Ready, Set, Peel!
At Skin Brilliance Aesthetics Specialty Studio, we pride ourselves on being experts in chemical exfoliation. Chemical peels help promote collagen and elastin production and bring forward fresh vibrant skin.
A chemical peel is a cosmetic treatment that involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells, revealing smoother and more youthful-looking skin. Chemical peels can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, acne, and uneven skin tone.
There are three types of chemical peels: superficial, medium, and deep. Superficial peels use a mild acid, such as alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) or beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), to exfoliate the outermost layer of skin. This type of peel is generally safe and can be done at home or at a salon or spa. Medium peels use a stronger acid, such as glycolic acid, Jessner’s acid or trichloroacetic acid (TCA), to penetrate deeper into the skin and remove more layers of dead skin cells. This type of peel is typically performed by a licensed skincare professional such as a Skin Brilliance Aesthetics studio. Deep peels, such as VI Peel, use a powerful acid, such as phenol, to deeply penetrate the skin and remove several layers of skin cells. This type of peel is the most aggressive and requires a longer recovery time.
Before undergoing a chemical peel, it is important to consult with a licensed aesthetics professional to determine the best type of peel for your skin type and concerns. Skin Brilliance licensed professionals will provide instructions on how to prepare your skin for the treatment, such as avoiding sun exposure and certain skincare products in the days leading up to the peel.
A chemical peel treatment usually takes less than 25 minutes and is often referred to as a ‘lunch time treatment’. During the peel, a degreasing agent is applied, followed by a peel prep to decrease the pH of the skin. Then the desired chemical peel agent is applied to the skin and left on for a specific amount of time before being neutralized and removed. Once the peel agent is removed, a Skin Brilliance Skin Therapist will apply a hydration mask and infuse it deep into the skin utilizing a galvanic machine followed by a relaxing scalp massage. The treatment ends with a specialized serum to target acne, rosacea, brightening or aging concerns.
After the treatment, the skin may be red and peeling for 3-7 days, and it is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your Skin Brilliance Skin Therapist, such as avoiding sun exposure and using gentle skincare products.
Recovery time varies based on the peel type, strength and your skin type. A variety of different chemical peels are offered at Skin Brilliance. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) work from the ‘inside- out’ and often have little to no down-time or peeling side effect. These peel types assist with tissue regeneration. Beta Hydroxy acids (BHA’s) work from the ‘outside-in’ and generally a peeling side effect can be anticipated. Peeling is merely a side effect of the treatment and is not associated with effectiveness of the peel. Chemical peels prompt new tissue growth and exfoliation occurs naturally by this process regardless of visible peeling side effects.
Overall, chemical peels can be an effective way to improve the appearance of the skin, but they should be done under the guidance of a licensed professional and with proper preparation and aftercare to ensure the best results and minimize the risk of complications.
Generally, a series six of chemical peels spaced two weeks apart yield most desirable results. Monthly maintenance thereafter will help keep your skin healthy and beautiful. A home care regimen consisting of a daily retinol, vitamin C serum and hyaluronic acid should be used daily once you recover from the peel in 3-7 days. Contact a Skin Brilliance near you to learn more about a chemical peel skin care plan that will help you bring your best face forward!
Contact us today to begin your skincare journey!