It is that time of the year again when our skin lets us know the summer has been a little unkind. The telltale signs of hyperpigmentation are pretty apparent on our skin. One of the most effective ways to deal with this discolouration, skin dryness and skin renewal is with an in-clinic treatment using a peel.
Peels are available in various strengths and cocktail formulations, and the one suitable for you will depend on your skin condition or concern. A peel is a skin rejuvenation technique that usually contains enzymes, chemicals and herbs.
The idea behind a peel is to remove the damaged outer layers of dry, discoloured, and coarse skin from the skin’s surface. When the peel is applied, it stimulates the skin’s regenerative process. The results reveal a marked improvement in skin conditions such as fine lines and wrinkles, texture & tone of the skin, lightening & brightening the skin, increased blood circulation, softening scar tissue, strengthening the integrity of the skin, stimulating fibroblast cells resulting in new cell formation, hydration, reduction of pore size, clearing of blemishes, more balanced oil production and an overall healthier appearance of the skin.
There are four main types of peel intensity in the clinical treatment room.
- Progressive – This peel does not usually cause visible exfoliation. There may be superficial dryness for a few days post-procedure, and the skin will look refreshed and radiant. It can be experienced as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with treatments such as microdermabrasion. This mild peel can be carried out every 1-2 weeks for 3-6 treatments.
- Mid-Depth – exfoliation with this peel usually occurs within 3- 5 days post-procedure. This level of peel will usually turn brown before a gentle flake occurs. This rejuvenation technique is ideal for monthly use.
- Deep – the skin undergoes considerable peeling, almost like a snake shedding its skin. Two of the better-known deep peels are Cosmelan and the Deep Herbal Peel. The entire process can take 7-10 days and is usually repeated three times a year, depending on the skin condition or concern.
- Biochemical Peel -The peel you have when you are not having a peel. This is the new kid on the block from Europe. This avant-garde technique has no downtime, pain, heat or peeling – but you do need to do it in combination with Q-Switch Laser or IPL.
The biochemical peel incorporates active ingredients in its formulas, and its effectiveness has been proven by dermatological science. Using a cocktail of acid ingredients such as salicylic, lactic, malic, pyruvic, azelaic, mandelic, phytic, ferulic, hyaluronic, pure glycolic, citric, kojic and tranexamic, the results are boosted when done in combination with Q-Switch Laser or IPL. These ingredients are not new in the peel arena; the difference is in the percentage, pH and layering technique.
Factors required to review before having a peel include:-
- Home care and skin preparation are undertaken at least two weeks before treatment.
- Skin reactivity, thickness, and oiliness
- The time of the year and the intensity of the sun
- Your general health, including autoimmune disorders.
- The Fitzpatrick skin type is a guideline to determine how the skin might respond to a peel.
- The Glogau classification is also known as the wrinkle scale of photoaging. This will assist in determining the severity of sun damage in the form of discolouration and wrinkles.
Peels stimulate the formation of new, healthier cells, reviving the complexion. No matter your skin concern or the numerous peels and techniques, rest assured there is one that is just right for you.
