ZO 3-Step Peel: Before & After Results, Treatment Process, Benefits

Understanding the ZO 3-Step Peel

The ZO 3-step peel is a popular skin treatment that promises glowing, youthful looking skin. It works by using a combination of acids and enzymes to remove dead skin cells, stimulate collagen production, and reveal fresher skin underneath. But what exactly does this peel do and what can you expect from the treatment?

What is the ZO 3-Step Peel?

The ZO 3-step peel contains three separate solutions that are applied consecutively. Each one serves a specific function:

• Step 1 exfoliates - This solution contains lactic and salicylic acids to loosen dead skin and smooth texture.
• Step 2 activates - This solution has a mix of retinoic acid and enzymes that penetrate deeply.
• Step 3 calms - This solution contains ceramides, plant extracts, and oligopeptides for hydration.

Together, these customized solutions reveal brighter, tighter, more even toned skin by shedding the upper layers while stimulating collagen and elastin at deeper levels.

What to Expect During the Treatment

The ZO 3-step peel is typically performed in a dermatologist's office. The process takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. Here's a quick overview of what you can expect:

1. Skin is cleansed and prepped for treatment.
2. Step 1 solution is applied and left to penetrate for 2 minutes.
3. Step 2 solution is applied for up to 5 minutes.
4. Step 3 solution is massaged into skin to neutralize and hydrate.
5. Sunscreen is applied at the end.

You may feel some tingling or burning during the stronger middle step. Your doctor can adjust the strength and timing as needed based on your skin sensitivity.

Before and After Results

So what kind of results can you expect to see from a ZO 3-step peel? While results vary from person to person, most people see significant improvements after just one treatment. However, multiple treatments spaced 3-4 weeks apart will yield the best results.

After The First Peel

Within the first 1-2 days after your first peel, your skin may start to flake and peel. This is normal and means the treatment has triggered skin cell turnover. After about a week, the peeling stops. At this point, you will notice improvements like:

• Smoother skin texture
• Reduced appearance of fine lines
• Lessened discoloration and acne scars
• Smaller looking pores
• A bright, rosy complexion

However, to maintain these youthful effects long-term, you'll need to get repeat treatments.

After 3 Peel Treatments

After a series of 3 ZO peel treatments spaced 3-4 weeks apart, more dramatic anti-aging benefits emerge. At this point, the peel has stimulated collagen production for firmer, plumper looking skin. Most patients see:

• Visibly reduced wrinkles and lines
• Lifted and contoured facial features
• Even skin tone and texture
• Continued improvement of acne scars
• A healthy, glowing appearance

Plus, the results tend to last longer - roughly 4-6 months between maintenance peels compared to more modest results lasting 1-2 months after just one session.

Long Term Results

With ongoing ZO 3-step peel treatments every 4-6 months, you can maintain a radiant, youthful complexion for years. Your skin will reap continual benefits from the peel’s powerful exfoliating and stimulating effects. Expect to see:

• A reduction in wrinkles over time
• Consistent clarity and brightness
• Prevention of new sun damage
• Minimized appearance of age spots and scars
• Restored firmness and elasticity

In essence, your skin will start looking 5-10 years younger after approximately 3 peel sessions. And it will continue improving as long as you stick to the recommended treatment regimen.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Almost anyone can benefit from a ZO 3-step peel. It's safe for all skin types. But those likely to see the most dramatic improvements include people wish to erase:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Dull, uneven skin tone
• Visible sun damage and scarring
• Clogged pores and blackheads

However, it’s important to discuss your medical history with your dermatologist first to rule out any reasons you shouldn't get peeled. People with very sensitive skin, viral infections, open wounds, or isotretinoin use in the last year may not be good candidates.

What About At-Home Peel Pads?

ZO Skin Health also offers an at-home peel pad system to maintain results between in-office treatments. These pre-soaked pads offer a gentler peel option. They still exfoliate and smooth skin texture. However, only the stronger medical-grade peels also resurface skin at a deeper level while stimulating lasting collagen regeneration.

Caring for Skin Post-Peel

To ensure you heal quickly while getting the most out of your ZO 3-step peel, it’s vital to properly care for your skin afterward. Here are some must-do tips:

• Avoid direct sun exposure for at least one week post-peel.
• Gently cleanse skin and apply sunscreen daily.
• Use hydrating serums and moisturizers to nourish skin.
• Don’t pick at flaking or peeling skin so you don't risk infection.
• Wait until skin totally heals before receiving any other facial treatments.

Your dermatologist will provide more tailored advice for recovering from your peel based on your unique skin needs and treatment intensity.

The Takeaway

In as little as three 30-minutes treatments, the ZO 3-step medical peel can transform dull aging skin into a healthier, smoother, and more youthful version of itself. Just be sure to properly prep before your peel, care for your skin afterward, and maintain results with repeat treatments to continue enjoying the anti-aging and complexion enhancing perks.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.