Let’s talk intimate peels (because it’s time we did)
Everything you need to know about anal bleaching, vaginal lightening, and the world of intimate peels
Intimate peels. What are they? Who’s having them? Can I get one?
It might not be a subject that’s readily discussed around the dinner table (or maybe it is, in which case we salute you!), but intimate peels are becoming an increasingly popular treatment choice for a diverse range of people, and can provide an incredible boost to confidence for those who feel self conscious about increased pigmentation in intimate areas.
One barrier to some who want to access the treatment is a lack of knowledge about what’s involved and what can be achieved, so we thought it was time to throw off the robe and reveal all about the not-so-scary world of intimate peels.
What is an intimate peel?
First and foremost, let's make sure we’re all talking about the same thing, as intimate peels go by many different names and descriptions, including: bleaching (eg anal bleaching, vaginal bleaching), lightening, brightening. You might also see treatments alluding to skin tone evening, or hyperpigmentation treatment. It can be confusing, and off putting, which is the last thing you need when booking a treatment you might feel a little sensitive about. To be consistent, we’re going to stick with intimate peel, but the terms can be used interchangeably.
Many of us will be comfortable and familiar with the concept of a peel- generally facial- as a treatment option for addressing a variety of skin concerns. An intimate peel is really no different. It’s the application of a specialised solution to an area of skin, to produce a desired effect, which in the case of intimate peels is primarily decreasing pigmentation and improving skin tone and texture. Most peels work by exfoliating the top layers of skin, encouraging cell renewal and creating a brighter skin tone, and some may also inhibit melanin production, reducing the degree of future pigmentation.
We mentioned it above, but it’s worth repeating, the solution is ONLY applied to the skin- no solution should ever be applied to any internal areas as the mucosal surface is much too sensitive.
What areas can be treated with an intimate peel?
We appreciate intimate means many different things to many different people, so it might not be the most helpful name, but areas that can generally be treated with an intimate peel include:
Labia Majora (outer lips of the vulva)
Mons Pubis/Pubic Mound (the fleshy bit just above the genitals)
Perineum (skin between the vagina and anus)
Anal Area (external skin only)
Inner Thighs
Bikini Line
Underarms
Areola (nipples)
Groin Crease
Scrotum (for men, if offered)
Penile shaft/base (external only)
Who can benefit from an intimate peel?
It’s incredibly common to experience increased pigmentation in intimate areas- it can be a result of friction, hormones, hair removal, or simply genetics. While it’s nothing to worry about medically, intimate peels are ideal for anyone wishing to lighten, brighten, or even out uneven tone in these areas.
Intimate peels can be safe and effective for all skin types. There is some science behind the type and strength of peel used, and an expert understanding of how different skin tones will respond to different treatments is crucial in achieving the best results.
There are some situations where an intimate peel may not be able to be performed, such as if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, have an active skin condition in the treatment area (such as eczema or psoriasis), or if you’ve recently shaved or waxed the area. Your clinician should always be able to discuss the treatment fully to ensure it’s appropriate and safe to go ahead.
Are intimate peels safe, and do they hurt?
The answer is all in your choice of clinician! When the appropriate solutions are applied properly, by someone with a good understanding of skin types and skin health, intimate peels are considered very safe.
Some patients may experience a mild warming or tingling sensation, although the majority of patients won’t feel anything. Following the treatment some patients may experience mild inflammation in the treated area (experienced as some redness and occasionally some warmth), which typically self resolves over the following 24 hours.
What can I expect during my appointment?
We know how daunting it can be turning up for a treatment and not knowing what to expect, so here’s what will happen from start to finish during your treatment:
Consultation and skin assessment: Time to discuss treatment goals, your medical history and skin type, any concerns or questions, and explain post treatment aftercare.
Area prep: The area will be gently cleansed and prepped to remove any oils or debris.
Peel application: Careful application of the solution to the treatment area. The contact time varies depending on desired results and skin type, but can range from 30 minutes to a couple of hours.
Aftercare: Following your peel a soothing aftercare product may be applied to protect the skin and aid healing. Depending on the treatment type, there may be at home treatments to use as a follow up to your in clinic treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions needed depends on a few factors, including skin type, level of pigmentation, and the desired result. Session number can also be influenced by the treatment you choose: at Elevate we offer the Dermamelan Intimate Skin Peel, which is typically completed in one treatment with follow up home treatments, in addition to our Elevate Intimate Body Peels.
For most clients a course of 3 to 6 treatments is recommended, spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart to allow the skin time to heal. Some clients will see results after just one session, whereas others may start seeing results towards the end of their treatment course. Once your treatment course is completed, intermittent top ups may be recommended to keep results looking their best.
Can’t I do it at home?
You may be aware of over the counter at home treatments, or even DIY recipes that claim to achieve impressive results. There’s a range of efficacy of these treatments, from completely useless to actively harmful, so we urge you to only pursue treatments performed by trained, professional, aesthetic clinicians.
Popularity of intimate peels is on the rise, and hopefully with it any awkwardness people might feel about pursuing the treatment they want will soon be completely removed. The team at Elevate are always here to discuss any treatments and questions you may have, and to make sure you can confidently get the treatments that make you feel your best self.
Elevate Medical Aesthetics is based in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, and serves the surrounding areas including Leeds, Sheffield, Bradford, Barnsley, Huddersfield and Pontefract. We are a team of passionate and highly trained aesthetic clinicians, who pride ourselves on delivering the highest level of care to our patients. Come see us and experience ‘Harley Street in the Heart of Yorkshire’ for yourself.
Get in touch now to book your free consultation.