TIPS + FAQ

GENERAL QUESTIONS AND POLICIES

What makes Skin MPLS different?

Unlike traditional skincare spas, we really dig in and treat skin issues. We even clear acne. We’re not afraid of it, we love it. Our approach to treating acne is three fold.

1. REMOVE AS MANY ACNE OBSTACLES AS POSSIBLE FROM YOUR LIFESTYLE AND SKIN ROUTINE

2. INTRODUCE ONLY PROVEN ACNE TREATING PRODUCTS AND INGREDIENTS

3. COMBINE WITH PROFESSIONAL EXTRACTIONS AND GUIDANCE

Treating acne is mostly science with a little bit of art mixed in. The art comes into play because not one person is exactly the same nor has the exact same acne – so we make tweaks here and there to make our treatment suit you and your skin.

Our end goal is to get you clear and also help you learn about your own skin and acne triggers. This gives you the tools you need to prevent any future breakouts. 

What is the Cancellation Policy?

All appointments are subject to the cancellation policy and must be reserved with a valid credit card. Appointments must be cancelled or rescheduled with at least a 24-hour notice or are subject to the full fee of the treatments schedule.

The policy also applies to any appointments cancelled or rebooked via Skin MPLS's online scheduling calendar with less than 24 hours notice as well as "no shows." It is your responsibility to check travel conditions on the day and plan for weather in advance.

Repeat offenders may be asked to pay in advance for treatments and/or no longer book with us.

What is the lateness policy?

We respect your time and work very hard to stay on schedule throughout the day for each appointment time which means if a client shows up late it can through affect the next client’s appointment start time. Because of this, please do your best to arrive at least few minutes before your scheduled appointment. You’re welcome to arrive even earlier and sit and enjoy some quiet time to unwind before your appointment. However, if you’re running more than five minutes late, please call us so we can chat to determine if it’s necessary to reschedule your appointment.

If by chance we are running behind more than 10-15 minutes, we will also notify you before your scheduled appointment time.

Can I Walk-In for an appointment?

Skin MPLS is a “by appointment only” skin studio, so please call or book an appointment online before you come. However, if you would prefer to pop in to pick up some products or make an appointment in-person, our friendly and helpful front desk staff would love to assist you.

How can I purchase your products?

If you need to refill a product that you are running out of, you may pop by the studio during our open hours or you can purchase it online via this link. We can either set it aside for you to drop in and grab at your convenience or we can mail it you. We offer free shipping in the US for orders over $20, but not during sale events. Otherwise, if you'd like to discuss your regimen, book a “consult15” through our online scheduling. This is a complimentary 15-minute appointment during which we can consult and get your skincare product questions. We also offer a longer, more in-depth appointment called “product reboot30” where we have 30 minutes to dive completely into your homecare regimen.

How can I purchase A gift card?

You can purchase digital gift cards online via this link. Gift card purchases are non-refundable and can only be used towards product purchases made in the studio or over the phone — they cannot be used to purchase products online via our e-commerce site. Also, Skin MPLS gift cards cannot be used towards medical treatments at Med Spa @ Skin MPLS.

How can I schedule an appointment?

The best way to book your appointment is through our online scheduling. It is most convenient to create an online account with us so that you may easily manage your appointments should you need to reschedule or cancel in the future. You may also email us at contact@skinmpls.com or respond directly to the email or text confirmation you receive regarding the appointment. Additionally, feel free to give us a call for your bookings as well.

What is the return policy?

As a small business, we are unable to accept returns other than damaged or defective products. In these instances, please notify us as soon as possible so that we may replace your product for you. We do hand select the products we recommend especially for you, so these products (when used as we direct) will work well for your skin and goals. Let your aesthetician know if you’re having a hard time acclimating to a product though, we’ll guide you through it. The products recommended to you were carefully selected by your skin expert for your skin, sometimes it can take time and patience to see full results or to acclimate fully.

What are the accepted forms of payment?

Skin MPLS accepts Apple Pay, Google Pay, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover credit card and debit card payments as well as cash and Skin MPLS gift certificates. We are also able to accept Health Savings Account (HSA) credit and debit cards if they go through (and we have no control over this, just some clients’ HSA cards work and others do not).

Do you accept gratuity?

We do not accept gratuity. Our pricing reflects the value we provide in each session and our team’s pay structure is fair and transparent. If you feel we provided you with exceptional service, please let us know, we will gladly accept your gratitude in the form of referrals and reviews. We promise to take excellent care of your friends and family and we would also love to hear your feedback, so please feel free to leave us a review here!

Are children welcome?

Like you, we love children too; however, during your services you’re laying down (oftentimes with your eyes closed and covered) and unable to tend to them as necessary so we ask that you do not bring small children along to your treatments.

Are animals welcome?

Of course we’re obsessed with animals, we could individually talk all day long about our respective pets. Unfortunately, the Minnesota Board of Cosmetology that governs us does not allow animals in the studio, this applies also to emotional support animals. So please just bring your pictures. Guide dogs, however, are allowed under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

ACNE AND SKINCARE

Why do I have acne?

