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FAQs

Want to know more about the treatments included in the treatment plan? Read on!

I am often asked, Rach, what exactly IS a Chemical Peel?

So I decided to make a FAQs page explaining this and other treatments in more detail. You can then make an informed choice about what is best for you! I will also suggest a course of treatments depending on your skin type, to assist with your particular concerns.

Chemical Peels

So, despite the name, a chemical peel isn't me dousing your face in chemicals! It actually relates to the chemical reaction that takes place within the mask when it is applied to your skin. A chemical peel is a skin-resurfacing treatment that uses a solution of safe, exfoliating acids to remove the outermost layer(s) of the skin. This encourages fresh, healthy skin to emerge—leaving your complexion smoother, clearer, and more radiant. I currently only offer superficial peels.
 

Chemical peels can improve the appearance of:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Uneven skin tone or pigmentation (including melasma)

  • Acne and acne scars

  • Sun damage

  • Dull or rough skin texture

  • Enlarged pores

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Chemical peels vary by strength and depth:

  • Superficial/light peels: Great for mild concerns; no downtime (e.g., glycolic acid or lactic acid).

  • Medium peels: Target deeper pigmentation or texture; a few days of visible peeling (e.g., TCA or salicylic acid).

  • Deep peels: Medical-grade, used under specialist care for significant skin damage.

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What does the treatment feel like? Is it painful?

 

Most clients experience a mild tingling or warm sensation during the peel. Any discomfort is usually minimal and temporary. Deeper peels may feel more intense, but numbing products can be used if needed.

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What should I expect after the treatment?

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Depending on the peel depth, you may notice:

  • Tightness or dryness

  • Mild redness

  • Flaking or visible peeling for 2–5 days

  • Aftercare is crucial: you'll need to avoid sun exposure, heat, and harsh products. Always follow your provider’s instructions.

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How often should I get a chemical peel?

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For best results, peels are often done as a course:

  • Light peels: Every 2–4 weeks

  • Medium peels: Every 4–6 weeks

  • Maintenance: Every few months, depending on your goals

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Who is not suitable for a chemical peel?

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You may not be a good candidate if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Have active cold sores or skin infections

  • Have recently used isotretinoin (Roaccutane)

  • Have extremely sensitive or reactive skin

  • Always book a consultation to assess your suitability.

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Microneedling 

Unlike a chemical peel, microneedling is pretty much exactly how it sounds. It is a minimally invasive skin treatment that uses a device with fine needles to create tiny, controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This stimulates your body’s natural healing response—boosting collagen and elastin production for smoother, firmer, more even skin.

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Microneedling is effective for improving:

  • Acne scars and general scarring

  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Enlarged pores

  • Uneven skin tone and texture

  • Stretch marks

  • Dull or tired-looking skin

It’s suitable for most skin types and tones.

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Is microneedling painful?

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Most people find microneedling to be very tolerable. A topical numbing cream can be applied beforehand to minimise discomfort, but this depends on the device being used. You may feel a mild prickling or scratching sensation during the treatment, especially in bony or sensitive areas. Most people find the forehead and chin the most painful areas.

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What should I expect after the treatment?

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Immediately after treatment, your skin may look:

  • Red or flushed (like mild sunburn)

  • Slightly tight or sensitive

  • Occasionally, light pinpoint bleeding or swelling

These effects are normal and usually fade within 24–72 hours. Visible improvements in skin texture often appear within 1–2 weeks.

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Is there any downtime?

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There’s minimal downtime. Most people resume daily activities the next day, but it’s best to avoid:

  • Heavy exercise or sweating for 24–48 hours

  • Direct sun exposure

  • Makeup for at least 24 hours

  • Active skincare ingredients (acids, retinols) for a few days

Always follow your Esthi's aftercare advice.

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How many sessions do I need?

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Results build over time. For best results, a course is usually recommended:

  • Mild skin refresh: 1–2 sessions

  • Acne scarring or deeper concerns: 3–6 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart

  • Maintenance: Every 3–6 months

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Can microneedling be combined with other treatments?

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Yes! It’s often enhanced with:

  • Serums (e.g., hyaluronic acid, peptides) during treatment for better absorption

  • ​Dermaplaning

  • Skin boosters or mesotherapy

Ask about combination packages if you're looking to maximise results.

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Is microneedling safe for everyone?

Microneedling is generally safe for most healthy adults, but it may not be suitable if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Have active acne, eczema, or psoriasis in the area

  • Have open wounds or skin infections

  • Are on certain medications (e.g., blood thinners or recent isotretinoin)

A skin consultation is essential before your first session.

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Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is a gentle, non-invasive exfoliation treatment that removes dead skin cells and fine vellus hair (peach fuzz) from the surface of your skin using a sterile surgical blade. The result is a brighter, smoother, and more even complexion.

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Dermaplaning can help:

  • Instantly smooth and soften the skin

  • Brighten dull or uneven skin tone

  • Improve the absorption of skincare products

  • Enhance makeup application - excellent if you find your makeup ends up with an uneven application

  • Minimise the appearance of fine lines and pores

  • Remove peach fuzz for a flawless finish

It’s especially popular before events or as a monthly skin maintenance treatment.

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Will my hair grow back thicker or darker?

