Chemical Peels
And don’t forget to check out these Chemical Peel Packages
What is a chemical peel for?
The basic answer: a chemical peel will increase the rate of exfoliation while ingredients soak down and make the new skin healther.
The in-depth answer: Different chemical peels are created using different ingredients to achieve many different skin goals. If you are seeking help with symptoms of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines, or need help with acne, hyperpigmentation, dullness, or overall skin health, there is a peel or advanced treatment made for you. Contact the spa with any questions, and we will find the best service to reach your skin goals.
What does a chemical peel service include?
After you lie down on the heated table, your esthetician will glide your hair back and wrap it back. I, being your esthetician, will begin with a first cleanse to remove any makeup or surface grime, rinse, then cleanse your skin once more with a foamy face wash and remove it with a warm towel. Extractions will be performed as needed, and then a custom mask will be applied with a mask brush. As the mask sits, you will receive an arm and neck massage. After removing the mask with a different warm towel, I will degrease and prep your skin for the peel by applying a toner and ask your skin sensitivity to said toner. With a go-ahead, the first layer of the peel will be applied with a cotton square in gloved hands. You will be fanned, then the skin sensitivity will be gauged again. These steps will be repeated as necessary. Following the peel, post-procedure products will be applied, such as a serums that work toward your skin goals, a calming cortisone cream, moisturizer, eye cream, and most importantly, SPF. After you’ve gotten up and dressed, we will go over aftercare, and I will hand you a post-procedure kit of products to use for the days following your treatment.
What can I expect after my peel?
You may experience some redness or flushed skin after your peel, with peeling occurring 4-8 days post-peel. It is best to avoid scheduling a professional chemical peel before a special event; it is best to leave a 10-day or more gap before your event since you will experience some down time. But the results will be worth the wait! As the skin sloughs off, you will see how clear, soft, and glowy your skin looks. If you can, try to let the peel and products sit overnight before washing your face; though, if this feels like something you cannot do, try to wait at least 4 hours before washing your face or wait to do it before bed.
How can I prep for a peel?
No Broken Skin
If you’ve ever gotten lemon juice in a paper cut, you know it’s unpleasant. If you have any broken skin in the area you’ll be getting a peel, it will feel similar. Either wait for it to fully heal, or let your esthetician know to avoid this area with the peel.
Prevent Sun or Wind burn
Any sort of compromised skin, whether is a cut or burn, will lead to a less enjoyable experience with a chemical peel. However, with a sunburn, you can damage your already injured skin. Your skin will be trying to heal the sunburn, and by performing a chemical peel during this process, it can lead to hyperpigmentation, further burning, or irritation. Always wear a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher everyday to protect your skin, and wear hats and other sun protection when possible.
Hydrate and Moisturize
If your skin is dry, tight, or flaky, you may experience more discomfort during or after your peel. Keep your skin hydrating by drinking water; your skin the last organ to get ingested water, so be sure you’re drinking enough. Also use a moisturizer twice a day to ensure your skin is ready for its treatment.
Do not use Exfoliants or Active Ingredients
Temporarily discontinue any exfoliants at least 2 days before your peel. This can include Retinols, Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, or mechanical exfoliants such as a scrub, Dermaplane, Microdermabrasion, or waxing.
How do I care for my skin post-peel?
Don’t Pick at your skin
Around day 3 after your peel, you may notice some sloughing. This usually starts around the mouth, as we talk and that skin moves the most, then it will work its way to the perimeter of the face over the next few days. Shedding is normal and allows the healthy skin to come to the surface. Avoid any temptation to pick at this skin, as this can cause hyperpigmentation. If there are any larger pieces of skin, you can trim them with small sterile scissors. It is also possible you may not experience any peeling; this is also normal and does not mean the peel didn’t work.
Avoid Potential Irritants
While you can apply makeup after a peel, it is best to wait at least 45 minutes or longer. The longer you can wait the better. If you do apply makeup, make sure your brushes are clean and you are being as careful as possible not to introduce bacteria to this area. In fact, try to touch your face as little as possible after a peel (and in general) so there is less bacteria coming into contact with your skin. Avoid hot and cold water, and only use the post-procedure products your esthetician gives you to ensure your skin is hydrated and healing. Also avoid Retinol or other active ingredients for at least 10 days.
No Exfoliating
Don’t use any scrubs or chemical exfoliants for 7-10 days, this includes a washcloth or other mechanical exfoliation. This can cause irritation to your already-exfoliating skin, as well as dryness.
Keep Cool
Avoid activities that increase your body temperature for at least 2 days post-peel. This can include exercising, hot showers, swimming, steam room/sauna, and spending time in direct sunlight. Make sure you wear SPF, and it is always best to wear a hat as well to keep your face from the sun.
Avoid Further Procedures
Wait until your skin has fully healed before getting additional treatments such as lasers, microdermabrasion, waxing, or injectables.