What should I book for my first appointment?

If you’re new to Aura Esthetix, we recommend starting with a Customized Facial. This treatment includes a skin assessment and allows us to determine the best approach for your skin concerns.

If you prefer to discuss your skin before beginning treatments, you may book a Skin Assessment Session.

What if I’m unsure which treatment to book?

If you’re unsure which service is best for your skin, we recommend starting with a Customized Facial or booking a Skin Assessment Session. During your appointment, we will assess your skin and recommend the most appropriate treatments for your concerns.

Do I need a consultation before booking a treatment?

Most clients can begin with a Customized Facial, which includes a skin assessment.

However, if you prefer to discuss your skin concerns and treatment options before beginning services, you may book a Skin Assessment Session.

How do I know which facial is right for me?

Every new client at Aura Esthetix begins with a skin assessment before treatment. We review your skin history, current concerns, Fitzpatrick type, and home care routine before recommending a service. You don’t need to come in knowing exactly what you need — that’s our job. Booking a Customized Facial as your first appointment covers everything.

What makes Aura Esthetix different from other facial studios in Chicago?

Aura Esthetix is a corrective-focused facial studio specializing in hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and acne, with a dedicated focus on melanated skin. We use a professional multi-brand protocol selected specifically for their efficacy on melanin-related concerns. Every client receives a thorough skin assessment and a customized home care protocol. Our approach is results-driven: we track your progress and adjust your protocol as your skin responds.

Do you specialize in melanated skin?

Yes. Aura Esthetix specializes in treatments thoughtfully tailored for melanated skin. Many of our clients visit us to address concerns such as hyperpigmentation, acne, and uneven skin tone. Treatments are selected carefully to support the skin barrier while minimizing the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

We work with clients across all Fitzpatrick types (I–VI) and understand that melanated skin requires a different approach than standard facial protocols. Specifically:

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation/PIH (dark marks left by acne or skin trauma) is more pronounced in deeper skin tones and requires targeted brightening actives alongside barrier support
• Chemical peels are selected based on Fitzpatrick type; we use formulations like that are clinically appropriate for all skin tones
• Mandelic acid is often preferred over glycolic acid for melanated clients due to its gentler, more controlled penetration and dual antibacterial and brightening action

If you have concerns about how your skin tone will respond to any treatment, we encourage you to ask during your consultation. It is always part of our assessment process.

Is a chemical peel safe for dark skin tones?

Yes, when performed by a trained professional using the right formulations. At Aura Esthetix, we use products formulated for all Fitzpatrick types including deeper skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV–VI). We assess your skin’s sensitivity and history before recommending any peel. Improperly performed peels on darker skin can worsen pigmentation, which is why professional assessment is essential before any treatment.

What is the best facial for hyperpigmentation in Chicago?

At Aura Esthetix in Chicago, our Brightening Correction Facial is specifically designed for clients dealing with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone. The treatment combines professional skincare lines and clinical-grade chemical peels for corrective brightening actives. Each facial is customized based on your skin tone, Fitzpatrick type, and the type of pigmentation you’re experiencing.

What is the difference between melasma, sun spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

These are three distinct types of hyperpigmentation that require different treatment approaches:

• Melasma: Hormonally triggered, often appears as symmetrical patches on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip. Can be worsened by sun exposure and heat. Requires a gentler, consistent long-term approach.
• Sun spots (solar lentigines): Caused by cumulative UV exposure. Typically appear as flat, defined spots on sun-exposed areas. Respond well to chemical peels and brightening serums.
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark marks left behind after acne, inflammation, or skin injury. Very common in medium to deeper skin tones. Improves with consistent brightening actives and barrier support.

At Aura Esthetix, your first appointment includes a thorough skin assessment to identify which type you’re dealing with and build the right protocol.

What causes hyperpigmentation and can facials fix it?

Hyperpigmentation is caused by excess melanin production, triggered by sun exposure, hormonal changes (melasma), post-inflammatory response from acne or skin trauma, or skin injury. Professional facials can significantly reduce the appearance of dark spots by combining chemical exfoliation, tyrosinase-inhibiting actives, and melanin-suppressing ingredients. Results are best maintained with daily SPF and a consistent home care routine.

How many treatments will I need to see results?

While some clients notice improvement after one visit, concerns like acne and hyperpigmentation typically require a series of treatments combined with proper home care.

For hyperpigmentation specifically, most clients begin to see visible improvement within 2–3 treatments. For stubborn melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, we recommend a series of 4–5 sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart, followed by monthly maintenance. Consistent home care between appointments significantly accelerates results.

During your appointment, we will recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your skin goals.

Can I receive treatments if I have active acne or hyperpigmentation?

Yes. Many clients visit Aura Esthetix specifically to address acne, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. Treatments are carefully customized to support healing while improving overall skin clarity.

Active acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) often occur together and require a dual approach: clearing breakouts without triggering more inflammation, while simultaneously fading the dark marks left behind. We use salicylic acid-based cleansing, mandelic acid (which is both antibacterial and brightening), and targeted brightening serums to address both concerns in the same protocol.

Why do I keep getting dark spots after my acne clears?

The dark marks left after a breakout are called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). They occur because your skin produces excess melanin during the healing process. PIH is not scarring, it is a pigmentation response and can be faded with the right treatment. The key steps are: avoid picking or inflaming active breakouts, wear SPF daily (UV exposure significantly darkens PIH), and use brightening actives like mandelic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C consistently.

What professional treatments help with acne and dark spots together?

