The betahydroxy acid (BHA) in your chemical peel works by lifting the stratum corneum (the upper layer of the skin). As it lifts, it dissolves the lipid layer between the dead skin cells. As a result, a fresh layer of skin cells is exposed that has a healthier and more active cell function than the dead layers that were exfoliated with the treatment.
Better Absorption of Products
In turn, the BHA in the treatment allows for better absorption of products applied to the skin. This is especially true for serums or other topicals being used to treat acne or blemishes; They are better able to reach the pores and target inflammation since there is no longer a layer of excess oil and dead skin blocking the way.
After a BHA chemical peel, you will also be able to achieve deeper cleansing on a daily basis. Again, this is due to decreased pore congestion and a reduced amount of oil barrier at the surface. Your cleanser is able to get into those pores and keep them clean which helps you maintain results.
Inflammation and Sensitivity Reduction
BHA chemical peels can also be used to treat inflammatory conditions of the skin, as well as sensitivity. This is due to the strengthening effects of betahydroxy acids. Also, BHA is part of the same family as anti-inflammatories such as aspirin. So, the BHA in chemical peels has anti-inflammatory properties.
Who should avoid BHA in chemical peels?
BHA is not suitable for people that are allergic to aspirin or other similar medications. People that are taking medications that cause photosensitivity or adverse reactions to the skin should avoid BHA treatments.
In addition, avoid BHA if you are using topical medications for skin conditions or are on oral medications for acne. It is always best to consult with your dermatologist, physician, or pharmacist, and go by their recommendations.
The number of chemical peels (acid peels) you need in order to see results depends on what your goal is and how far your want to take the results.
If your goal is to exfoliate the skin and brighten the overall complexion on a basic level and you have fairly clear skin, then yes, one chemical peel is enough to achieve a more rejuvenated complexion. Keep in mind that it is not a permanent fix. In other words, the results will last you from six to eight weeks.
On the other hand, if you are looking to treat acne or deep congestion in the skin, then one treatment will not be enough. You will need to continue treatments until the oil is balanced, the inflammation is reduced, and the pores are cleaned out. All this takes multiple sessions. Realistically, these types of goals are achieved in about six to eight treatments.
What about when treating hyperpigmentation?
The same thing goes when treating hyperpigmentation. It depends on a few factors. These include the amount of pigmentation there is in the area, the size of the spot, how deep it is, and the cause of the hyperpigmentation, to name a few. For example, hyperpigmentation can occur due to factors such as medication, skin conditions, genetics, and trauma to the skin.
Anti-aging goals
Like the rest of us, you are always going to be fighting against time! So whatever results you are able to achieve with anti-aging treatments is temporary because you age everyday. So if the goal is anti-aging, then resurfacing the skin and accelerating the cell’s turnover rate is the goal. These results can be achieved with one deep chemical peel. But if you have sensitive skin, it is a process that can be delivered gradually overthree to four sessions. Peels will only penetrate as deep as that grade/level of percentage can go. From there, anything beyond would just be causing unnecessary trauma to the skin.
Are chemical peels painful?
Chemical peels can be uncomfortable. Depending on their pain tolerance, some people may experience pain in the form of stinging or a little burning sensation. The average person will report an intense irritation often described as the feeling you get when you’ve cut jalapeño peppers and then accidentally touched your face.
You may also feel a strong urge to scratch where the peel has been applied while its absorbing into the skin. In terms of it being painful, it’s a matter of individual experience. For most people its not the case. In addition, any discomfort that you feel can be reduced by fanning the area during the treatment.
What is the downside of chemical peels?
The downside of chemical peels is the recovery process. Depending on your reaction, some people may experience major flaking that is very apparent.
Located in Edmonton, Dérmica offers a chemical peel treatment menu to deliver varying depths of chemical exfoliation through the application of enzymes or hydroxy acids.
Peels are customized depending on the current condition of the skin and desired results. Conditions that can be treated include: pigmentation, acne, fine lines, dry skin, and more. There is a recommended downtime of 2-7 days depending on the depth of the peel.
BOOST Mild Peels
BOOST peels are classified as mild skin acids. BOOSTS can be used to pre-treat the skin before transitioning into stronger skin peels. They are great for seasonal maintenance. Can be added to a Facial or Dermaplane service to amplify results. Downtime: 24 – 48 hours.
AHA (10-20%)
$ 55
Relieves dry skin, reduces fines lines and pigmentation.
BHA (10-20%)
$ 55
Cleanses and decongests oily skin.
Enzyme
$ 55
Exfoliating peel ideal for all skin types and maintaining healthy skin.
Vit C
$ 65
Brightens the complexion and softens the texture of the skin.
Deep Peels (20 – 85%)
Deep peels are classified as medium to strong skin acids. They range from 20% to 85% and can be layered. They are ideal for pre-treated skin and provide deeper resurfacing of the skin. May cause visible shedding and flaking. Downtime: 3-10 days
Bright
$ 145
Relieves dry skin, reduces fines lines and pigmentation.
Acne
$ 145
Cleanses and decongests oily skin.
Anti-Age
$ 145
Delivers powerful exfoliation and promotes rejuvenation of skin cells.
Dry Skin
$ 145
Relieves coarse/ flaking skin and boosts hydration levels.
Purchase a treatment package! Receive 15% OFF when you purchase a series of 6 treatments.
PLEASE REVIEW THE CRITERIA BEFORE BOOKING YOUR PEEL.
Recommended sessions: 4-8
Downtime required: 1-7 days
Time frame: 15-30 minutes
Pre-treatment protocols:
Must not currently be on or have used Accutane or any other oral prescription acne medications in the past 12 months
If currently using any products containing AHA/BHA/Retin A/Vitamin A on the area being treated, you must discontinue usage 2 weeks prior to procedure
Must wait a minimum of 1 week from last tanning session
Contraindications:
Diabetes
Pregnancy
Skin cancer (remission under 2 years)
Use of photosensitive medication and herbs
Active infection of Herpes Simplex in treatment area
Active skin infection
Potential side effects:
Discomfort
Fragile skin
Edema (swelling)
Erythema (redness)
Visible shedding
Book your Chemical Peel Treatment in Edmonton!
Love, Peace, and Great Skin!
Dérmica MedEsthetics (780) 885 7108 dermica.ca
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