Chemical peels are one of my most favorite facial treatments, especially when combined with light therapy! They sound pretty scary though right? Well, you needn’t be scared, in fact, they are amazing. I’ve written below the most commonly asked questions and hopefully, I can banish the fear about peels…
How does a peel work?
Chemical peels work in two phases firstly removing the dead skin ‘burnt toast’ on the surface, this is referred to as chemical exfoliation. And secondly by delivering the active ingredients into the deeper layers of the skin to give a long-term result to your living cells.
Is a peel suitable for sensitive skin?
It depends on the individual case. I always believe in getting your skin into good health with a great home care regime first. Maybe starting with a mini facial to get to know your skin before you have a peel and so that we can tailor your homecare regime to best complement your professional treatments. Sensitivity can sometimes occur because of the wrong skincare and treatments being used in the past.
What happens during a peel treatment?
At SKIN lounge we choose to use the incredible Alumier MD professional peels. The process of an Alumier peel is very different to the standard skin peel. Alumier peels are incredibly indulgent and relaxing, while not compromising on results. We start by cleaning and preparing your skin ready for the first peel step, our pre-peel mask. With a choice of four unique treatment masks to choose from, your therapist can really custom make your facial experience. Then comes the main event, the peel itself. Unlike other peels, the Alumier Glow peel has a waterlike texture, that we apply to the skin very methodically and thinly. This is not a rushed process due to the peel being self-neutralising (we don’t wash it off.) Depending on the sensation and skin response to the peel, depends on how many layers of the peel we will apply. Once the optimum result has been achieved from the peel process we move on to the final peel step – the cherry on the cake, the post peel booster. The booster I normally use is the Vitamin A boost, it’s insanely anti-ageing and skin brightening, it really finishes off this already incredible facial treatment. To end the treatment we apply some recovery balm to hydrate the skin and apply a generous amount of SPF.
What will a peel do for my skin?
Peels treat a multitude of skin issues very gently and quickly and have incredible instant and long-term benefits for the skin. They brighten, hydrate, soften lines and wrinkles, de-pigment, deep cleanse, soften scaring and exfoliate and bring an overall radiance and health, to even the loveliest of skin.
Are there different types of peels?
Yes, and they come in varying strengths to target different layers of the skin. A light peel is the most superficial, working in the epidermis (upper skin layers) this has a potential social downtime of up to a couple of days. A medium peel works slightly deeper and has a downtime of 2-4 weeks. A deep peel works the deepest but has downtime of up to 3 months. At SKIN lounge we work with light to medium strength peels the average social downtime is up to 7 days, which generally looks a little dry and flakey and is not normally very dramatic.
What is downtime?
This can be shown on the skin with redness, swelling, skin shedding/flaking and tightness. The severity varies from person to person and the depth of the peel. Most of my clients see very little to none of these symptoms at all after a light peel.
How soon until I can go into the sun?
At least two weeks before sunbathing and two weeks after. The reason for this is that a peel removes the dead layer on the top of the skin and could make it more sensitive to sun exposure if it were too soon. After sun exposure your skin is more sensitive generally and could cause a longer downtime after your peel. Also, we do not want to damage this amazing skin that we have worked so hard to achieve!
Can I meet friends for lunch after my peel?
Yes! Some people find that the skin can be a little red for an hour or two after treatment but usually no more than a normal facial. You can apply a good quality mineral foundation straight after your peel if you prefer. A skin peel really is a fantastic option for a lunchtime treatment.
How long does a peel take?
Around 45 munites to 1 hour. You can have this incredible treatment during your lunch break!
How many peels do I need to get results?
One to 6 usually depending on what skin condition you have. Once weekly light facial peels for 6 weeks is the equivalent of a medium strength peel. However, most of my clients will have a skin peel monthly to boost and maintain a healthy skin regime.
Do I need to maintain a peel?
Ideally once a month, this will not be a chore you will look forward to the monthly maintenance treatment!
Do I need to do anything special after my peel?
It’s best to avoid exercise and wearing perfume near the area for 48 hours after your treatment. With your Alumier peel you will receive a post-procedure kit that will contain all of your skincare for the following five days post peel.
Are there any other treatments that complement a peel treatment?
Dermalux LED phototherapy!!! It is the perfect complement to a peel, killing acne bacteria, repairing old cells and stimulating new cells. The two treatments together are the perfect marriage.
In summary, peels are:
- Instant
- Deeply penetrating
- Long lasting
- Intensely brightening
- Suitable for most skin types
- Affordable
- Quick and lasting results!!!
This is my skin after a very intense peel – the strongest that we can offer. Looks a little pink, but man it looks alive! I love the results that I get from peels. I cannot imagine life without them 🙂