I’ve had alot of clients become very apprehensive when I mention the word peel. I wonder if we have Sex and the City to blame for that one! I want everyone to rest assured that deep phenol peels depicted in the show are rarely performed today and they are one of the top forms of exfoliation offered in a treatment with wonderful results!
Chemical peels are applying fruit based acids to the skin such as, glycolic, salicylic, mandelic, kojic, etc. etc. Most will self neutralize and some can be left on and washed off in the evening or the next morning. The acids are absorbed into the skin and it exfoliates (or peels). You can expect different reactions based on whether you have had a light or medium depth peel. Some may not peel at all but that does not indicate that it did not work. Make sure that you have a discussion with your esthetician to ensure that your peel is customized for you. There is one for almost everyone and that makes you a good candidate! Peels will help treat fine lines, wrinkles, pores, hyper-pigmentation, tone, texture, and hydrate.
The procedure is simple and quick, I love adding them to a facial. Depending on the type, you may experience a little dryness, flakiness, sometimes pink, and it may feel slightly sunburned. No panic though! These side effects will not last long, at most, a few days. The best results, like many other forms of exfoliation, is to do a series of 3 or 4 closer together and then, to maintain the look, include one in a facial. After any form of exfoliating always remember your sunscreen! I don’t want anyone to waste your investment or take a step backwards in your skin goals.
So, go ahead, conquer your fear of the peel!