At Aura Esthetix, our corrective facials address both concerns in one treatment. We use salicylic acid to clear congestion and control oil, mandelic acid for antibacterial brightening, and corrective serums to target PIH. For clients with controlled acne and residual dark spots, we may introduce a light chemical peel to accelerate the brightening process. We do not perform peels on skin with active, inflamed breakouts as client safety always comes first.

What is Green Peel and who is it for?

Green Peel® is a professional herbal resurfacing treatment designed to improve concerns such as hyperpigmentation, acne, uneven tone, and dull skin. This treatment stimulates natural skin renewal and can significantly improve skin clarity over time. A consultation may be recommended to determine if Green Peel is the best option for your skin.

Is Green Peel safe for melanated skin?

Yes. When performed correctly, Green Peel can be a safe and effective treatment for melanated skin. At Aura Esthetix, treatments are carefully customized to support the skin barrier and minimize irritation.

What do chemical peels do for your skin?

Chemical peels use controlled acid formulations to exfoliate the outer layers of skin, stimulating cell turnover and revealing fresher, brighter skin beneath. Depending on the peel depth and formulation, they can reduce hyperpigmentation, improve acne, smooth texture, minimize the appearance of pores, and address fine lines. At Aura Esthetix, we use PCA Skin’s professional peel line, which is clinically formulated and customized to your skin type and concern.

How often should you get a chemical peel?

For corrective concerns like hyperpigmentation, we recommend a series of 4–5 peels spaced 2–3 weeks apart, then transitioning to monthly maintenance. For general skin health and brightening, once every 4–6 weeks is appropriate. The right frequency depends on peel strength, your skin’s tolerance, and your treatment goals — we build a personalized plan at your first appointment.

Does a chemical peel hurt?

Most clients experience mild tingling or warmth during the peel, which subsides quickly. The peels used at Aura Esthetix are professional-grade but formulated to be well-tolerated, including options for sensitive skin. There is no significant downtime. Some clients experience light flaking or dryness in the days following treatment, which is a normal part of the skin renewal process.

What is microdermabrasion and what does it treat?

Microdermabrasion is a non-chemical mechanical exfoliation treatment that resurfaces the outer layer of skin to improve texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, minimize pores, and help fade superficial hyperpigmentation and acne scarring. It is a great entry-level corrective treatment and pairs well with brightening serums for clients managing dark spots.

What is the difference between microdermabrasion and a chemical peel?

Microdermabrasion exfoliates mechanically, physically buffing away dead skin cells. A chemical peel exfoliates chemically, using acids to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells and stimulate deeper renewal. Chemical peels generally penetrate deeper and are more effective for pigmentation and acne. Microdermabrasion is excellent for texture, mild pigmentation, and clients who prefer to avoid chemical exfoliation. At Aura Esthetix, we assess your skin and recommend the right approach or a combination of both.

What is dermaplaning and can I add it to my facial?

Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation treatment performed with a sterile surgical scalpel to gently remove dead skin cells and vellus hair (peach fuzz) from the surface of the skin. The result is a smoother, brighter complexion with noticeably improved product absorption.

At Aura Esthetix, dermaplaning is available as an add-on to any facial. It pairs
especially well with brightening and corrective treatments, removing the
surface layer of dead skin allows active ingredients to penetrate more effectively, making your facial work harder for you.

Dermaplaning is safe for most skin types and is a great option for clients who want enhanced results without additional chemical exfoliation. If you have active acne or inflamed skin, we may recommend skipping this add-on at that visit to avoid irritation.

Will one treatment completely fix my skin concern?

While many clients notice improvement after a single treatment, concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone often require a series of treatments combined with proper home care to achieve the best results. Our goal is to support long-term skin health rather than quick, temporary fixes.

Do you offer waxing and makeup services?

Yes. In addition to corrective skincare treatments, Aura Esthetix offers body waxing and professional makeup services for clients seeking a complete beauty experience.

How should I prepare for my facial?

For the best experience, we recommend:

• Arriving with clean skin if possible
• Avoiding heavy exfoliation before your appointment
• Informing us of any recent treatments or medications

This helps us provide the safest and most effective treatment for your skin.

What skincare products should I stop using before my appointment?

To ensure the best results, we recommend avoiding:

• Retinol products for 5+ days
• Strong exfoliating acids for 48 hours
• Waxing or laser treatments in the treatment area

If you’re unsure, feel free to reach out before your appointment.

What should I avoid before and after a chemical peel?

Before your peel:

• Avoid retinol, AHAs, and exfoliating products for 3–5 days prior
• Avoid waxing or laser treatments in the week before
• Avoid excessive sun exposure and arrive without active sunburn

After your peel:

• Wear SPF 30 or higher every day — non-negotiable
• Do not pick or peel flaking skin; let it shed naturally
• Avoid heavy sweating, saunas, and steam for 48 hours
• Use only gentle, barrier-supportive products for the first few days
• Avoid retinol for at least 5 days post-peel

Can I receive waxing while using retinol or acne medications?

Certain skincare products and medications can make the skin more sensitive. If you are using retinol, prescription acne medications, or other active treatments, please inform us before your appointment so we can determine the safest approach for your skin.

Will I need to purchase skincare products?

Professional treatments are most effective when paired with consistent home care. During your appointment, we may recommend products that support your treatment results, but purchasing products is always optional.

Do you offer home care products at Aura Esthetix?

Yes, we carry retail products exclusively through the studio. This ensures the formulations are appropriate for your specific protocol and skin concern. We also recommend products as clinical add-ons for clients with stubborn pigmentation concerns.

What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?

Appointments are reserved exclusively for you. If you need to cancel or reschedule, we kindly ask for 24 hours advance notice.

Late cancellations and no-call/no-show appointments will result in restrictions on future bookings at Aura Esthetix.