Upper West Spa

Facial Treatments

ENZYME FACIAL

Our Enzyme Facial utilizes Vita Cura ® Enzymatic Micropeel by Repechage. This mild, vegetable-based peel includes papain, an enzyme found in green papaya fruit. Papain naturally digests the surface protein of the skin, creating a color and texture that resembles more youthful skin. The mask also brightens and refreshes the face by gently removing skin flakes or “squames,” which can contribute to uneven skin texture.

We often combine our enzyme peel with an ultrasound peel for deeper exfoliation. Clients love this thorough yet gentle treatment, and some claim it’s the best facial in the Upper West Side.

Benefits of Enzyme Facial at Upper West Spa:

Frequently Asked Questions About the Enzyme Facial:

1. What is an enzyme peel?

Enzyme peels are the gentler version of a chemical peel. Instead of acids, these peels utilize enzymes extracted from pumpkins, pineapples, cranberries, papayas, or other fruits, which help dissolve and eliminate dead skin cells. Unlike chemical peels, this treatment will not break down any living cells, so it’s ideal for clients who require a gentler, yet still effective treatment.

2. What is an Enzyme Peel Facial good for?

An enzyme peel facial is gentler than a chemical peel, which makes it ideal for people with sensitive skin. It is the preferred exfoliation method for more reactive skin types, and it’s also safe for pregnant and breastfeeding clients.

 

Enzyme peels dissolve the top layer of the epidermis and nourish the underlying layer of skin. This process offers numerous benefits including a smoother complexion, cleaner pores, reduced congestion, and an overall “glow.”

3. Is an Enzyme Peel Facial the same as a Chemical Peel Facial?

Enzyme peels are not the same as chemical peels, but the two treatments achieve similar results using different ingredients.

  • Enzyme peels use natural enzymes to remove dead skin cells. These enzymes are typically derived from papaya, pumpkin, and pineapple. Enzymes are gentler on the skin and are best for clients with sensitive skin. The aftercare for enzyme peels is minimal, and in most cases, clients can receive the treatment frequently with outstanding results.

 

  • Chemical peels are usually referred to as AHA and BHA peels. They use low-PH acids to exfoliate and deeply penetrate the skin with active ingredients. Some of the most popular exfoliating acids include glycolic, lactic, mandelic, and salicylic acids. We typically recommend chemical peels for clients who desire deeper exfoliation.