Acne is hereditary and may also arise from hormones or stress. Acne lesions (AKA, pimples) start deep under the skin’s surface, typically forming 30 to 90 days before you see them. A pimple begins down in the pore when a dead skin cell is retained within the pore instead of flaking off and being purged. This process repeats over and over again and eventually an impaction or plug is formed in the pore. At this point, the pimple may take a non-inflammatory route or an inflammatory route. The non-inflammatory route typically shows up as a blackhead or a whitehead. The inflammatory route is less desired because the pore wall eventually collapses due to the growing impaction; this results in an inflamed, red (and possibly cystic) lesion.

How much will clearing my acne cost?

Each initial professional acne treatment starts at $150 and follow-up sessions start at $95; plan on a minimum of four treatments. At your first visit, we will devise an at-home daily care plan consisting of 2 to 6 different products. Typically, the initial product investment will cost between $70-$220 and will last from 3 to 9 months depending on individual usage and instructions.

What can I expect at my first acne treatment appointment?

Visit this link for a full explanation of what to expect before, during and after your first Acne Clearing Facial Treatment with us.

What else can I do to speed up the process of clearing my acne?

Have patience and follow your home care instructions closely. Ice any inflamed areas for 2 to 5 minutes two times per day. Don’t touch your face and don’t pick your acne lesions. Wash your pillowcase weekly, use clean towels to blot your face dry, and wear only Skin MPLS approved makeup. Additionally, let us know if you have any questions or concerns as soon as they come up.

Are there other acne clearing tips you can share to go along with my home care products?

When cleansing your skin, do not use too much water; this will dilute the active ingredients in your cleanser. Also, be sure to leave your cleanser on your face for a minimum of one minute. Use clean hands when washing your face as well as a clean towel to pat dry after cleansing.

Use either cotton pads or gauze when applying your toner; cotton balls waste too much product and do not tone your face as effectively. Also, run all additional products you use on your face, and even hair and body, by us.

Additionally, follow us on Instagram and Facebook for other helpful, daily tips and information.

How do I know what skin treatment service to book?

Some of our clients know exactly what they want and book it, but others just leave it up to us to decide. We customize every treatment to your skin regardless, so you really can’t go wrong and we won’t do anything that isn’t appropriate for your skin. If you’re really unsure, just go ahead and book a Skin MPLS Signature Facial Treatment and we’ll discuss before we begin and make a change if necessary. You can also read here to help identify what treatment will be best for you.

What can I expect with a peel?

We have several different peels that we offer. Some have no discomfort, downtime or visible peeling while others are more intense, and you may peel for up to a week. Before we start every chemical peeling service, we consult with you to understand the results you’re after and the amount of peeling that you’re willing to undergo. Also, understand that just because you do not see visible peeling, doesn’t mean you will not see improvement in your skin.

There are several potential side effects that may occur with a chemical peel that include redness, welts, scabs, dryness, tightness, swelling, irritation, and of course peeling of the skin. A bit of redness, tightening of the skin and peeling is typical though.

What can I expect with a microdermabrasion?

With microdermabrasion you can expect a resurfacing of the skin, it removes built up dead skin cells leaving you feeling incredibly smooth and glowing.

There are several potential side effects that may occur with a microdermabrasion treatment that include redness, swelling, bruising, stinging, tenderness, dry or flaking skin and lightening or darkening of the skin. In addition, side effects could include slight blood potting which may appear with deeper treatment levels. Healing may take several days or longer. Always check with us if you have any concerns after the treatment.

ABOUT ADVANCED TECHNIQUES

What is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a deeper form of manual exfoliation for the outer layers of the skin. We use a professional, crystal-free Silhouet-Tone microdermabrasion machine. This machine uses a diamond-tipped applicator head along with controlled suction to remove dead surface skin cells and initiate cellular turnover of the epidermis.  

We use microdermabrasion to treat some types of acne, acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, textured skin, dull skin, and stretch marks. Maintaining even cellular turnover on the skin’s surface aids in a glowing complexion, smooth skin, and increased collagen and elastin production. Results may include improved skin tone, fewer breakouts, diminished appearance of scars, even skin color, refined skin pores, renewed elasticity, and a healthy glow. Maximum results are obtained by participating in a series of treatments plus following a complimentary home care regimen.

Microdermabrasion is a pain-free, comfortable form of exfoliation that instantly makes your skin more radiant. No down time is needed for this treatment and it’s a safe form of exfoliation during pregnancy.

What are Chemical Peels?

Chemical peels are topical acid exfoliants applied to the skin to soften the dead skin layer and exfoliate the skin. Stimulating cell turnover will help to restore the skin to a healthier, more youthful appearance. 

Many skin conditions can be improved when receiving a series of peels. Fine lines will be softened, dull skin will appear more radiant, rough or uneven skin will become smoother, sun damaged skin or blotchy skin will even out, and acne scarring will be softened.

