How much is a chemical peel?

What exactly is a chemical peel and is it as scary as it sounds?

Let’s be real – chemical peel doesn’t sound super friendly. The word “chemical” sounds harsh, and “peel” makes it sound like your face might shed like a snake. But don’t let the name scare you off. A chemical peel is actually one of the easiest and most effective ways to freshen up your skin. It’s not nearly as intense as people think, and with the right care, it can be really gentle – even relaxing.

At Coastal Massage & Spa in Wilmington NC, we offer professional-grade chemical peels that are perfect for people wanting smoother, clearer, brighter skin without the drama.

What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel is a skin treatment where a special solution is applied to your skin to help get rid of dead skin cells. It’s like a supercharged version of exfoliating. The top layer of skin starts to shed off (or flake off lightly), revealing the fresher, healthier skin underneath.

That might sound a bit much, but it’s honestly pretty simple. Your skin goes through a natural renewal process already – this just speeds it up. You’re helping your skin do what it’s already trying to do: renew and glow.

How much is a chemical peel?

Let’s talk price because that matters too.

Our PCA Customized Chemical Peel at Coastal Massage & Spa is $150 for 45 minutes. It includes a full consultation and a peel that’s designed just for your skin. No cookie-cutter treatments here.

PCA Skin has been around for over 25 years. Their products are made by a medical doctor and only used by licensed skin professionals who have been trained and certified. These are high-quality, professional-grade products – not something you’ll find in the skincare aisle at the chemist.

Even if your skin doesn’t physically peel much, the treatment still works. The outer layer is exfoliating, and you’ll still get that glow. The amount of peeling depends on things like your skin type, the peel used, and how many layers are applied. But even without heavy flaking, your skin will feel smoother and look more refreshed.

Why get a chemical peel?

People try chemical peels for different reasons. They’re great for:

Uneven skin tone
Dullness or rough texture
Fine lines and wrinkles
Acne and acne scars
Sun spots and age spots

Even one chemical peel can leave your skin looking brighter and feeling softer. It can also help your other skincare products sink in better since there’s no layer of dead skin getting in the way.

The different types of chemical peels

Not all chemical peels are the same. There are three main types:

Light chemical peel – This is the most gentle option. It only treats the outer layer of your skin and has little to no downtime. It’s great for a quick refresh and good for first-timers.
Medium chemical peel – This one goes deeper and can help with things like pigmentation, mild scarring, and deeper fine lines. You might have a few days of light peeling or flaking afterward.
Deep chemical peel – This is the strongest option and is only used in certain cases. It has a longer recovery time and targets more serious skin issues. It’s not something you jump into without a good chat first.

At Coastal Massage & Spa, we offer PCA Customized Chemical Peels, which can be adjusted to suit your skin type and your goals. Whether your skin is dry, oily, ageing, or acne-prone, we’ll tailor the peel to fit you.

Does it hurt? Will I peel like crazy?

We get this question a lot. A chemical peel might tingle a little, or feel warm on your skin while it’s working – but it’s not painful. We’ll check in with you during the treatment to make sure everything feels okay. Afterward, you might feel a bit tight or dry, and you may see some flaking for a few days. That’s totally normal and just part of the process.

Not everyone peels in a dramatic way, and that’s fine. Your skin is still going through changes underneath the surface. You’ll notice the results in the days after – more glow, better texture, and just an overall fresher look.

What should I do after a peel?

After a chemical peel, you’ll want to keep your skin clean and moisturised. Avoid direct sun, and definitely wear sunscreen (this part is non-negotiable). Your skin will be more sensitive for a few days, so it’s a good idea to skip any harsh scrubs or active ingredients for a bit.

We’ll send you home with tips and aftercare so you know exactly what to do. Our goal is to make sure your skin heals well and looks its best.

How often should I get a peel?

Most people get a chemical peel every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on their skin goals. Some people get them more often when working on acne or texture issues. Others just come in occasionally for a refresh. We’ll help you figure out what works best for your skin.

