As the air gets cooler and we find ourselves spending less time in the sun, we need to adapt our skin care regiment to the changing environment. One of my favorite times of year as an esthetician is back– peel season! This month at Lake Country Plastic and Hand Surgery, we are focusing on all things peel. So, follow along and see why chemical peels may be the perfect treatment option for your skin.
What are chemical peels?
Chemical peels have been a staple in the skin care industry for decades. These tried and true treatments have earned their place in the treatment room and continue to improve as time goes on. Chemical peels are blends of skin safe acids that loosen the bond between dead or damaged skin cells on the surface layer of skin to have them shed and reveal healthy new skin from underneath. This process helps clear unwanted pigmentation, relieve and prevent breakouts, and refresh the skin for a youthful glow. With modern peels, they can be completed in under an hour and are painless.
Am I a good candidate for a chemical peel?
Chemical peels are a safe and effective treatment for almost all skin types. Anyone from those struggling with teenage acne to those looking for anti-aging treatment can benefit from a chemical peel. When receiving peels, it’s always best to start with a light peel or enzymatic treatment to gauge your skin’s tolerance but once this is complete more intensive treatment can begin. These treatments are perfect for clients who need a quick service and are okay with some post-care. It’s important to avoid the sun for at least 2 weeks after treatment and to let the skin shed naturally. No picking or scrubbing! If you can follow these guidelines, are looking for a minimal pain treatment, and want to see an improvement in your skin health, chemical peels may be the perfect treatment for you! If you’re still unsure book a consultation or signature facial so we can assess your skin and its needs together.
Our peels: The Perfect 10 Peel
Here at LCP, we use the Perfect 10 Peels and love it! This is a modern peel that can encompass multiple concerns in one treatment. These quick and painless peels are completed in just 5 steps. With levels ranging from universal to advanced it’s easy to get started and stay on track with these peels. They are specifically formulated to be gentle but effective, giving you the best experience and results. These professional grade peels offer results in just one treatment and have continued improvement with further sessions.
What to expect during treatment
Once you arrive for treatment it is a simple process. You will be shown to a relaxing treatment room, lie down on the bed, and the peel will begin. For all peels the same five steps are followed, however the solutions do change slightly. For today we will focus on our most beginner-friendly option, the universal peel.
Step one: before applying any active ingredients, the skin must be clean. In this step a cleansing pad is wiped over the entire treatment area to ensure no makeup, debris, or oil is on the skin which could block the peel from proper skin contact.
Step two: this is our primary acid peel application. The peel is applied in thin layers and left on for up to 5 minutes. During this step you may have some tingles or feel some warmth in the skin that will resolve during the next step.
Step three: the primary acid peel is then neutralized. This is done by gently dabbing the acid neutralizer anywhere the peel was applied.
Step four: to boost results an all-trans-retinol complex is then applied to the skin. This step simultaneously boosts peel results and starts to nourish the skin due to its advanced formulation. Like step two, this is also applied in thin layers.
Step five: this step is meant to neutralize and remove any solution still sitting on top of the skin. During this step an antioxidant rich solution is gently wiped across the skin to soothe and protect it post-treatment.
And just like that your Perfect 10 Peel is complete!
Post care / healing
After your treatment it will be important to follow the post care instructions given by your esthetician. After 2-3 days you will begin to see the skin flake. Don’t pick at this- let it shed naturally. While the skin is peeling, avoid exfoliating and stick to a simple routine. It’s most important to keep it clean and hydrated to promote healing. The skin will finish peeling in about 7-10 days. At that point you can begin your usual routine and enjoy your fresh glowing skin!
Special offer
As the weather gets cooler now is the perfect time to treat yourself to a chemical peel. To celebrate peel season at LCP, if you book a chemical peel in the month of November receive a complimentary dermaplane add on. These treatments are some of my favorites to pair because of how well they work together. The dermaplane is the perfect prep for a peel as it boosts results and can cut back on your peeling time.
If you still have questions, reach out! Otherwise, if you are ready to book give our office a call
