With 29 years of experience in the beauty industry, Ruimsig’s Rachel Rodrigues surely knows all the ins and outs of facial treatments. We had a quick chat with her to find out what chemical peels are and who needs them.
What is a chemical peel?
Peels remove the outer layers of dead skin, revealing a new skin layer with improved tone, texture and colour. A series of peels can help treat a range of skin issues. They are very popular because they offer nearly immediate results and can be performed during a lunch break. I think chemical peels are great, and I’m not saying that just because they are part of my repertoire as an aesthetic therapist. I like to think of them as a reboot for your skin, allowing healthy skin to appear.
Who is a good candidate for a chemical peel?
Anyone wanting to alleviate acne, smooth wrinkles, improve skin texture, eliminate age spots and reduce the effects of sun damage can benefit from having a chemical peel.
What should you do before having a chemical peel?
People who get cold sores should start on antiviral medications one week prior to treatment and continue taking these for two weeks after therapy to prevent reactivation of the cold sores. All patients are encouraged to use high SPF sunscreens prior to and after peeling. Those with darker skin may also require pre-treatment to avoid hyperpigmentation.
How many peels would I need?
Generally, it is best to get a peel every four to six weeks. But if you suffer from acne there are some peels that you can do every two weeks until you get the results you want. It is a great idea to buy a series of four or five peels up front so that you can achieve the treatment results that you want.
What can you expect?
The skin may feel warm directly after your treatment. Depending on the peel that you have had you might experience some superficial flaking that could last for two to five days. It is essential to stay out of the sun
during and after the healing process as the skin may remain sun-sensitive for some time after the peel.
The possible complications?
Although rare, the complications of chemical peels include scarring, infection, reactivation of herpes simplex infections and post-traumatic hyper-pigmentation.
Always do your research before you have more advanced treatments. Check that the products being used are of a high standard and a recognised brand. Don’t be scared to ask questions, because you are placing your best feature in the hands of someone else. Always ask for relevant qualifications before receiving treatment. All too often we see that unqualified people are passing themselves off as therapists without the relevant training or experience.
Details: Heaven on Earth – Skin, Body, Laser Studio on 011 662 2473 or visit them at Ruimsig Country Office Park on Hole-in-One Avenue.
Rachel is giving away two chemical peels valued at R480 each to two readers. To enter, visit Facebook (Get It Joburg West), like the competition post and you’ll be in the draw. Entries close 23 August.
Text: JACO-MARI FUTCHER. Right hand page image: RIALIEN FURSTENBERG
