Skin Peels
Most of us have heard the term “Skin Peel”. There are many different skin peels available to us and it is my goal here to uncover some of the truths and myths surrounding skin peeling.
Skin Peels have been around for many years, going back as far as the 80’s. There are many new methods of peeling but some of the old methods are still used. Many people think that there is only one type of peel available – this is a myth. There are many types and strengths. Most people who I speak to believe that all peels will cause the skin to peel away and go through what is commonly known as “ Down Time,” which means you need to stay home and take time off work, the skin will be very red and eventually peel away. The results, which can be achieved with this type of peel, are good, but the peel does not suit everyone and certainly does not suit all skin types either. This type of peel needs to be performed by a medical professional. It is very important to note that not all peels will make the skin peel.
How do skin peels work and how they affect the skin.
Skin peels can address multiple skin conditions and concerns including ageing and sun damaged skin, hyper pigmentation, acne, scarring and rosacea. They work by removing the out layer of dead skin cells to reveal a fresher, more youthful skin beneath. In the process they will also clear congested pores and stimulate the collagen and elastin in the deeper layers of the skin, this will help to “remodel” the skin and is particularly beneficial for skin losing elasticity. By removing the layer of dead skin cells you are in effect removing a “barrier” which can potentially hinder the penetration of any topically applied products So any products applied after a peel will have a much better chance of penetration and will be more effective.
The superficial peels are very safe to use but still provide outstanding results. This type of peel affects the outer layers of skin, for example: the upper epidermal layers. The skin will not peel and there is no “down time”. They are mostly performed as a six-week program with the client having one peel each week for six weeks. The ingredients commonly used for this type of peel are Azelaic Acid, and Mandelic Acid. Unless there are any contra- indications, this type of peel suits all skin types, and will address most skin conditions and concerns.
A medium depth peel will go much deeper into the skin than a superficial peel. The client may experience or have areas on the face that are pink and sometimes warm to the touch. Commonly found on the forehead, cheeks or chin area. This is normal and after 12-24 hours the pink and warmth will subside. The ingredients commonly used for this type of peel are TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid ) Lactic Acid, Salicylic and Glycolic Acid.
A deep peel
The deep peels such as a Phenol peel go very deep into the skin and are really only used in extreme cases of sun damage. The “down time” with this type of peel can be extensive and range from a few weeks to two months. These types of peels are hardly used any more as the skin is left extremely sensitive to UV rays.
After you have had a peel whether it is superficial, medium depth or deep it is important that you follow the aftercare advice provided by your skin care professional. Your skin care professional will carefully recommend the correct homecare products for you to use and this must include the use of a good sunscreen.
There is a very important point that I would like to cover. I would like you to be aware of a vital point when undertaking any non surgical treatment – and it is this: you must remember that whatever professional treatment you decide to have – the results will only be as good as your homecare program. By this I mean that it is pointless investing time and money in good quality professional treatments if you go home and do not use a good quality effective skin care program such as a cosmeceutical brand. Many people miss this vital key point when it comes to looking after their skin. Good quality home care with high levels of active ingredients will provide you with outstanding results when combined with skin peels. Of course you will get good results without the homecare – but if you would rather have outstanding results then combine the peels with a good long-term cosmeceutical homecare program.
In a nutshell, skin peels are a safe, effective method of resurfacing the skin and helping the skin to look and behave much younger. The superficial peels are safe to use long term and once you have completed your course you can have a peel once a month as maintenance facial. So whether your concern is to keep your skin looking young or to address a skin condition you can rest assured that a professional strength skin peel will provide you with the desired result.
WHAT IS A COSMECEUTICAL?
The term Cosmeceutical is a lovely hybrid of the words ‘cosmetic’ and ‘pharmaceutical’, which hints to its scientific and medical origin. A Cosemeceutical ingredient has the active potential to bring about visible changes to the skin, and these changes will be backed by clinical evidence. When applied topically, a Cosmeceutical has the ability to penetrate deeper into the skin. It is here that collagen, elastin and cellular activity takes place within the skin which is why we want Cosmeceuticals working hard at this level.
COSMETICS VS COSMECEUTICALS
Put simply, a cosmetic product will effectively maintain your skin by providing somewhat temporary results. A cosmetic may contain active ingredients, however these actives will be at a low concentration. Cosmetic products are widely accessible, available from supermarkets, department stores and online. A Cosmeceutical product differs by stepping up with higher concentrations of active ingredients and often a variety of these active ingredients combined. This stronger formulation has the ability to bring about visible changes to the skin making it a results-focused product. Cosmeceutical products are restricted to professional skin care experts where a consultation or skin analysis can be provided.
