What is a Chemical Peel Treatment?

At Soak Spa, our highly skilled and licensed estheticians are certified and experienced in using LIRA chemical peels to address a variety of skincare concerns. If you’re looking for a solution to improve skin texture, tone, and overall complexion, a chemical peel facial treatment may be exactly what you need.

What Does a Chemical Peel Do?

Chemical peels offer a transformative skincare treatment by utilizing various types of acids to exfoliate the skin, promote cell turnover, and peel away dead skin cells. This process helps address a range of skin issues, including acne, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, fine lines, and much more. Whether you’re dealing with specific skin concerns or simply aiming for a radiant, youthful glow, chemical peels can offer impressive, long-lasting results.

In this article, we will explore the science of chemical peels in-depth, focusing on the different acids used in treatments, including glycolic, salicylic, lactic, mandelic, and TCA. We will also introduce the innovative LIRA peel lineup, which includes Vitabrite, Pumpkin, Lactic, TCA, and the newly launched Pure Peel. To ensure optimal results, we’ll provide tips on essential pre- and post-peel care.

How Do Acids Work in Chemical Peels?

Chemical peels work by exfoliating the outer layers of the skin by using a combination of acids, which promotes cell turnover and stimulates the growth of new, healthy skin. At Soak Spa, we use Lira Clinical Smart Peels™, which are specially formulated to support healthy skin function. These peels combine active agents with antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, plant stem cells, and other functional ingredients to deliver maximum results.

Lira Smart Peels™ are ideal for all Fitzpatrick skin types and can be customized to address all skin conditions year-round. This flexibility allows our skilled estheticians to tailor peel treatments for safe and effective results, ensuring that every client at Soak Spa in Fort Collins receives personalized care.

Types of Acids Used in Chemical Peels

Each acid used in a chemical peel treatment has unique properties that target specific skin concerns. Here’s a closer look at the most common acids used in our chemical peel treatments and how they work:

Glycolic Acid

Derived from sugarcane, glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) known for its small molecular size, allowing it to penetrate the skin deeply.

  • Benefits: Glycolic acid peels are excellent for improving skin texture and tone, reducing the appearance of fine lines, and tackling hyperpigmentation. They are perfect for brightening and resurfacing aging or sun-damaged skin.
  • Ideal for: Clients looking for a powerful resurfacing treatment to enhance skin radiance.

Salicylic Acid

This beta hydroxy acid (BHA) is derived from willow bark and is highly effective for treating oily skin and acne-prone complexions due to its oil-soluble properties.

  • Benefits: Salicylic acid penetrates oily skin and clogged pores, reducing oil buildup, treating blackheads, and preventing future breakouts. It is a go-to acid for acne treatments.
  • Ideal for: Individuals with acne-prone skin or concerns about clogged pores and oily skin. At Soak Spa, our estheticians are trained in Face Reality Peels, a highly effective treatment for acne.

Lactic Acid

Derived from milk, lactic acid is a gentler AHA that is ideal for sensitive skin.

  • Benefits: Lactic acid peels help improve skin hydration, smooth out fine lines, and brighten the complexion without causing irritation. It’s a top choice for sensitive or dry skin types.
  • Ideal for: People with dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin looking for mild exfoliation and improved hydration.

Mandelic Acid

This type of AHA is derived from bitter almonds and has a larger molecular structure than other AHAs, allowing it to penetrate the skin more slowly and gently.

  • Benefits: Mandelic acid is known for its antibacterial properties and ability to unclog pores, making it effective for treating blackheads, whiteheads, and mild acne. It exfoliates the skin without causing irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Ideal for: Clients with sensitive skin or acne-prone complexions who need a gentler exfoliation.

TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid)

TCA is a powerful organic acid often used for medium to deep peels.

  • Benefits: TCA peels are effective for treating deep wrinkles, sun damage, and scarring by exfoliating multiple layers of skin and boosting collagen production. This makes them ideal for clients looking to improve skin elasticity and reduce significant skin damage.
  • Ideal for: Individuals with more severe skin concerns like deep wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and advanced sun damage.

Pure Peel – Acetic Acid

The latest addition to LIRA’s lineup is the Pure Peel, which features acetic acid as its primary exfoliant. Acetic acid, combined with other powerful acids, offers a comprehensive exfoliating and rejuvenating treatment.

  • Benefits: The Pure Peel targets multiple skin concerns at once, leaving skin clearer, firmer, and brighter.
  • Ideal for: Those looking for an advanced peel that can address a wide range of skin concerns, from texture to firmness.

Pre- and Post-Care Tips for Chemical Peels

To ensure you get the best results from your chemical peel facial treatment, it’s important to follow essential pre- and post-care steps. Here are some tips:

  • Pre-Treatment Care: In the days leading up to your chemical peel, avoid excessive sun exposure and discontinue the use of retinoids or other strong exfoliants. This helps prepare your skin for the treatment and reduces the risk of irritation.
  • Post-Treatment Care: After your peel, it’s crucial to keep the skin hydrated and protected from the sun. Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer, and avoid picking or scrubbing the skin as it heals. Be diligent about applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, as your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays.

Consult the Experts at Soak Spa

Choosing the right chemical peel depends on your skin type and specific concerns. At Soak Spa in Fort Collins, our professional skincare experts are ready to guide you in selecting the best peel for your needs. Whether you’re aiming to clear acne, smooth wrinkles, or brighten your complexion, our team will create a customized treatment plan to help you achieve your skincare goals.

Contact Soak Spa today to schedule your consultation and discover the transformative benefits of a chemical peel facial treatment.