afaLUXE™ Clay Mask peel

The afaLUXE™ Clay Mask Peel is a gentle two-step exfoliation treatment designed to remove damaged skin layers, stimulate collagen production, and promote softer, brighter skin — all with minimal discomfort and little to no downtime. It’s ideal for those seeking visible results without major disruption to their appearance or lifestyle.

afaLUXE™ is a patented formulation that acidifies naturally occurring amino acids. Combined with powerful brighteners and antioxidants, it offers the exfoliating benefits of a very low-pH solution — with minimal irritation.

Thanks to its low molecular weight, afaLUXE™ penetrates deep into the skin, carrying stabilized antioxidants and brighteners to the same level, promoting renewal, enhancing moisture balance, and strengthening the skin’s natural barrier. It is safe for nearly all skin types and skin tones. It does not carry the same risks that other products can for darker skin tones.

• Fine lines and wrinkles 
• Uneven texture and dullness 
• Pigment irregularities (sun spots, age spots, melasma, hyperpigmentation) 
• Acne breakouts and post-inflammatory pigmentation 
• General signs of aging 
• Moisture balance issues
   

Unlike traditional alpha-hydroxy, glycolic, or lactic acid peels, afaLUXE™ offers powerful exfoliation without the typical irritation and redness. The two-step approach maximizes its synergistic properties, delivering noticeable results with minimal side effects.

• afaLUXE™ 
• Bentonite clay 
• L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) 
• Sea salt
   

The treatment safely targets only the uppermost skin layers and is suitable for most skin types. Rare side effects may include minor redness or temporary irritation.
Note: Clients with a history of cold sores may be at risk of a flare-up; preventive steps can be taken to minimize this risk.

The complete treatment (application + follow-up exfoliation) is $250.
Discounts for series packages are available — please see the Pricing page for details.

All treatments are conducted at my private studio inside Sola Salons, located at El Cerrito Plaza, El Cerrito, California.

Nearly everyone is a candidate, including individuals with mild to moderate rosacea (if there is no active outbreak at the time of treatment), with modified protocols.

• Broken, cut, or sunburned skin in the treatment area 
• Active cold sore (herpes simplex) lesion 
• Recent use of Accutane (within 3 months) 
• Recent radiation or chemotherapy 
• Diagnosis of vitiligo 
• Use of retinols, tretinoin (Retin-A), Differin, or acid-based products within the past 72 hours
   

Visible improvements often appear after 1–2 treatments. However, a series of treatments yields deeper, longer-lasting results.
Think of your skin like a loaf of bread — the first few treatments work through the “crust,” and subsequent treatments reach deeper layers.

When performed as a series, treatments are spaced every 2–4 weeks, depending on your individual treatment plan and goals.
Each appointment (application and follow-up) lasts approximately 45 minutes and is scheduled 5–7 days apart.

• Smoother, more even skin tone and texture 
• Fewer fine lines and wrinkles 
• Diminished acne scars, sun spots, and pigmentation 
• Restored moisture balance 
• Reduced redness and rosacea symptoms (modified protocol)

With diligent sun protection, results can last for a long time, especially after a series. However, aging is an ongoing process, so maintenance treatments are recommended for best long-term results.

• Avoid shaving the treatment area for 12 hours beforehand. 
• Discontinue retinols, exfoliants, and acid-based products 72 hours before treatment. 
• Avoid waxing, hair removal creams, electrolysis, and exfoliating procedures 1 week before treatment.

1. Skin cleansing and a detailed analysis 
2. Application of a skin barrier on sensitive areas 
3. Clay mask applied, dried for 5–6 minutes, then removed 
4. Skin barrier reapplied 
5. Application of the afaLUXE™ solution for 1–3 minutes 
6. Cooling of the skin to relieve any mild discomfort
    

You’ll return 5–7 days later for your follow-up exfoliation, where the released skin cells are gently removed.

The follow-up exfoliation is essential — it removes the thin, translucent layer of released skin, revealing the softer, fresher skin beneath. Your treatment concludes with an oil-free skincare application and SPF 30+ sunscreen.

• A mild itching sensation as the clay dries 
• A light stinging sensation during the afaLUXE™ solution application (easily managed with a handheld fan)
   

Most clients tolerate the treatment very well.

Your skin may feel normal, slightly dry, or tight (like a mild windburn). Mild itching as the skin renews may occur 24–48 hours after treatment.

You may look completely normal or slightly flushed (like a mild sunburn) immediately after. A thin, translucent layer may form but is typically not noticeable.

There is no downtime. You can return to normal activities with just a few temporary lifestyle restrictions (see next section).

• Avoid heavy sweating for 24 hours
• Stay indoors as much as possible for the first 48 hours (brief trips are okay). 
• Avoid touching, washing, moisturizing, or applying liquid-based makeup to the area for 48 hours. 
• Wear SPF 30+ sunscreen daily beginning 48 hours after treatment — even on cloudy days. 
• Avoid shaving, waxing, or depilatory creams for 7 days.

Download full aftercare instructions at the bottom of this page.

Avoid prolonged sun exposure for the first 48 hours. Afterward, you can be outside provided you wear SPF 30+ diligently - even if it's not sunny. Limit all-day sun exposure for 1 week post-treatment.

You may experience very minimal peeling (similar to dry skin). Most of the exfoliation occurs invisibly, and the translucent released layer is professionally removed during your follow-up appointment.

Avoid heavy sweating and intense workouts for 24 hours post-treatment, as perspiration may irritate the skin.

• After 48 hours: resume gentle cleansing and apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily. 
• After your follow-up exfoliation: you may return to your normal skincare routine (continue sunscreen for at least 2 weeks post-treatment).
   

Ongoing sunscreen use is highly recommended. (My favorite facial sunscreen is by Mario Badescu!)

Expect a refreshed, radiant complexion with improved texture, reduced discoloration, softened fine lines and wrinkles, and a strengthened moisture barrier.

See the Before & After Gallery for real results achieved with my customized protocols!