Why get a chemical peel with us at Coastal Massage & Spa in Wilmington NC?

We’re all about keeping things real and making your skin feel great. No scary stuff, no pressure. Just clean, customised skincare in a calm, friendly space. We take time to get to know your skin, talk through your goals, and give you a treatment that actually works for you.

We only use trusted products like PCA Skin, and we’ve been trained to use them properly. If it’s your first time getting a chemical peel, don’t stress—we’ll walk you through it, answer your questions, and make sure you’re comfortable every step of the way.

So, is a chemical peel as scary as it sounds?

Not at all. A chemical peel is a simple, safe, and really effective way to boost your skin’s glow. It’s not about burning or peeling off layers – it’s about helping your skin look its best in a natural way.

If you’ve been thinking about trying one, we’d love to help. Come see us at Coastal Massage & Spa in Wilmington NCand let’s talk about how a chemical peel can fit into your skincare routine. We’ll make it easy, chill, and totally worth it.

Ready to glow? Book your PCA Customized Chemical Peel today. We’re here to help your skin feel smooth, bright, and healthy!

how much is a chemical peel for ageing skin

Is dermaplaning good for sensitive skin?

If you’ve got sensitive skin, you probably read every product label twice, avoid anything too harsh, and cross your fingers every time you try something new. So when you hear about a blade being used on your face (yep, that’s what dermaplaning is), it’s normal to feel a little nervous.

But here’s the thing – dermaplaning isn’t as scary as it sounds. In fact, it can actually be a really gentle way to exfoliate, even for sensitive skin. You just need the right approach and the right people doing it.

So let’s break it down. What exactly is dermaplaning? Does it hurt? Will your face turn bright red? And can it really help your skin without making it freak out?

We’re answering all of that right here – and if you’re thinking of trying dermaplaning in Wilmington, we’ll tell you why Coastal Massage & Spa is a great place to start.

What is dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a simple skin treatment where a trained pro uses a small, sharp blade to gently skim off the top layer of dead skin cells and fine facial hair (also called peach fuzz). It’s like a super-precise exfoliation. No scrubbing. No chemicals. Just a smooth glide over your skin that leaves it feeling fresh and soft.

Some people call it microplaning or blading, but it all means the same thing. Your skin gets cleaned up, polished, and a whole lot smoother.

dermaplaning for sensitive skin - Wilmington nc

Is dermaplaning safe for sensitive skin?

Short answer: yes, dermaplaning can be safe for sensitive skin. But (and this is important) it needs to be done by someone who knows what they’re doing. That’s where Coastal Massage & Spa in Wilmington NC comes in.

Our team has experience working with different skin types – including sensitive ones. We take the time to understand your skin and adjust the skin care treatment so it’s gentle and safe.

If your skin reacts easily to things, we’ll go slow, use the right pressure, and avoid areas that might be extra touchy. We also use calming products before and after the treatment to help reduce any redness or irritation.

What does dermaplaning feel like?

It’s way more relaxing than it sounds. Most people say dermaplane just feels like a light brushing on the skin. It’s not painful, and there’s no scraping or dragging. Just smooth, soft strokes with a sterile blade.

If you’ve ever shaved your legs and loved how soft they felt afterwards, it’s kind of like that – but for your face, and way more precise.

Why people with sensitive skin like dermaplaning

Here’s why dermaplane can actually be great for sensitive skin:

No chemicals involved – Unlike chemical peels or scrubs, dermaplaning doesn’t use acids or beads to exfoliate. That means there’s less risk of a bad reaction.
Removes peach fuzz – Fine facial hair can trap dirt and oils, and it can make makeup look cakey. Dermaplane clears it off, leaving your skin smooth and even.
Helps products work better – Once that top layer of dead skin is gone, your serums and moisturisers can sink in better. That means you get more out of your skincare without adding extra steps.
No downtime – Sensitive skin doesn’t always bounce back fast from harsh treatments. With dermaplaning, there’s usually no peeling, no flaking, and no recovery time. You can get back to your day right after.