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No. This is a common myth. Dermaplaning only removes the soft vellus hair on the surface of the skin. It will grow back at the same rate, thickness, and texture as before. It may feel slightly sharp as it grows back.

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Is dermaplaning safe?

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Yes—when performed by a trained professional, dermaplaning is very safe and suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. It’s a quick, painless treatment with no downtime. People can also do this on themselves, however the blades used by a professional are far sharper and more accurate, giving a deeper exfoliation as opposed to an at home treatment.

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Does it hurt?

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Not at all! Dermaplaning is completely pain-free. Most people describe it as a relaxing treatment that feels like a gentle scraping or brushing sensation on the skin. You can often hear a slight scraping noise as the treatment is being performed. This means the correct method and angle is being used.

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What should I expect after dermaplaning?

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Immediately after treatment, your skin will look smoother, feel incredibly soft, and appear more radiant. You might have slight redness for a few hours, but this typically fades quickly.

To protect your freshly exfoliated skin:

  • Avoid direct sun and heat for 24–48 hours

  • Wear SPF daily

  • Avoid exfoliating acids or retinol for 2–3 days

  • Skip heavy makeup for the rest of the day if possible

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How often should I get dermaplaning?

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For best results, dermaplaning can be done every 4–6 weeks. It’s often combined with facials, microneedling, or hydrating masks to boost results.

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Can dermaplaning be combined with other treatments?

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Yes! Dermaplaning pairs beautifully with:

  • Hydrating or soothing facials

  • LED light therapy

  • Microneedling or skin boosters (in a multi-session plan)

It’s also ideal as a prep step before special occasions or photo shoots.

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Who should avoid dermaplaning?

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You should avoid dermaplaning if you have:

  • Active acne or breakouts

  • Skin infections, cold sores, or open wounds

  • Severe rosacea or eczema

  • Recent sunburn or chemical peels

A consultation will help determine if dermaplaning is right for your skin.

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Will there be any downtime?

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Nope—dermaplaning is a zero-downtime treatment. You can return to your usual routine right after, though it’s best to avoid direct sun and heavy products for 24 hours. And always wear your SPF!

Luxury Facial

Although many of you may have already had a facial before, its likely you've experienced a relaxing spa facial rather than a skin specialist facial. Whilst many elements are the same, a facial by an Esthetician includes extractions and will use products specifically targeting your skin concerns.

A luxury facial is an indulgent, results-driven treatment that combines advanced skincare techniques with relaxation. It typically includes cleansing, exfoliation, steaming, extractions, massage, custom masks, and finishing serums—designed to leave your skin deeply cleansed, hydrated, and glowing.

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What makes it “luxury”?

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Beyond the basics, a luxury facial offers:

  • Extended treatment time (60–90+ mins)

  • Customised product selection for your skin type

  • Steam therapy to soften pores and prep the skin

  • Manual extractions to remove congestion and blackheads

  • Facial massage for lymphatic drainage and relaxation

  • Premium serums, masks, and tools (ice globes, LED, etc.)

It’s as much about results as it is about self-care.

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What skin concerns does this facial help with?

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Luxury facials can improve:

  • Dull, tired-looking skin

  • Congested or acne-prone skin

  • Dehydration or dryness

  • Uneven texture or tone

  • Mild sensitivity or redness

  • Fine lines and signs of fatigue

Every treatment is tailored to your individual needs on the day.

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What are steam and extractions, and are they necessary?

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  • Steam softens debris in the skin, making extractions more comfortable and effective.

  • Extractions involve the safe, hygienic removal of blackheads, whiteheads, and other congestion.

While not always essential, they’re particularly beneficial for clients with clogged pores or uneven texture.

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Is it painful?

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Most of the facial is deeply relaxing. You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort during extractions, but this is brief and well-tolerated. We work gently and only extract what’s ready.

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Will my skin be red afterward?

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Some clients experience slight redness after extractions or steaming—especially if you have sensitive skin—but this usually settles within a few hours. We apply soothing masks and serums to calm the skin before you leave.

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How often should I get a luxury facial?

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For ongoing skin health, we recommend:

  • Every 4–6 weeks for maintenance

  • Every 2–3 weeks if working on active concerns (e.g. acne, dehydration)

  • Or as a one-off treat before events or travel

Regular facials keep your skin balanced and glowing year-round.

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Can I combine it with other treatments?

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Yes! A luxury facial can be enhanced with:

  • Dermaplaning for smooth, fuzz-free skin

  • LED therapy to calm inflammation and stimulate healing

  • Chemical peels (if suitable for your skin)

  • Microneedling or skin boosters in a multi-step programme

Your Esthi can help build a custom treatment plan for your goals.

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Is it suitable for all skin types?

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Yes—luxury facials can be adapted for dry, oily, combination, sensitive, or mature skin. During your consultation, we’ll select the right products and techniques for your skin.

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What should I avoid after the facial?

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Aftercare is minimal, but for best results:

  • Avoid sun exposure, saunas, and sweating for 24 hours

  • Don’t use exfoliating acids or retinols for 2–3 days

  • Skip heavy makeup for the rest of the day, if possible

  • Always wear SPF daily

​172 Merthyr Road, Cardiff, CF14 1DL

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