The Ritual Peel Explained
The Ritual Peel:
Best described as Liquid Microneedling (AKA Spicules) are like teeny tiny liquid needles that sink into the skin which then provide exfoliation, enhanced penetration of ingredients that help rejuvenate it at a deeper level and in some studies they’ve been shown to boost collagen production. Typically there are two kinds of spicules in skincare, some are made from different kinds of hydrolyzed sea sponges and others made from crystalized Hyaluronic Acid. I use the kind made from different types of sea sponges that are farmed off of the Japanese coastline. This is a common facial treatment in South Korea and contributes to the “chok chok” look of dewy, lit from within skin that is so prevalent there.
What to expect?
The day of treatment skin will appear pink/red likely for 5-12 hours. It may be a little pink the following day but easily covered by makeup and you can return to activities as you normally would. It’s possible some peeling, flaking and/or dryness will happen due to the type of spicules used. This is a great time to keep skin hydrated and moisturized especially with topical skincare because spicules carry products deeper into the skin making certain products more effective. Treatment also varies by the type of spicules used. After your first treatment we may advance to the 2nd level of spicule peel for those with active acne, scarring and hyperpigmentation, this is a deeper peel and exfoliation that may require some downtime and special care afterwards. A series of monthly treatments is recommended for best results.
Ritual Peel vs. Chemical Peel
It is possible now to upgrade your exfoliation of The Necessities facial to include a hydroxy acid or fruit acid based peel. Chemical exfoliation will increase cell turnover and dissolves mature skin cells from the top layer of the epidermis. The type of exfoliation typically won’t cause major peeling but will dissolve skin cells creating a mild-medium exfoliation. There won’t be downtime and while clients may leave a little pink, they can for the most part, resume normal activities almost immediately after. Although I would advise against any activities that include heavy sweating, such as an intense work out or hot yoga (this goes for the Ritual Peel as well) the day of. The use of sunscreen is also very important after any kind of peel. The difference between these two treatments is Chemical Peels use acids (chemical exfoliants) to exfoliate and increase cell turnover in the skin while the Ritual Peel utilizes spicules to penetrate the skin, carrying topical skincare deeper within and stimulates collagen formation and cell proliferation. With the standard chemical peels there is no sensation left in the skin afterwards, whereas with The Ritual a light tingly sensation can be felt hours afterwards, those are just the spicules doing their thing before they eventually dissolve.
If clients are using Retinoids or regular use of chemical exfoliants at home, it is best to pause using those products 5-7 days before either of these treatments. I still recommend using a lot of caution when it comes to mild-heavy exfoliation techniques as we always want to keep the health of our skin barrier in mind and too much exfoliation can cause more problems in the long run.
The Ritual Peel vs. Facial Massage
The Necessities Facial and The Lymph Drainage Facial focus on face massage and deep relaxation rather than an exfoliating treatment. The Necessities does include light and effective mechanical exfoliation great for all skin types and an upgrade is available for a chemical peel option as well. Facial massage stimulates lymphatic drainage and releases tension in connective tissue. This in and of itself is somewhat detoxifying. Lymphatic drainage bathes cells in fresh fluid and helps prevent stagnation in areas deep within the skin. Facial Gua Sha can promote lymphatic drainage and help release tension. This can reduce puffiness and dullness and over time with regular treatments, help with congested pores. The Necessities Facial has so far been my most booked treatment, the stress reduction, massage and included skincare benefits the mind and body.
More info…
Where to go for services? I’m Lauren, a licensed esthetician located in St. Louis, MO. I work out of a collective called Golden Door St. Louis. To be more exact, we are located in Brentwood, close to hwy 40 and near hwy 44 for a convenient centrally located destination. Please email me at lauren@moonlightrituals.com for any questions or comments you may have. Looking for the spa menu? Click here. I hope to work with you soon!
8920 Manchester Rd. Brentwood MO. 63114