Go To Guide For Chemical Exfoliation

Here at Complexions Spa, chemical exfoliation is one of our most popular services that is essential for maintaining and restoring your skin health and improving the appearance.  Peeling the skin is not a new procedure, in fact it has been used for decades dating back to Egyptian times to reveal healthier skin.   Today the belief that more aggressive peels give the best results does not hold true any longer due to the extended down time and the greater risk of complications that can transpire as a result.  At Complexions, the approach we suggest is to first properly prepare the skin for a minimum of ten days to support the peeling process and increase results.  

Sex In The City - Samantha After Chemical PeelRemember Samantha’s chemical peel disaster on Sex in the City? The one that had Samantha hiding under a black veil and matching hat, hoping to shield the world from her irritated, red, peeling face? Yes, that scene. Just hearing the words “chemical peel” can be a little intimidating for most, and can stop people from exploring this amazing skincare option. It’s time to demystify the “scary” chemical peel and learn the true benefits of this treatment.

To start, we have selected what we feel to be the best chemical peeling options. We use several different formulations in different concentrations to address a variety of skin conditions ranging from acne, rosacea, enlarged pores, hyperpigmentation and wrinkling caused by aging and environmental damage. These can range from AHA’s, BHA’s, TCA and enzymes. Selecting the appropriate solution to address the different conditions, will gently slough off the damage, dissolve oil, and stimulate healthier cell renewal revealing a clearer, smoother more radiant complexion.

Chemical peeling, also known as chemical exfoliation, is a very effective treatment for creating beautiful skin anywhere on the body including the face, hands, neck, chest, shoulders, back, and arms.  It removes dead skin cells, reduces uneven pigmentation, increases hydration, diminishes large pores and softens the appearance of fine lines and rough texture.  Contrary to popular belief, these light to medium chemical peels performed persistently over an extended time period, as opposed to an aggressive deep peel, requires minimal down time and can achieve greater results.

The application of the peeling solution can produce a slight tingling sensation and some redness, similar to a mild sunburn which typically disappears within a few hours. However, in some cases it can last longer. Within a few days, you will likely experience some dryness followed by fine, mild flaking. You will experience minimal irritation and virtually no down time while seeing maximum results. Your skin will look more radiant, luminous, and less likely to show signs of discoloration and other imperfections.

Areas that can be treated includes:

  • the face
  • hands
  • neck
  • chest
  • shoulders
  • back
  • arms
  • legs

What it can do for your skin:

  • eliminate dead skin cells
  • reduces uneven pigmentation
  • increases hydration
  • unclog pores
  • minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores
  • softens the appearance of fine lines and rough texture

Types of Chemical Exfoliation

There are many different types of exfoliating and peeling agents ranging from fruit enzymes, such as papaya which decompose a layer of dead skin, to commonly used acids like Alpha Hydroxy and Beta Hydroxy Acids such as lactic, glycolic, and salicylic acid. All peels come in varying potency and PH which increases or decreases penetration and irritation.Each of the solutions loosen the dead layer of skin, causing it to shed. This controlled injury also stimulates cells to produce more collagen and elastin restoring the skin’s texture, improving tone and evening out color. Our collagen and elastin is what gives our skin a full, youthful appearance.

To see the best results—and keep those results—consistency and commitment are very important. It is recommended to have a minimum of a six peel series performed every 2-3 weeks, depending on personal skin conditions. While you work your way through the series of peels, your esthetician will provide constant consultation, evaluation and customization of the solutions based on your results. Once your initial series of peels are completed, maintenance peels should be done every 4-6 weeks. or facials that incorporate fruit enzymes to help provide continued improvement and long lasting results.

You will experience minimal irritation and virtually no down time while seeing maximum results. Your skin will look more radiant, luminous, and less likely to show signs of discoloration and other imperfections.

To further the results and success of your chemical peel, a physical exfoliate can be used in conjunction with a chemical exfoliant. Physical exfoliants include Dermaplaning and Microdermabrasion. Adding a physical exfoliant into your treatment regimen can increase the penetration of your chemical peel, thus making is more effective.

One of the most important factors to achieving successful results, with any type of treatment, is to work with an experienced, well-trained esthetician. Estheticians help you get the most out of your chemical peel by providing a thorough consultation. Your esthetician needs to know your goals, your current skincare routine and any other procedures that you’ve had done. Telling your esthetician this background information is essential; they will assess all these factors, and then decide what peel is right for you, and how deep that peel should penetrate. Estheticians perform light to medium penetrative peels, while deeper peels that reach the dermal layer should be performed by a medical doctor.

To learn more about chemical peels and how to start your journey to radiant skin, call or stop into either spa location and speak with one of our knowledgeable spa professionals.