How to Apply a Chemical Peel
Clients seeking a chemical peel want a trained professional to help them achieve healthy, clear skin. If you’re interested in providing exfoliation services and training, this is one important technique that can help clients achieve younger, smoother skin.
What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is the application of chemicals that cause a layer of skin to blister and peel off, revealing younger, healthier skin underneath.
Chemical peels can:
- Reduce lines and wrinkles around the mouth and eyes
- Help with certain acne problems
- Improve the look and feel of skin
- Reduce facial blemishes like scars and age spots
Chemical peels vary depending on the depth of the skin that is affected. Different chemical peels require different treatments. Here are the basic steps to take when applying most chemical peels.
1. Advise the Client on What to Do Beforehand
Prior to the chemical peel, your client should stop taking any tretinoin-based acne treatments like Retin-A for at least a week in advance. These products can easily irritate the skin, which can make the chemical peel less effective or potentially more painful for the client.
The client should also exfoliate their face with a mild facial cleanser 24 hours before the chemical peel.
2. Prepare the Client’s Face
Before applying any chemicals, make sure the client’s skin is cleansed and clear. Use water and a mild cleanser so you don’t dry out t he client’s face. Afterwards, apply an astringent like witch hazel or a chemical product to constrict the facial muscles in preparation for the peel.
3. Apply the Chemical Peel
Using a cotton swab or cotton ball, begin applying the chemical peel to the less sensitive areas of the face, such as the forehead, cheeks, and chin. Moving in even strokes, proceed to the nose, neck, and lower eyelids. Make sure your application is even and smooth.
4. Let the Peel Set
Most peels should remain on the skin for one to two minutes. Watch your client’s face closely. A slight burning or tingling sensation is normal, but if the client feels any intense burning or frosting sensations, remove the peel immediately.
5. Neutralize and Remove the Peel
Most peels require a neutralizing agent to stop the peeling. Apply this agent to your client’s face to stop the burning process. Some peels can be washed off without requiring a neutralizing agent—just make sure you know which type you’re using before you start.
6. Provide Follow-Up Instructions
All peels, no matter how deep, require follow-up treatment. Whatever type of peel you perform on your client (superficial, medium, or deep), make sure to give adequate instructions about what type of face wash to use and how to stay out of the sun to prevent scarring or infection post-treatment.
If you’re interested in booking a chemical peel appointment at our esthetician schools in Ontario, contact our medi-spa clinic today.
Canadian Beauty College also provides a non-vocational certificate in chemical and mechanical exfoliation. Contact us today to request information about upcoming courses.