Welcome to The Contour Edit, where we delve into the world of skincare and unveil the secrets to achieving radiant, youthful skin. Today, we're shining a spotlight on a skincare treatment you've heard of time and time again – the chemical peel.
WHAT ARE CHEMICAL PEELS?
Chemicals peels can address a spectrum of facial concerns - from active acne to age spots, wrinkles, and sun damage. These peels, tailored to your unique needs and skin analysis, involve the use of various acids to lift and shed outer skin layers breathing new life into your skin, offering a rejuvenated and youthful appearance.
Delving into the layers of the skin, chemical peels have a targeted impact on both the visible outer layer, known as the epidermis, and the underlying dermis. The epidermis is the surface layer, while the dermis, situated just beneath, houses essential components like nerve endings, sweat glands, and hair follicles.
In the realm of chemical peels, our procedures are designed to remove a controlled amount of skin cells from the epidermis. For those seeking more intensive outcomes, a stronger peel may also influence a small portion of the dermal layer. Rest assured, at Contour Collection, we prioritize not only the aesthetic results but also the safety and well-being of our clients.
However, it's essential to recognize what chemical peels cannot achieve. They won't reduce blood vessel appearance, change pore size, remove keloidal scars, or provide a facelift. Additionally, certain skin types may not benefit from this treatment for dark skin discoloration.
WHAT KIND OF CHEMICAL PEEL IS RIGHT FOR ME?
Choosing the right chemical agent depends on the desired peel depth. Mild or moderate peels work on the epidermis and superficial dermis, offering a safer option with fewer long-term side effects. Deeper peels, delving into the reticular dermis, may permanently lighten the skin, necessitating careful consideration due to potential complications.
Another important consideration is downtime. The intensity of the peel directly correlates with the recovery period. Mild peels typically involve minimal to no flaking or peeling. A moderate peel might lead to 3-5 days of flaking, while deep peels could entail flaking or peeling persisting for up to two weeks. It's crucial to factor in this downtime aspect when deciding on the depth of your chemical peel, aligning it with your lifestyle and preferences.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR A CHEMICAL PEEL?
Before your peel, it's important to minimize sun exposure as much as possible and prioritize the daily application of sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to safeguard your skin. Additionally, discontinue the use of Retinol one week before your scheduled peel. Refrain from using facial exfoliants, exfoliating brushes or scrubs, peel pads, AHA products, and BHA products during the week leading up to your peel.
WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE LIKE?
Your treatment will begin with a thorough skin cleansing followed by the application of the chosen chemical peel solution, adjusting the process based on the depth of the peel. During the treatment, you may experience a tingling sensation as the acids penetrate the skin. We offer cooling measures for your comfort, and after 4 minutes, we remove the acid and assess if another layer of acid is warranted.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FOLLOWING TREATMENT?
Immediately post-treatment, anticipate redness, tenderness, and potential mild swelling. Specific aftercare instructions are provided based on the peel type. While some effects, like dryness and flakiness, may occur in the first few days, the deep peel's signature peeling typically happens between days three and four. Allow this process to unfold naturally, refraining from picking at the skin.
As your skin heals, you might observe significant improvements, including reduced age spots, wrinkles, and sun damage. Light peels generally heal in about a week, while medium and deep peels may take two weeks or more. Throughout the healing process, protect your skin with broad-spectrum sunscreen and avoid makeup until given the green light.
As for downtime, most people can resume their normal activities the next day, following some simple aftercare instructions provided by our professionals (and outlined below):
For the next day: avoid exercise
For the next 7 days: moisturize often, cleanse gently and always wear SPF, avoid excessive heat/sweating, hot tubs or saunas, avoid harsh or active ingredients in your skin care products (ie. avoid AHA, BHA, retinols, glycolic acid, benzyl peroxide, differin and other exfoliating products)
For the next 10 days: avoid intense sun exposure
For the next 2 weeks: avoid picking at the peeling skin
For the next 6 weeks: do your best to avoid sun tanning and/or sunburns following a chemical peel
Results vary based on factors such as age, skin condition, and the peel's intensity. Many of our clients love the outcomes and often schedule follow-up sessions to achieve their ultimate aesthetic goals. If you have any questions or concerns, our team at Contour Collection is here to guide you through the entire journey.
HOW MUCH DO PEELS COST?
Mild: $150
Medium: $200
Deep: $250
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Improved Texture: Chemical peels help in removing dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover, and leaving your skin with a smoother texture.
Even Skin Tone: Say goodbye to uneven pigmentation! Chemical peels can lighten dark spots and hyperpigmentation, providing a more even skin tone.
Reduced Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Stimulating collagen production is a key benefit of chemical peels, leading to a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.
Minimized Pores: For those struggling with enlarged pores, chemical peels can help tighten and refine them, giving you a more refined complexion.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
When you choose a chemical peel at Contour Collection, you're not just opting for a treatment – you're investing in a luxurious experience. Our boutique aesthetics practice in Denver, Colorado, provides a serene and welcoming environment where you can relax and rejuvenate.
If you have any questions about Chemical Peels, we are here to help! You can reach us at (720) 629-8921, or you can book a New Client Consultation to learn more. We're happy to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the process.