Chemical Peels: Everything You Need to Know

September 19, 2024 Chemical Peels, Facials

Chemical peels are one of the most effective treatments in the professional beauty world. It’s also one of the most misunderstood by consumers:

“Will I be too red from a peel?”

“How much will my skin actually shed?”

“Are the chemicals safe for my skin?”

We understand that chemical peels come with their misconceptions. Let’s alleviate the anxiety!

When you book a chemical peel at our Carmel day spa, here’s what to expect with the sensation, downtime, and overall process.

Why Should I Get a Chemical Peel?

As we age, our skin cells do not regenerate as fast as they did in our teen years. Collagen production also decreases every year after we reach about 25 years of age.

A chemical peel is a higher concentration of a particular acid or blend of acids than you would see in your typical over-the-counter exfoliants. Peels are beneficial as they are collagen inducing and work to increase the cellular turnover, thus improving skin conditions like:

Aging – fine lines, wrinkles
Texture – pore size, scarring, inflammation
Hyperpigmentation – acne marks, sun damage, discoloration

Initial Consult Questions

Am I a good candidate for a chemical peel?

During the consult, your esthetician will determine if a series of chemical peels makes sense for your specific skin concerns.

In general, most peel formulations are not recommended for those who are pregnant or nursing. Darker complexations can take advantage of chemical peels as advised by their esthetician, but may have some skincare routine adjustments to make before safely starting a peel series.

Which chemical peel should I get?

If you have never been to our spa before, we suggest starting with a day spa facial first. Our esthetician can consult you about any adjustments needed to your routine while considering the ideal treatment series for your skin type.

We offer two types of chemical peels:

Level 1 – a professionally recommended selection of either a brightening peel for those with sun damage or gentle, acne focused peel for those targeting inflammation
Level 2 – A TCA formulation designed to resurface the skin, promoting advanced healthy aging results

When should I book a chemical peel?

We recommend booking peels from September to end of April. The aftercare process involves minimal exposure to the sun, so scheduling peels in the fall/winter provides the best results.

If you’re wanting to enjoy the benefits of a chemical exfoliation year-round, your best option is our Lactic Peel Boost, which can be added on to facials, such as a Classic Facial or Dermaplane Facial.

Treatment Expectations

PRECARE

We recommend discontinuing the use of topical prescriptions or products containing Retinol one week prior to treatment.
Do not receive Botox or fillers one week prior to treatment.
Avoid excess sun exposure that could result in a burn.
Do not wax, receive laser hair removal or electrolysis, or use depilatory creams.

TREATMENT

Bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with you.
Avoid wearing makeup prior and after your visit.
Avoid exfoliating in your morning routine.
Your service will consist of a cleanse, prep solution, and layers of the peel as determined by your esthetician. We include a cooling hydrojelly mask in every Clear Skin Peel, Brightening Peel, and Healthy Aging Peel.

AFTERCARE

For the next 3 days avoid the following:

Avoid sun exposure
Do not raise your body’s internal temperatures (avoid hot showers, hot tubs, and excessive workouts)
No waxing or hair removal
Do not use any exfoliation products
Reapply SPF every two hours when outside