PEELS & FACIALS CONSIDERED SKIN MAINTENANCE

FAQ

• Which peel is right for me?

  It depends on the concern. Congestion and breakouts tend to suit salicylic-based peels such as Jessner, or mandelic. Uneven tone and pigmentation typically respond to lactic, mandelic or the brightening range. Texture and dullness suit the Clarifying Mandelic tiers or Lumi Bright. Sensitive and reactive skin is usually better served by an enzyme peel such as A-zyme. Atrophic acne scars — ice-pick and narrow boxcar — may be suitable for TCA CROSS as a focal technique. Your consultation maps concern to peel.

• What's the difference between a peel and a facial?

  A peel is a controlled application of acids or enzymes designed to produce a predictable renewal cycle — that’s where the mild flaking and visible turnover come from. A facial is a multi-step conditioning treatment (cleanse, exfoliate, mask, serum, SPF) with minimal downtime. Our Signature and Power facials sit in the facial category; everything else on the menu is a peel.

• Does it hurt? What does downtime actually look like?

  Superficial peels typically produce a short tingle or warmth on application. Stronger options such as Jessner can briefly sting more. Downtime ranges from a few hours of mild redness (enzyme peels and facials) to visible light flaking between days two and five for the superficial range. TCA CROSS is done point-by-point — each treated scar scabs for five to ten days; the skin around it is left alone. SPF 50+ is non-negotiable for at least four weeks afterwards.

• How many sessions will I need?

  A course of four to six superficial peels, spaced two to four weeks apart, is the usual starting point. TCA CROSS is typically three to six sessions spaced four to eight weeks apart, with results maturing over the following three to six months. Facials are usually monthly maintenance. The right cadence for your skin is decided at consultation.

• Can I have a peel if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

  Most peels are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding — this includes Jessner, salicylic-based peels, TCA and TCA CROSS. Enzyme peels such as A-zyme are generally the most likely to pass clinical assessment, but the decision is always made case-by-case at consultation. We’d rather recommend a pause than proceed where the evidence is thin.

• Can I have a peel while on Roaccutane (isotretinoin)?

  Not during a course, and we apply a conservative six-month washout after finishing Roaccutane for any medium-depth peel or TCA CROSS. Superficial peels may be considered sooner with a proper clinical assessment. Please mention any current or recent Roaccutane use at booking.

• What's included in the price?

  The treatment itself — prep, peel, neutralisation where required, and the recommended post-peel protection on the day. Your consultation is free and separate from the treatment fee. A course of peels is priced per session; we don’t lock you into a pre-paid package before you’ve seen how your skin responds.

• Who performs the peel?

  Every peel at Flourish is performed by our Registered Nurses. We’ve chosen to deliver peels at a clinical standard rather than a salon one — that shapes how your skin is assessed, how the peel is selected, and how a course is planned.

• Do peels work on darker skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)?

  Yes, with careful acid selection. Mandelic, lactic and enzyme peels are generally well-tolerated on medium-to-deeper skin tones. Stronger options and TCA require more conservative protocols because the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation is higher. Your consultation includes a Fitzpatrick assessment as standard.