Frequently Asked Questions

 
 

How much discomfort should be expected when having a facial peel?

The level of discomfort experienced depends on the treatment. Most chemical peels are gentle and create little or no burning or stinging sensation in the skin. Dramatic wrinkling, sun damage or acne scars may require a deeper peel, which may cause moderate stinging for a few minutes. More dramatic results can be expected from a deeper peel, however deep peels are not necessary for most skin types and conditions. Her approach is to use a low-dose technique where superficial chemical peels create minimal discomfort and produce beautiful and immediate results for most patients.

Should people who are frequently in the sun receive peels?

Yes, but only if they use sunscreen protection every day. Sunbathing should be avoided directly following a treatment and while the skin is peeling. If you are getting peels to lighten the skin, it is imperative to use sunscreen that is at least SPF 30. Avoid unnecessary sun exposure to reduce any chance of further hyperpigmentation.

In Seattle, the summertime can create a lot of sun exposure — more than we may realize after months of rain and clouds. If you travel a lot, then you are also probably receiving frequent sun exposure.

Which facial peels may be used on someone who exercises frequently?

Someone who is active may have any peel, but all peel patients must wait 48 hours after a treatment to exercise that produces perspiration as it may feel uncomfortable. If this is not an option, Bethlehem will create a custom solution using a Non-Burning Facial Peel or Intensive Vitamin C infusion. These treatments use Ultra Peel® II Exfoliating Treatment which is an acid-free retinol cream. Its delayed flaking action will not cause irritation or downtime, and leaves the skin glowing and hydrated. Make sure you tell Bethlehem if you need to perspire before your facial treatment so she can select the best custom solution for you.

Will a facial chemical peel make thin skin even thinner?

Absolutely not. Dry skin is partially the result of dead cell buildup which actually hinders natural exfoliation as well as the absorption and penetration of vitamins and nutrients. Having a PCA Professional™ chemical peel will remove surface buildup, hydrate the skin and give it a plumper and “thicker” appearance. The use of topical vitamin C and peptide products in a treatment, as well as in your daily care regimen will help build collagen in the skin, thus making it stronger and more durable.

Which washes your face better: creme/gel, oil cleansers, or facial wipes?

Definitely creme or gel cleansers, then oil-based cleansers, and definitely not facial wipes. Here is why:

  • Facial Wipes
    You know those nights when you’re just too exhausted to remove a full face of make-up? Seems to be the perfect time to just rub a make-up remover wipe across your face. Although these cleansing wipes can remove some of your make-up, they’re not removing as much as you think. Wipes actually just smear the dirt, bacteria, oil and make-up across your face. They break down some of the debris, but don’t remove it all. Then, the buildup gets stuck in your pores. Although wipes may be faster to use, you are more inclined to miss a spot and sleep with make-up on, which can lead to breakouts. Plus, wipes are packed with ingredients like Specially Denatured (SD) Alcohol 40B and Denatured Alcohol, which evaporate quickly and can dry out your skin

  • Oil-based Cleansers
    Oil-based cleansers can attract, deconstruct and dissolve layers of oil-soluble substances like excess sebum (oil), waterproof make-up, environmental pollutants and residual product buildup. The cleanser melts into skin, dissolving buildup in hard-to-reach crevices around your nose or in between eyelashes – places a wipe just can’t properly cleanse.

  • Creme or gel cleansers
    Cleans the most while being gentle on the skin.

How soon will I start seeing results from using premium skin care products that Bethlehem offers?

Immediately to four weeks depending on your skin’s condition. Some people see results the first time they use the products, and everyone tells us that their skin feels different straight away. The skin feels, clean, smooth, hydrated, and reflects a new level of health that's visibly noticeable.

If the skin has more advanced long-term needs, such as treatment of skin aging, acne or hyper-pigmentation caused by hormonal fluctuations or sun damage, results may not be immediately visible; however, skin health will continue to improve as you follow the advice of your professional skin therapist, and your home care regimen.

What are the long-term benefits of using these premium skin care products?

The self-confidence and self-esteem that comes from taking care of your skin translates into your whole life. Slows down aging and plain and simple – healthy skin. Skin is the largest organ in your body and it is critical to take care of it. Skin speaks — it says who you are. Premiums  uses ingredients designed to help keep skin at an optimal level of fitness – not just cover up with cosmetic results. But don’t get us wrong: a benefit of healthy skin is skin that looks its best! In addition, when skin is at an optimal level of fitness, your professional skin therapist can more effectively address issues that may arise from time to time, as your skin’s needs are constantly changing.

Why do I need a professional skin therapist?

For the same reason doctor and dentist check-ups are necessary: for better health!

Skin is a living part of your body (your largest organ, in fact), that defends against environmental assaults and extreme temperatures. It helps eliminate toxins from the body. It heals from cuts, abrasions and scratches like a champ. It’s continually renewing and protecting. Simply put, skin keeps the bad stuff out and the good stuff in. So why do you dote more on your hair and nails – two items on your body that aren’t actually living? Your skin needs personal attention from a professional.

Where are  products I use made?

PCA SKIN: R&D, product development and quality assurance processes are above and beyond industry standards. Our formulas are researched, designed and executed by our in-house PhD chemist. We address each skin condition holistically, with products combining the newest and most efficacious ingredients paired with proven, tried and true ingredients to create unparalleled, visible results. We have a solution to address a wide variety of skin types and conditions. Made in Scottsdale, Arizona.


Dermalogica: We are proud to make all our products in Southern California. Having our manufacturing facilities so close to our headquarters allows us to maintain a superior quality standard and level of oversight, and also support the local economy. Made in Southern California, Dermalogica is sold in over 80 countries around the world.

[ comfort zone ]: was conceived in Parma, Italy, in 1996 as the skincare division of Davines Group, a family-owned company still in the caring hands of the Bollati Family. What began as a research laboratory and manufacturing site for the development of high-quality formulas has grown into an internationally awarded and distributed professional range of spa treatments and home care. The evolution of [ comfort zone ] rests in the vision and scientific background of the President Dr. Davide Bollati, pharmacist and cosmetic chemist, who has always valued extensive and constant research to support his commitment to excellence

To schedule an appointment or a customized skin consultation, please contact Bethlehem at 206-403-1278.