Facials, Peels, Waxing . . . Oh My!

Recently I've been taking photos to show off my newly grown, long, thick Revitalash eyelashes. To help me see how long they've actually gotten I've been looking at old pictures to compare with the new ones. (You'll see some attached.) There's no doubt my lashes are ridiculously long! The difference is amazing! But even more noticeable is the dramatic change in the appearance of my skin.

I guess it shouldn't surprise me. I've been diligently peeling my skin once a week for a couple of months. It should look smoother, wrinkles should be diminished and noticeable damage from the sun should be lessened. It just took me by surprise to see the improvements so plainly.

What is peeling? A peel is usually a liquid emulsion of vitamins, acids and other ingredients that work together to target problem areas of the skin. One might fight signs of aging, another might be better at fighting acne.

Peels are different than facials as facials typically replenish and balance the skin while peels are usually harsh and are meant to knock the skin off balance When the skin's pH gets thrown off due to a peel it'll have to rebalance itself and that's when the magic happens.

A good dermatologist or esthetician will always follow a peel with a soothing, calming, nourishing mask that tells the skin, "Sorry. I know that was mean, but you'll thank me for it later. Just take a deep breath and rest for now."

Speaking of good estheticians, I can diagnose your skin to determine if a peel is right for you, and if so, what kind would be best. Call or email me anytime for a consultation. In the meantime, here's a list of peels I offer at Mercer Island's Sugar & Swank Skincare Spa.

(Or visit http://www.besugarandswank.com/bepampered/index.html#exfoliate for even more information.)


The Blemish Banishing Peel: The lactic, salicylic and alpha hydroxy acids in this peel help heal and reduce acne in several important ways. First the acids cleans out the pores. Then they sit in them so no other bacteria can. They also help rejuvenate the skin cells to help with scarring. While these acids may be naturally harsh, the Blemish Banishing Peel is stocked with anti-irritants that soothe the skin, as well.

The Peel Off the Sun Damage Peel: This Vitamin C infused peel directly targets skin that's showing signs of sun damage. Freckling, wrinkles, patchy discoloration. You know what I'm talking about.

The Good Ole Glycolic Peel: Probably one of the most common peels, glycolic acid does a really good job of keeping acne at bay, diminishing fine lines and wrinkles and even getting rid of sun spots.

The Genesis Peel: This non-acid peel doesn't sting, but is still chock full of amazing ingredients that effectively resurface the skin and transform the skin's texture.


The Enzyme Peel: A simple, mild peel that eats away all the bad stuff and leaves all the good stuff.

You'll notice the results of a peel right away. Your skin will glow. Then, over the next couple of days, your skin may peel. (A-Ha! That's why its called a peel!) The bad stuff will literally slough off and that's when you'll really see results! During this period the skin will need your help in getting it to rebalance. You must slather on tons of moisturizer (and sunscreen because you'll be extra sensitive to the sun) to replenish what its lost.

I suggest doing a series of peels. After the 3rd you'll really start to see dramatic results that last. Sugar & Swank offers a peel package - a series of 6 for $330. The price is the same as the price of a facial package so that the peels can be interchanged with a facial if we decide your skin needs a break.

Oh - don't schedule any facial waxing when you're planning a peel. Bad idea! Obviously any other body waxing - bikini, arms or legs - would be fine.

Hope to see you soon! And when you come in remind me to do a before and after picture so you can see the results for yourself. It really is mindblowing!