Chemical Peels 101

Written by: Samantha K. Paris

When you first hear the words "chemical peel", most people think of bright red skin, peeling for days, or hiding out at home. The truth? Most modern chemical peels are much gentler than people think. They're actually one of our favorite treatments for achieving healthier, brighter skin.

At Storybook Salon, our licensed master estheticians customize every peel to your skin's needs. Whether you're struggling with acne, dark spots, dull skin, or simply want a healthy glow, we have options that can help. We're continuing to expand our peel offerings and bring in even more advanced treatments as to serve all guests and all skin concerns.

So, What is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a professional treatment that uses carefully selected acids to gently exfoliate the outer layers of the skin. Don't let the word chemical scare you. These ingredients are specifically formulated to encourage healthy skin renewal by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. As your skin sheds those dull, damaged surface cells, healthier, fresher skin is revealed underneath. It's like hitting a reset button for your skin.

Do You Always Peel?

No!

THis is probably the biggest misconception we hear. Many people assume that if they don't pee; dramatically afterward, the treatment didn't work. That's simply not true. Visible peeling is not what determines whether your peel was effective.

Some people experience light flaking for a couple days. Some notice a little dryness. Some don't visibly peel at all, but still see smoother texture, brighter skin, and improved tone over the following days.

The real work is happening beneath the surface as your skin increases cell turnover.

Are Chemical Peels Safe?

Absolutely! ... When performed by trained professionals.

Before your treatment, one of our licensed master estheticians will evaluate your skin and discuss:

• Your skin concerns

• Your current skincare routine

• Any medications or ingredients you're using

• Your goals

• Which peel is the best fit for you

When choosing your peel, your esthetician is trained to know which peels contain which ingredient, and what that ingredient is used for. Most chemical peels are made with natural fruit acids, which have interestingly enough been used in the skincare world since Ancient Egypt! Peels using a synthetic acid rather than fruit acids, are tested before being sold only to licensed spas, not to the public.

Chemical peels also range in how deeply they penetrate the skin. They range from superficial, just barely penetrating the stratum corneum, to deep (penetrating below the epidermis). At Storybook Salon, we never use deep peels. We play a game that is low and slow, and allows your skin to do some of the work on its own as new skin cells and collagen reproduce.

Not every peel is appropriate for every person, which is why we customize your treatment instead of taking a one-size-fits-all approach.

What Skin Concerns Can Chemical Peels Help?

Chemical peels can improve many common skin concerns, including:

• Acne and Clogged Pores

• Acne Scars

• Hyperpigmentation

• Sun Spots

• Uneven Skin Tone

• Fine Lines

• Rough Texture

• Dull Skin

• Overall Brightness

They're one of the most versatile treatments available because they help improve the overall health and function of your skin, not just one specific concern.

What to Expect

At Storybook Salon in Lynchburg, Virginia, all facial treatments are customized to provide a relaxing experience that still delivers results. Your treatment will go as follows:

1. Thorough skin analysis and consultation

2. You'll get nice and cozy in our warmed facial bed

3. Your esthetician will come back into the room once you're ready and get started with a double cleanse. You get to lay back and enjoy the ambiance of our dimly lit facial room, the relaxing sound machine, and a trained professional cleansing your skin.

4. Your esthetician will do any pre-treatment needed, and will check in with your comfort along the way.

5. The chemical peel is applied. Some are applied in layers while others are applied for a specified amount of time. Once ready, the peel is removed.

6. Your service provider will now do any post-treatment necessary for your skin after your peel has been removed.

7. You will be sent home with specific care instructions and you will be followed up with by a member of our team to insure your comfort and maintenance.

The Treatment Plan

Everyone's skin is completely different and that is important to remember. That's why we customize every single treatment we offer, and your plan is customized around you. While some people may only need 2-3 chemical peels to start seeing results, others will need 6 treatments to see their optimal skin coming through. Your esthetician will not only go over the full treatment plan with you during your first visit, but will also help you schedule next appointments, choose products that work with the plan, and adjust anything needed along the way.

Ready to Benefit from a Chemical Peel in Lynchburg, VA?

We're ready to book your first treatment. Contact Storybook Salon at 434-941-2361 and let's get your treatment plan started.