What to expect after dermaplaning if you have sensitive skin

After your dermaplaning session, your skin might be a little pink for a short time, but it usually settles quickly. It’s common to feel extra smooth and fresh. Some people say their skin glows right after – it’s like your skin finally gets to breathe again.

We always recommend using a good moisturiser and sunscreen afterwards. Your skin will be more open to soaking in moisture, but it’ll also be more open to the sun. So don’t skip the SPF.

At Coastal Massage & Spa, we’ll guide you through all the aftercare steps. You won’t be left guessing.

Can dermaplaning cause breakouts or irritation?

If you’ve got sensitive or acne-prone skin, you might be wondering if dermaplane will cause more breakouts. The good news? It usually does the opposite. By clearing off dead skin and peach fuzz, dermaplaning helps keep your pores clean, which can actually reduce breakouts over time.

That said, if you’re in the middle of an active breakout, we may avoid those areas. We want to be gentle and avoid spreading bacteria. Every skin type is different, and we’ll work with yours to make sure the treatment is right for you.

How often should you get dermaplaning if you have sensitive skin?

You don’t need to do dermaplaning too often. Once every 4–6 weeks is usually enough to keep your skin smooth and glowing without overdoing it. That gives your skin time to renew and stay balanced.

At Coastal Massage & Spa, we’ll help you find the right schedule based on how your skin responds.

Why try dermaplaning at Coastal Massage & Spa in Wilmington NC?

If you’re thinking about trying dermaplaning, it’s worth going somewhere that really knows skin. At Coastal Massage & Spa, we take your comfort seriously. We know that sensitive skin needs a little extra care, and we make sure the whole experience feels easy, calm, and safe.

Our space is relaxing, our staff is friendly, and our treatments are customised to your skin—not just a one-size-fits-all deal.

So if you’re ready to try dermaplaning (or even if you’re just a bit curious), book a visit with us. We’ll chat with you about your skin and walk you through everything. No pressure, just real results and real care.

Ready to feel smooth and glowy?

Dermaplaning doesn’t have to be scary – even for sensitive skin. When it’s done right, it can leave your face feeling soft, fresh, and calm. No stinging, no redness that lasts for days – just smooth, happy skin.

Come visit us at Coastal Massage & Spa in Wilmington NC, and we’ll help you get that glow without the guesswork. Your skin will thank you.

Is a chemical peel good for ageing skin?

Short answer: yes.

Long answer: it depends on your skin, but most people with ageing skin will see real results after a chemical peel.

If you’re starting to notice fine lines, rough patches, or uneven skin tone, a chemical peel might be just what your skin needs. It’s not magic – but it does work when done right. Let’s talk about how chemical peels help with ageing skin and what you can expect if you’re thinking about getting one.

What is a chemical peel, anyway?

A chemical peel is a skin treatment that uses a special solution (usually a mix of acids) to remove the top layers of your skin. Sounds intense, but it’s pretty straightforward.

The idea is simple: take off the dull, damaged layer so new, fresh skin can come through. Your skin naturally sheds dead skin cells every month, but as we get older, that process slows down. Chemical peels help speed it up again.

There are different types of peels – light, medium, and deep. Light peels are the most common and have little downtime. Deeper peels go further into the skin and give stronger results, but they need more healing time. Your skin type, concerns, and goals will help decide which one’s right for you.

How peels help ageing skin

As we age, skin starts to change. You might see fine lines around the eyes and mouth, your skin might feel rougher or drier, and you might notice dark spots or an uneven tone. Chemical peels work on all of that.

1. Fine lines and wrinkles

Chemical peels can’t erase deep wrinkles, but they do help soften the small lines that come with ageing. Especially the ones around your mouth, eyes, and forehead. When the outer layer of skin is removed, the body makes new skin cells and more collagen. That’s the stuff that keeps your skin firm and bouncy. More collagen = fewer lines over time.

Light peels and hydrafacials help with surface lines. Medium and deep peels can target deeper lines. But even regular light peels, done over time, can make your skin look smoother and younger.