We use several types of acids in our chemical peeling treatments to achieve a variety of different results. Certain acids have properties that tackle specific issues while others go a bit deeper into your skin to create a more intense result. Mandelic, Lactic, Gylcolic, Azaelic, Arbutin, Salicylic and Trichloracetic acids are our most commonly used acids.

Some of our chemical peeling treatments offer little to no down time, while others you may visibly exfoliate (peel) for up to a week.  Chemical peels are an option for most skin types, but those with severe Rosacea are not peeling candidates.

What is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a form of manual exfoliation similar in theory to microdermabrasion, but without the use of suction or abrasion. A surgical grade, sterile blade is stroked along the skin at an angle to gently shave off dead skin cells from the epidermis. Dermaplaning also temporarily removes the fine vellus hair of the face, leaving an extremely smooth surface. 

As with any type of exfoliation, the removal of dead skin cells allow home care products to be more effective, reduce the appearance of fine lines, even skin tone and assist in reducing milia, closed and open comedones, and minor breakouts associated with congested pores. 

Dermaplaning can be an effective exfoliation method for clients that have couperose (tiny blood vessels near the surface of the skin), sensitive skin or allergies that prevent the use of chemical peels.

What is Microcurrent?

Microcurrent is a non-invasive electric machine that stimulates energy within the cells. Microcurrent is like exercise for the skin. It sends signals to produce collagen at a rapid rate and is an alternative to injectables. It is used to temporarily plump and lift the skin, and with multiple treatments has long-term effects on fine lines, wrinkles, and skin sagging. 

There are multiple devices that we work with professionally in our treatments that carry microcurrent. It is often done for clients worried about fine lines, wrinkles, dehydration, or sagging in their skin. Microcurrent can be performed with other modalities such as peels, dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, and more. It is not exfoliation and does not cause any downtime to the skin.

What is Rezenerate / RevitaPen?

ReZenerate and RevitaPen are the latest in nanotechnology. They work in a similar fashion to microneedling to support the production of collagen. Unlike microneedling, nanotechnology uses no needles – but instead, uses a patented technology to deeply penetrate products into the skin. It works wonders for fine lines, wrinkles, under eye concerns, dull skin, dehydrated skin, and acne scarring. 

Nanotechnology is a gentle, painless, and safe procedure with instant results and is friendly for any skin type and tones. It is often done with other modalities to enhance the results of those as well. 

Note that there is no difference between ReZenerate and RevitaPen, these are just simply two different brand names for the same modality.

What is LED Light Therapy?

LED is short for light emitting diode. It is a non-invasive treatment where the light enters the skin to improve skin's texture, tone, and speed up healing time. LED can be used to treat acne, dry/damaged skin barriers, and aging as well. It is a great option for every single skin type. 

LED is safe for all clients, even those pregnant and breastfeeding, and great for sensitive skin. It can be used after other stronger modalities such as peels and microdermabrasion to alleviate redness or irritation making it a great treatment before big events or for clients who prefer no downtime.

How do I choose? I want them all!

You don’t have to, we’ll choose what your skin wants and needs at your treatment. Our stance on treating skin is that there is not one right way or perfect treatment to change skin. We have found that the best approach to treating skin is a diverse one. We like to utilize all the different advanced treatment modalities in order to best tackle skin issues and affect the most change in our clients’ skin. While we do not offer laser therapies or injectables at Skin MPLS, we do recommend these types of treatments and have colleagues that we fully trust and are happy to refer to you.

WAXING + BROWS

How often should I wax my eyebrows?

Most people need their eyebrows done every four weeks. They typically look really clean and fresh for about three weeks and then by the fourth week have grown in considerably and are ready to be cleanly waxed again. Some blondes are able to stretch their appointment frequency to closer to 6-week intervals. It all depends on you though!

I grow a lot of hair on my face, should I wax it?

Absolutely, if it bothers you. Waxing will keep the hair at bay for about three weeks and then by the fourth week you will be ready for another wax.

Some women grow thicker, coarse hairs on their chin and lip areas due to their hormones – waxing is also a good solution for these, although you may need to come more often because these hairs tend to grow back more rapidly and can become ingrown if you tweeze them incorrectly. However, if you only grow the sporadic thicker, coarser chin/lip hair, we do encourage you to go ahead and tweeze them if there are just a few, no need to wait for your next waxing appointment.

You can also get a Dermaplaning Service to remove unwanted facial hair. During this service, we use a surgical blade to remove all of your facial hair along with dead skin cell build up. This service leaves your skin incredibly smooth and hair-free.

Should I tweeze my eyebrows in between appointments?

We prefer that you do not tweeze in between your scheduled appointments because it’s our goal to give you a long lasting wax. When you tweeze some hairs, it throws them out of the growth cycle and then you don’t get a clean wax that lasts as long. Also, it’s been our experience that clients accidentally and inevitably over tweeze or create holes. Leave your eyebrows to us professionals ;)