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EXFOLIATION & PEELS - Good to Know

Basic exfoliation removes dead skin cells contributing to a smoother complexion. There are many forms of exfoliation including Enzymatic, Physical and Chemical Peels, and fruit acid as an exfoliation agent.

 

BENEFITS OF ENZYMES

Enzymes are a form exfoliation. Enzymes break down the  keratin protein, which is the upper layer of dead skin cells. This action smooths and refreshes the skin's complexion. Enzymes act very similar to peels, as they reduce fine lines, reduce age spots, and improve skin's texture. Enzymes may come in the form of a Pumpkin Enzyme, Papaya Enzyme, Pineapple Enzyme, or Blueberry Enzyme, to name a few. 

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WHAT IS MANUAL EXFOLIATION? 

Physical exfoliation includes commonly used spherical beads or ground nut shells mixed in a cream cleaner or gel designed to sluff off surface dry skin. Dry Brushing is another form of a physical or manual exfoliant which also stimulates circulation as skin cells are buffed away. 

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CHEMICAL PEELS

Chemical peels are a type of exfoliation that can help improve a variety of skin concerns. Adding a peel to a facial treatment is excellent for age management. A chemical peel will stimulate collagen and elastin production, help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce dark marks, and aid in scar tissue reduction.  

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Professional chemical peels for acne and ingrown hairs often use Salicylic Acid, an anti-microbial and antiseptic. Salicylic Acid is a BHA, Beta Hydroxy Acid, that penetrates the pores to exfoliate the skin, improve acne conditions, and promote a clearer complexion. Salicylic Acid cleanses the pore, thus brings debris to the surface, so breakouts may occur after this type of resurfacing. Although this transition to healthier skin may take time, it is a facial chemical peel worth having if you suffer from acne, ingrown hairs, or simply want to refresh your complexion. Contraindications are allergies to aspirin. Caution for those with very sensitive skin.

 

Since Chemical Peels improve and smooth the texture of the skin, they also assist in improvement of the appearance of scars. Chemical Peels stimulate collagen and elastin causing the skin to become more firm and to tighten. The face and the body can benefit greatly from a chemical peel. To achieve specific results, a Skin Professional or Aesthetician might use one of many exfoliating acids in a facial or body treatment. These exfoliating acids for chemical peels may include Lactic Acid, Glycolic, Beta Hydroxy Acid or Vitamin C (which is not a chemical peel, but gives the skin a similar appearance as a chemical peel) to achieve specific results. Example: Vitamin C is know for it's ability to brighten and tighten the skin resulting in the reduction of the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

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Masks, Serums, Peptides, and facial peels help skin stay strong. Active ingredients stimulate cellular renewal. Advanced skincare facials assist in fine line and wrinkle reduction. Boost collagen in skin. Lift and tone, refresh complextion.

SOME PEEL GUIDELINES

When Can I Receive a Peel? If the following guidelines are met.

 

Accutane user: after 6 months or longer 

Retin-A user: after 7 days of non use

Pregnant or lactating - No Peel

Sunburned or compromised skin - No Peel

Outdoor lifestyle - Not safe to Peel

Serious medical condition - Not safe to Peel

Permanent cosmetics: 7 days and cover w/occlusive barrier 

- No Peel

Waxing: after 72 hours

Hair coloring or bleaching: after 72 hours

Active cold sores or fever blisters - No Peel

Facial fillers/injections: after 14 days

Any ingredient allergy considerations…

If in doubt…DON’T PEEL!

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