2. Texture

As you get older, your skin might feel rough or bumpy in spots. This can be from sun damage, dry patches, or just slower skin turnover. Peels smooth that out by getting rid of dead skin and encouraging fresh cells to come forward.

After a chemical peel, most people say their skin feels softer, looks brighter, and has that “fresh-faced” look again. It’s not just about how it looks – it actually feels better to touch.

3. Uneven skin tone and dark spots

Sun exposure, age, and hormones can cause uneven tone and pigmentation – those brown spots or blotches that don’t fade easily. A chemical peel helps fade them by lifting off the layers where pigment builds up. It won’t fix all pigmentation in one go, but it’s a great tool for breaking it down over time.

If you’ve got sun damage, melasma, or dark marks from breakouts, a chemical peel can make a big difference. Consistent skin care treatments, paired with good skincare (and sunscreen!), can really even out your tone.

Bonus: Better product absorption

Once that top layer of dead skin is gone, your skincare products can actually do their job better. Serums, moisturisers, and treatments go deeper into the skin instead of just sitting on the surface.

So if you’ve been using a fancy anti-ageing cream and not seeing results – try pairing it with a peel. You might finally see what the cream is supposed to do.

What kind of peel is best for ageing skin?

That depends on your skin and what you want to fix. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Light peels: Good for freshening up skin, softening fine lines, and evening out skin tone. Little to no downtime. Great for beginners.
Medium peels: Go deeper. Help with deeper wrinkles, age spots, and rough texture. You might have a few days of redness or peeling.
Deep peels: Serious results, but more healing time. Usually only done once. Best for deep wrinkles and serious sun damage.

Most people start with light or medium peels and build from there. You don’t have to jump straight into the deep end.

How often should you get a peel?

For ageing skin, once a month is common for light peels. It gives your skin time to recover and keeps the benefits going. If you’re doing a medium peel, you might only do it every 3–6 months. Deep peels are usually a once-only deal.

Your esthetician or skincare therapist will help set up a schedule based on your skin goals.

Does it hurt? What’s recovery like?

Peels don’t usually hurt, but you might feel a little stinging or tingling during the treatment. Afterward, your skin might be pink or feel tight for a day or two. Then you might peel a little – think of it like a mild sunburn. Some people don’t peel at all, especially with lighter peels.

The key is to follow your aftercare:

No picking
Use sunscreen every day
Stay moisturised
Avoid harsh products while healing

If you follow the steps, you’ll heal up fast and see results quicker.

Who shouldn’t get a peel?

If you’ve got very sensitive skin, active eczema, or rosacea, you’ll want to be careful. Same goes if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or on certain medications like Accutane. Always check with your skincare pro before booking anything.

Also, if you’re out in the sun a lot and can’t avoid it, a peel might not be the best move right now. Your skin will be extra sun-sensitive afterward.

Is it worth it?

Yes, if you want smoother skin, fewer fine lines, better tone, and more glow without jumping straight to injectables or lasers, chemical peels are a solid choice. They’re simple, safe when done by pros, and give real results over time.

It’s not a one-time miracle, but with regular treatments, your skin can stay looking younger, longer.

Book your chemical peel today

A chemical peel is one of the easiest ways to freshen up ageing skin. It helps with fine lines, rough texture, and uneven skin tone. It can soften the signs of getting older and make your skin feel alive again.

You don’t need to go overboard. Even a light peel once a month can keep your skin looking and feeling better. Talk to a skincare professional who knows what they’re doing, and they’ll help you figure out the right kind of peel for you.

And don’t forget the sunscreen. It’s your skin’s best friend – before and after a peel.

How HydraFacial can target your skin concerns

HydraFacial is a popular skin treatment because it works on lots of skin issues and gives quick results – no downtime needed. Whether you’ve got acne, dry skin or fine lines, HydraFacial adjusts to what your skin needs.

