Facial Peels have been used for thousands of years to create an even and controlled shedding of damaged skin cells. A facial peel uses a solution applied to the skin to remove dead skin cells and stimulate the production of new skin cells. A facial peel can tighten the skin, reduces wrinkles and restore a more youthful appearance. Varying strengths and formulations of solutions can be applied to the skin, depending on the desired results.
An AHA facial peel is a formulated from Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). AHA's are a group of naturally occurring acids which are derived from certain plants and fruits, including sugar cane, apples, grapes and citrus. These fruit acids have been used for hundreds of years as moisturizers and skin fresheners. The most commonly used AHAs are lactic acid and glycolic acid. Medical research has advanced our understanding of AHAs and allowed us to create formulations of these products that can treat:
AHA acid peels and products decrease the "glue" that holds dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. After a AHA facial peel, the rough, dull, dead cells are sloughed off, exposing a new, fresh layer of skin. A thick layer of dead cells on the surface of the skin gives the complexion a rough, dull appearance. This helps to keep pores clean and helps prevent pores from becoming clogged. When these cells are removed, they expose a layer of fresh new cells. This layer has a smoother texture and a more uniform color. The skin appears clearer and smoother.
An AHA facial peel solution containing varying concentrations of AHA is applied to your skin for a brief period of time and then neutralized. This solution causes several of the top layers of skin to dry up, then exposing a new layer of undamaged skin which has a smoother texture and more even color. You may return to work the day of the peel. Continued use of AHA Facial Peels appears to stimulate new cell growth. Some recent scientific studies have shown that continued use of AHA Facial Peels over time can cause the top layer of living cells to actually become plumper, creating a more youthful tightening of the skin and a smoother appearance. In some AHA users, this tightening can lead to a reduction in fine wrinkles or scars.
Those with acne, uneven pigmentation, sun damage, rough skin and fine lines can all benefit from AHA peels. Be sure to discuss with your esthetician which prescription or over-the-counter creams you are using prior to having a peel, since some topical creams can increase your sensitivity to AHAs.