The Complete Chemical Peel Guide
Chemical peels are one of the most effective treatments in the professional beauty world. The myths surrounding peels in pop culture (hello Samantha in SITC) have led to some popular misconceptions. Let’s alleviate the anxiety of booking a peel series as we share what to expect with the sensation, downtime, and overall process for chemical peels.
Initial Consult: Asking the Right Questions
Q: Am I a good candidate for a chemical peel?
A: During the consult, your esthetician will determine if a series of chemical peels makes sense for your specific skin concerns. We also taken into consideration your current routine, treatment history, and skin type.
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.
Q: Which chemical peel should I get?
A: We currently offer the Clear Skin Peel, Brightening Peel, and Healthy Aging Peel from Sorella Apothecary. Our online booking makes it convenient to review service descriptions and request a certain peel; however, your esthetician may advise you an another option should there be a better fit for your skin concerns.
Q: When should I book a chemical peel?
A: 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.
Beginning Your Journey: The Peel Process
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
Top Asked Peel Questions from Clients
Q: What other treatments can I add on to my session?
A: We recommend keeping your first peel appointment without any add-ons so you can experience the sensation of the peel by itself. Adding on dermaplaning is a great option for those who are regular peel clients because stacking the manual and chemical exfoliation together can lead to wonderful results.
Q: What downtime can I expect with a peel?
A: Your skin immediately after the peel will likely be glowing with a slight tight/firm appearance. The next day you may start to feel some dryness.
Days 3-5 will oftentimes have the most visible dryness with any flakiness present during this time. We recommend a simple skincare routine with no exfoliation during this time. It may also be wise to avoid setting powders as this can ____ the appearance of dry patches.
Whether or not your get physical peeling is completely up to your skin type and routine. Remember that physical peeling of the skin is simply a side effect of the peel, not a measure of results.
Q: I’m nervous. What will it feel like?
A: With any first experience, it’s okay to have a little apprehension. Do know that our peel formulas are self-neutralizing and performed in layers. Our estheticians will be communicating with your the entire session while the peel is on and also be providing a fan therapy to calm the skin.
Get started on your peel journey with us at The Village Spa! You can call us at (317) 853-6350 or request online 24/7.