What HydraFacial does

HydraFacial uses a special tool that cleans, exfoliates, removes dirt, and hydrates your skin all in one go. It’s made to suit your skin type and concerns. Whether you’re trying to clear up acne, smooth out lines, or just boost your glow, this skin care treatment combines cleansing, exfoliation and hydrating serums to get you looking fresh fast.

Helping with acne

Acne is a common reason people book a HydraFacial. It’s often caused by clogged pores, too much oil, and inflammation. This treatment exfoliates your skin to get rid of dead cells and open up those pores. It also uses salicylic acid to reduce redness and keep oil under control.

HydraFacial pulls out dirt and bacteria while calming the skin, helping it look clear and healthy. If you want long-lasting results, a few sessions spaced out over time can really help.

Helping with fine lines

As we age, we naturally lose collagen, which can lead to wrinkles and lines. HydraFacial helps by using ingredients like peptides and growth factors to boost collagen and refresh your skin.

It also uses hyaluronic acid, which keeps your skin hydrated and plump. You can add extras like LED light therapy to help firm and brighten your skin even more.

Helping with dry skin

If your skin feels dry, flaky, or dull, HydraFacial can help fix that. It gives your skin a deep clean and then fills it up with moisture using serums packed with things like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants.

It also removes the dry, dead layer on top of your skin so the good stuff soaks in better. After the skin care treatment, your skin feels soft, smooth and looks way more alive.

woman getting a hydrafacial in Wilmington nc, coastal massage and spa

HydraFacial for sensitive skin

If your skin gets red or irritated easily, you might be nervous about trying new treatments. The good news is, HydraFacial is gentle enough for sensitive skin. It doesn’t use harsh scrubs or strong chemicals that can cause flare-ups. The suction used to clean the pores is light but effective, and the serums are packed with soothing ingredients like antioxidants and peptides. These help calm the skin while giving it a proper clean and boost of hydration.

Because the treatment is customisable, the person doing your facial can adjust it to be even gentler if needed. That means no burning, stinging, or downtime. Just fresh, clean skin that feels calm and happy. It’s a great option if your skin usually reacts to other treatments, or if you just want something that won’t mess with your skin barrier.

HydraFacial before a big event

Got a wedding, party, or special day coming up? HydraFacial is a great way to get your skin looking clear and glowing, fast. One of the best parts is there’s no recovery time. You can get a HydraFacial in your lunch break and head straight to your event with skin that looks fresh and healthy.

The results are instant – smoother texture, brighter skin, and less puffiness. Makeup sits better too, since your skin is properly hydrated and clear of dry patches. If you can, get the treatment a few days before your event so your skin has time to settle and really shine. Some people even make it a regular thing, booking one every few weeks to keep their skin in top shape. It’s an easy way to feel a bit more confident before stepping into the spotlight.

Customised for your skin

One of the best parts about HydraFacial is how custom it is. Whether you want help with breakouts, ageing, dryness or anything else, the treatment can be adjusted to match. Your esthetician will choose the right serums and boosters based on your skin.

There are different levels of HydraFacial – from the basic version to ones that include LED light or lymphatic drainage. You can pick the one that suits you and your skin goals.

Other things it helps with

HydraFacial can also work on uneven skin tone, dark spots, and large pores. The exfoliation part helps brighten your skin and reduce discolouration. It also smooths your skin and makes it feel more balanced.

For big pores, HydraFacial clears them out and tightens the skin, making them look smaller. It’s a solid all-rounder for better skin texture and tone.

Why people love it

There’s no downtime, which means you can get back to your day straight after your treatment. Results show up right away – perfect before a big event or just when you want to feel good.

It’s gentle enough for all skin types and works well whether you’ve got oily skin, dry skin, or anything in between. The mix of cleansing, exfoliating and hydrating leaves your skin feeling clean and glowing.

Book your HydraFacial

Want clearer, smoother, more hydrated skin? HydraFacial might be what you’re after. At Coastal Massage & Spa, we offer different HydraFacial options depending on what your skin needs.

Book your HydraFacial today and leave feeling fresh and glowing. Our friendly team will look at your skin, figure out what works best, and get you sorted with a plan that works.

