AN-Peeling
Peels
The chemical or enzymatic peel is a very effective anti-ageing technique as it not only evens out skin tone but also stimulates the production of growth factors in the dermis, thus plumping up the skin. Peels refine only the superficial dead layer of epidermal cells, and thicken the overall dermis by removing the outermost surface of your skin to help reduce the visible signs of skin aging, acne and discoloration.
At the same time, they reveal brighter, smoother skin underneath. Peels range from mild to intense, with some professional grade formulas available for home use while others are only available in a salon, spa or clinic.
Depending on the sensitivity of your skin, it is normal to experience a variety of side effects as your skin undergoes the post-peel renewal process.
After 2 or 3 days, the skin may appear flaky or tanned as the outermost surface peels away to make way for new, more radiant skin. You may also notice temporary discolouration or age spots as they rise to the surface of the skin before peeling off.
Your skin is more delicate after a peel, so avoid direct sun exposure.
There are 3 basic degrees of peels:
At the institute we offer fruit acid peels in different degrees, with and without peeling. The process includes a preparation phase to deeply moisturise the skin and prepare it for the peels, and a treatment phase where we will gradually proceed with the peels to obtain an optimal result.
Superficial peel
uses various types of enzymatic or mild chemicals such as alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids, glycolic acid, lactic acid and fruit acids such as bromelain or papain.
Superficial peels target the epidermis, or the outermost layer of the skin. It is ideal for sensitive skin and used to treat dullness, fine lines, acne, uneven skin tone and dryness.
The exfoliation process of this level of peel is complete in 3 to 7 days and can be repeated every 4 to 6 weeks. This peel is suitable for most skin types and requires no downtime.
Medium peel
uses trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or higher concentrations of glycolic acid. This peel targets both the epidermis and the dermis. It targets damaged skin cells and is ideal for wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
Peeling at this level is usually completed in 7 to 10 days and can be repeated in 6 to 8 weeks, but is usually not necessary.
Deep peel
uses higher concentrations of trichloroacetic acid. These peels target skin from the epidermis to the middle and lower layers of the dermis. This is the most aggressive category of skin and can cause severe scaling and redness. It is ideal for fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, scars and also does everything that the other two types of peels above do. Clients can expect a dramatic improvement in the appearance of the skin. Most peels of this quality have some downtime.
This peel may cause peeling that begins four to five days after treatment and is usually over in 8 days, but can last up to 14 days. Following pre- and post-treatment care is extremely important with this level of peel.
Peels’ mode of action
Immediately after application, the acids begin to remove dead skin cells and trigger the shedding of the outermost layers of the skin. This signals the cells just underneath to start multiplying and moving upwards. This process creates an increase in collagen and hyaluronic acid production – essentially, the skin becomes younger. For some time after a peel, skin care products also work more effectively because no dead skin cells are blocking the way.
Low percentages of multiple acids often give better results and with less irritation, than a single acid at a higher strength. While some skin conditions may benefit from very aggressive peels, most patients can achieve the desired results with mild to moderate peels.
Some peels, in order to be effective, are done in several sessions that are spaced several days apart. These habits must therefore be put in place between each peel.
As you will have understood, facial peeling allows you to detoxify your skin, to make it look new and better, and this in a sustainable way! The results will always be better and the risks minimised if you take care to prepare your skin well, then treat it well after each intervention by the beautician.