Spring Cleaning: Refresh your client’s skin

Spring Cleaning: Refresh your client’s skin

As an esthetician, I personally felt fearful about providing a chemical peel service when I first received my advanced exfoliation certification. I have come to find many others have the same anxiety around chemical peel procedures. Knowledge brings power and that is no different in the world of esthetics. So, let’s talk about chemical peels. 

A chemical peel is a form of advanced exfoliation that removes the first layer of dead skin cells. 

The proliferation of skin cells is 28 to 30 days depending on your age. As we age, the rate in which our skin cells produce slows down, causing dull skin, breakouts and haggard skin. Skin cells don’t always shed off completely. Here is where estheticians and our AHA/BHA pals can do magic. 

What are the benefits of chemical peels?

• Softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Lightens hyperpigmentation
• Smooths scarring
• Boosts collagen production 
• Prevents and clears acne 

What are chemical peels composed of?

Acids!

Intimidating word, right? We start thinking of a scene right out of a movie, a big tub of green acid with bubbles oozing out of it. Not the case at all, in fact many acids are from fruits or plants. Much less scary, right? As estheticians, the peels that we are able to utilize are safe when used with caution and correct protocols. Medical spas who have doctors overseeing the facility may use peels that are targeting deeper layers of the skin, but for the most part, skincare companies have gone to great lengths to provide effective and safe peels. Many lines require insurance to purchase, keeping skincare professionals protected. (Check out our ASCP code) 

Contraindications  

• Sun exposure 
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding 
• Retin-A, retinols, Accutane
• Certain medications/antibiotics
• Sensitive/reactive skin

How do we utilize a chemical peel? 

A few ways!

Spot treating, peel series, 30 minute facials, a full 60 minute protocol, or paired up with manual exfoliation such as dermaplaning. (Check your state guidelines for double exfoliation rules and regulations.) Spot treating is a favorite of mine. When clients come in with hormonal or general acne around the jawline but not necessarily all over the rest of their face, spot treating with Skin Script Cranberry Turnover Peel could be an option based on their skin type. A peel series could be great for those battling extreme acne or if the client is working on anti-aging skin concerns. Thirty minute facials would be ideal if doing a series or a great option to have on your menu as an express treatment. An esthetician could have a 60 minute chemical peel facial, this could include more product, or microderm, dermaplaning, etc. There are so many approaches to how we use chemical peels in our treatment room. The key in choosing the “how” is by client consultation and skin evaluation. See below to download our chemical peel protocols.

30 minutes Glycolic ProtocolDownload

60 minutes Glycolic ProtocolDownload

30 minutes Lactic ProtocolDownload

60 Minute Lactic ProtocolDownload

AHA vs BHA ?

Let’s break it down.

Where to purchase?

With us!

We have a variety of chemical peels to choose from, and you’ll find something for different client needs. If you’re just getting started, try an enzyme to get you comfortable with exfoliation of the skin. Alexander’s Aesthetics is here to help with questions if you have any or need help picking what to add to your back bar.

By Trinnie M., Licensed Esthetician and Educator at Alexander’s Aesthetics