12 Realistic New Year’s Resolutions We Know You Can Keep

New year, new you! We’ve all heard the mantra and we’ve all made attempts – but let’s admit that a “new you” is hard for anyone to accomplish. You start the year strong, but within a few weeks, you’re more discouraged than ever…and that is no way to start a new year! Sometimes, starting with small changes will yield the biggest changes of all.

We have a list of very realistic and rewarding resolutions that will promote a positive mindset, self awareness, self acceptance, and grow relationships. Some are simple and silly and they might not be as lofty and exciting as “get in bikini shape by the end of March,” but they are much more appropriate for your busy lifestyle. And we know that nothing makes us feel better than actually achieving our goals.

How many of these realistic New Year’s Resolutions will you keep?

I will cut out at least one series of The Real Housewives

Garbage in, garbage out right? While it may me too much to ask to remove your TV entirely from your home, resolve to reduce the amount of mindless drama you consume. And if you’re feeling really ambitious – say “bye bye” to the Kardashians too!

I resolve reduce takeout orders to once a week.

While this one step will not get you “bikini ready” it will get you on the right track to making smarter decisions regarding what you put in your body. Take out and fast food is full of extra calories, fat, sodium, and less nutrients than the same foods prepared at home.

I resolve to work on breaking a nasty habit.

Especially if this habit happens to be detrimental to your health, mindset, or well being. Make your mind up to squash a nasty habits once and for all. You don’t have to quit them all at once…for now, just pick one. You can do it!

I resolve to spend less time feeling disappointed when I look in the mirror and more time feeling fabulous.

When you look yourself in the mirror, stop focusing on what you don’t like and take a minute to verbally tell yourself how awesome you are. Vocal, positive affirmations are proven to make you feel more confident, happy, and energized. We believe in you, and you should too!

I resolve call my parents more often.

More often is different for everyone. If you’re already talking everyday, then this resolution isn’t for you. It is if you only wait for your parents to call you or only call them with you need something. “Just because” calls will have a positive impact on you, the ‘rents and your relationship. Put a reminder on your calendar every so often to call Mom and/or Dad. These don’t have to be hour long conversations- just check in and share something that happened or just see how their day went. You only get one set of parents, so make them a priority.

I resolve not get suckered into another “cleanse” or crash diet.

Crash diets and cleanses just don’t work. If you’re drinking a juice cleanse in addition to three balanced meals each day, then great! Juice it up. But if the juice is taking place of food, your insides will be frightened and shocked and will ultimately hate you. Just don’t do it.

I will find a workout I don’t despise.

Exercise can be fun! Resolve to pick up a new way to move your body in 2016. Take a dance class, join a club sport, or walk in a beautiful part of town.

I resolve to finish a Pinterest project I pinned last year

Pinterest can make anyone feel like a failure. I mean, how does anyone have the time and patience to create a sweater for their dog? Instead of spending hours pinning projects to endless boards, pick one that you know you can finish. It will feel great!

I resolve to do one thing that takes me out of my comfort zone.

Attend an event where you don’t know anyone, enroll in a course you’ve been interested in, call that friend you haven’t seen in years, ask for a new responsibility at work. Take a leap and commit.

I resolve to say “no” and not feel bad about it.

Just because you’re asked to do something, doesn’t mean you have to. Knowing when to say “no” or “no thank you” is about setting boundaries with what you know you have time and means to do without sacrificing yourself or other things you care about. Setting boundaries is not something to feel guilty about, it can actually be very empowering.

I resolve to reward myself…often.

We recommend taking time away from media to relax and reflect. We also know a great place to get a massage, facial, or body treatment.

See related: 8 Relaxing Things to Do In Wilmington You Probably Haven’t Thought of

I will stay in as often as I’d like.

It’s OK to skip the party or night out. Spending an evening catching up with loved ones by phone, writing a letter, reading a book, or taking a bath are perfectly acceptable ways to spend an evening.

These realistic resolutions will have you feeling great about yourself and your life in 2016 – which will you do first?