This is the perfect time of year to get a professional peel, but which one is right for you?
I love it when fall rolls around and I can give my clients what they really want...chemical peels!
I firmly believe that regular skin resurfacing is imperative to accelerate skin cell turnover rates. This is important because cell turnover slows dramatically as we age, from approximately 28 days at age 18 to up to 50 days at age 60. This slow-down affects the skin's appearance and texture in a variety of ways, from fine lines and wrinkles to acne and hyperpigmentation, and chemical peels are one of the most effective ways to address these changes.
If the word 'peel' has you backing out the door, relax! There is a misconception that peels are going to leave your skin burned and blotchy, but when done right, skin health is preserved and the result is fresher, smoother skin. Peels can improve skin's texture and tone, minimize the appearance of fine lines, even the skin tone, and help clear acne by unclogging the pores.
How do Peels Work?
All peels generally work the same way. They help to remove the upper layers of dead skin and encourage cell regeneration (cell turnover). They can also stimulate the formation of collagen in the skin.
Light peels typically use enzymes, retinol, or hydroxy acids which are among the safest methods for improving the appearance of sun damaged skin, fine lines, and mild acne. There is no down time and you see an immediate improvement in skin tone and texture.
Medium peels exfoliate the outer layers of dead skin, revealing a new skin layer with improved tone, texture, and color. If your goal is to manage acne, smooth wrinkles, improve skin texture, reduce age spots, or reduce the effects of sun damage, you will appreciate the results of a chemical peel. Following this type of peel you may have some visible flaking of the skin that lasts 7-10 days, and you will be advised to avoid direct sun exposure and probably follow a post-peel protocol at home.
Microdermabrasion can also be combined with light peels. Crystal free (diamond head) microdermabrasion alone provides very controlled, safe exfoliation for all skin types. When combined with a light peel, the benefits of both are increased.
The Right Peel for Your Skin
Every peel begins with an in depth consultation where we discuss your goals and expectations, and a thorough skin analysis is performed to determine the safest peel for your skin. Sometimes a single treatment will be recommended, other times a series of peels is necessary to help you reach your goal.
How Long do the Benefits Last?
As with all professional skin treatments, your results will be prolonged by using supporting products at home on a daily basis to increase cell renewal, and promote healthy, luminous skin. A great home care prescription will be discussed with you at the time of your first appointment.
Note: if you have rosacea, psoriasis, or eczema, peels are not usually recommended. If you use Retin-A or similar products you will need to stop use for a time before and after your peels.
Using Professional Grade Peels at Home
Definitely! But only with the guidance of an expert! The danger of over exfoliation is that skin can become sensitized, dehydrated, and damaged, leading to inflammation. And inflammation leads to premature aging! The new Rapid Reveal Peel from Dermalogica is fabulous for helping to maintain radiant-looking skin between treatments.
Note: If you receive facials or services such as waxing, sugaring, electrolysis or laser, be sure to tell your practitioner that you use an at-home peel as it will increase the skin's sensitivity to chemical peels and to hair removal, and you may be advised to stop use for a certain period of time before receiving one of these treatments.