough texture in this area.

The Formulations We Use

We select from a range of professional formulations based on your skin assessment:

• AHA (glycolic, lactic) — surface exfoliation, hydration, fine lines
• BHA (salicylic) — congestion, acne, oily skin
• Mandelic acid — gentler option, suitable for sensitive or darker skin tones
• Azelaic acid — pigmentation, redness, post-inflammatory marks
• Alpha-arbutin — brightening, uneven tone
• Vitamin C — antioxidant, brightening, collagen support
• Peptide-based — anti-ageing, firming

The Algae Peel: A Gentler Alternative

For men who prefer a non-acid approach, we offer the Algae Peel — a marine-herb exfoliation treatment that supports skin renewal without the intensity of a chemical peel. It's a good starting point for men new to skin treatments or those with more sensitive skin.

What Happens During a Peel?

Your appointment begins with a thorough skin assessment. Your practitioner selects the appropriate formulation and applies it to the treatment area. You may feel a mild tingling or warmth — this is normal and settles within a few minutes.

The solution is left on for a set time, then neutralised and removed. A soothing serum and SPF are applied. The whole appointment takes around 50–60 minutes.

What to Expect Afterwards

Mild redness and tightness are normal for 24–48 hours after treatment. Over the following 3–7 days, you may notice some flaking or peeling — this is the old skin shedding. Do not pick or peel it manually.

Avoid retinol, exfoliating acids and active skincare for 48 hours after treatment. Use SPF daily — your skin is more photosensitive after a peel.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

Many men see visible improvement after a single session. For more significant concerns — pigmentation, acne scarring, uneven tone — a course of 3–6 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart is recommended.

Intimate Area Peels

We also offer a specialist intimate area brightening peel for men — designed to address uneven pigmentation in the pubic area, genitals, and anal area. This is a clinical treatment performed in a fully private room with complete discretion. A patch test is required before the first session.

Is a Patch Test Required?

Yes — a consultation and patch test (£20) must be completed at least 24 hours before your first peel. This is credited towards your first treatment.

Booking

We're based at 66 Nile Street, London N1 7SR. Book your consultation and patch test online to get started.