Facial peel info
What do facial peels do?
A: Facial peeling agents resurface the skin by inducing a controlled wound, thus removing superficial layers of the skin. As a result, facial peels promote the growth of a new healthy top skin layer and improve skin problems like hyper-pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven texture, and skin impurities.
What should I expect during the service?
Procedures may vary depending on the type of facial peel chosen. A thorough analysis and intake will be performed to determine if a peel will be safe and effective for your concerns and skin type. Skin is prepped using a cleanser to ensure the treated area is free of any oils left on the skin. The solution is then applied and typically remains on the skin for anywhere from 5-10 minutes. Most clients will feel a tingling (which can vary from mild to strong), which is temporary and will subside after the procedure. Some peels are designed to self-neutralize and may remain on your skin while others will be neutralized during your treatment. The skin may be left slightly pink or red. Your esthetician will work with you to make you feel comfortable before, during, and after your service.
How long is recovery and what type of care is necessary?
Recovery times will vary based on the type and strength of the peel. Immediately after the peel, your skin will feel tight and may be red. Any visible peeling will be light and fluffy and easily controlled with moisturizer. Your esthetician will provide you with specific care instructions. Peeling usually lasts 3-5 days, depending on the actual peel treatment. Use of gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen is important, as it will enhance the healing process and results. Normal activity may be resumed after the peel, however, strenuous exercise and heavy sweating should be avoided for 2-3 days. Sun exposure should be completely avoided while skin is healing; exposure of treated skin to a lot of heat should also be avoided as it may induce swelling, redness and irritation. Peeling skin should be allowed to slough off naturally; picking or peeling of flaking skin is prohibited, as it may lead to scarring. Use of prescription topicals should be avoided as per your healthcare professional's advice. Topical exfoliants may be resumed 2 weeks after your last peel. Waxing should be avoided for 2-3 weeks after your last peel.
Why didn't I visibly peel after my service?
The success of the peel should not be judged by the amount of peeling, but by the end results that the peel produces. The amount of peeling may vary depending on individual skin condition at the time of the peel or the depth of the peel. Regardless of the degree of peeling, the skin is still sloughing off at an accelerated rate, resulting in the improvement of skin tone and texture and an improvement of fine lines and uneven pigmentation.
When can i expect to see results?
Immediately after your peel and after the peeling process has stopped, you should notice smoother, firmer skin that is more balanced and hydrated. Your results will vary greatly depending on your skin concerns, skin type, as well as your proper execution of at-home care. Most clients choose to have multiple treatments spaced out over time for the best results. Peels can usually be repeated every 3 weeks, except for Jessner's, which can be applied less frequently depending in skin type and concerns. Follow the advice of your esthetician.
What Products or procedures should i avoid prior to a peel?
One week before the peel avoid waxing, electrolysis, depilatory creams, and laser hair removal.
Topicals such as Retin-A, Differin, or Tazorac, as well as any products containing retinol, alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), beta hydroxy acids (BHA), or benzoyl peroxide can cause adverse reactions and results. If you are currently using any of these medications it is best to consult your physician or dermatologist for advice.
Topical exfoliants should be avoided for 1-4 weeks before your peel, depending on peel.
Clients who have had any medical cosmetic facial treatments or procedures such as laser treatments, cosmetic fillers or other surgical procedures should wait until skin sensitivity has completely resolved and healing is completed before receiving a peel.
What are the contraindications to facial peels?
Facial peels should be avoided if any of the following conditions are present:
Active cold sores, herpes simplex, or warts in the area to be treated.
Clients who are currently or have recently been taking antibiotics may have to wait to receive their peel (usually 1-4 weeks, depending on peel). Check with your healthcare provider.
Wounded, sunburned, or excessively sensitive skin.
Accutane use within the last year.
Recent chemotherapy or radiation therapy
Allergies to aspirin
Women who are pregnant or actively breastfeeding
Client with vitiligo
Clients with a history of autoimmune disease (such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, lupus, multiple sclerosis etc) or any condition that may weaken their immune system.