BHA is used to treat a variety of skin conditions. It is an organic acid derived from willow bark. In the skincare industry it is known as a chemical exfoliant. The ph level of this acid is typically between a ph of 3-5.
BHA is considered to be a fat soluble solution. In other words it dissolves in fats. As a result, it can break through the lipid layer which is the oil layer of the skin. For that reason, it is recommended for oily and acne-prone skin types.
However, that is not the only use for BHA on the skin! It is also a recommended treatment for sensitive skin types because it has a lower risk of irritation versus other types of acids.
How does BHA interact with the skin?
BHA produces exfoliating benefits by dissolving the build-up at the surface of the skin which then balances the oiliness of the skin. It is also able to penetrate into the pores which then dissolves the build-up in clogged pores.
It treats conditions that involve scaling or overgrowth of skin, like milia.
BHA helps with milia because it has resurfacing properties. So, not only does it help remove excess oil on the skin, but it helps to exfoliate by removing the dead skin cells so it dissolves the binding glue or the lipids that hold the dead skin cells together so it reveals a fresh new layer of skin at the surface which then pushes impurities up to the surface such as milia and deep acne.
Anti-inflammatory properties
BHA also has anti-inflammatory functions which makes it a suitable treatment for inflamed acne and/or rosacea. Compared to other acids such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid has a more superficial affect on the skin by interacting mainly with the lipid layer.
In other words, it is not as irritating because it won’t penetrate as deep. However, it will promote exfoliation which in turn promotes cell growth. These new skin cells have been strengthened by that process and so the skin is improved overall.
Finally, BHA is also very good at treating Keratosis pilaris which a is a condition that affects the back of the arms and legs.
How can I get rid of ingrown hairs and bumps on my face and scalp?
Let’ start by understanding the cause of these bumps on the scalp…
Razor bumps are often caused by close shaving and barbering techniques. The shaved areas of the skin endure micro-trauma over the protrusion of the hair follicle. The damage is often due to dull blades, excessive pressure, repeated passes, and/or shaving against the grain.
Our skin’s natural response to trauma is to repair and rebuild the damaged tissue, causing a blockage over the opening of the follicle. This blockage prevents the hair strand from breaking through to the surface of the skin. The hair strand will continue to grow and coil back into the skin causing it to swell.
What treatment is recommended for getting rid of these bumps?
Our preferred method to treat scalp folliculitis is with salicylic acid peels or ‘Acne Treatment”. Known for its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory benefits, Salicylic Acid is an effective solution for this and other skin conditions.
What to expect during your treatment…
Salicylic acid is applied to the area for 2-8 minutes and can be layered to intensify the treatment. The acid penetrates deep into follicles where it loosens and softens the oils and buildup. This allows for the hair to become dislodged as the skin begins to shed the excess layers above the follicle opening.
The treatment takes 30-45 minutes and may require manual extraction of the trapped hair. The chemical peel process is repeated 3-4 weeks apart until desired results are achieved, on average 4-6 sessions are required for maximum results.
What should I be doing at home?
Products containing Salicylic Acid are great for at-home treatment. Regular use of these products will continue the treatment process and boost results.
TIPS
Proper home care is key for maximizing results and preventing future breakouts. Here are some tips to follow:
Keep the area dry and clean.
Avoid wearing headgear for extended periods.
Do not shave down to the skin with razors.
Use electric trimmers with a guard to avoid close shave.
Exfoliate skin regularly.
Avoid picking at live skin.
While the visibly bumpy appearance on the skin is the most common concern, other far more concerning issues can arise from these bumps on the scalp. These skin flare-ups can cause scarring, permanent hair loss, bacterial and fungal infections. In severe cases, your skincare specialist may suggest a visit with your doctor for testing or diagnosis before commencing treatment.
Our role is to help improve the general health of your skin through professional care, products, and care recommendations. Call to book your complimentary phone consult with one of our skincare specialists!
” I had my first acne treatment peel a week ago. I have not seen any peeling or flaking…”
Do not fret as you are still in the early stages of the treatment. Patience is key with chemical peels!
The visible reaction caused by chemical peels during and post-treatment varies per individual. There are a few key points we will cover as we help you understand your skins’ response and expectations for your recent acne treatment peel.
1 | The waiting period
At this point, it is too soon to rate the success of your treatment. Your skin is still undergoing the process of lifting the layer of skin that was separated during the application of the peel. Once the skin has fully separated from the underlying skin cells, it will begin to shed. This can take up to 2 weeks.
2 | Not all skins shed alike
When we google or hear the term ‘chemical peel’, we assume our skin will be immediately shedding in sheets or visible patches of skin.
The visible reaction through the healing process depends on the skin type and condition being treated. Oily and acne-prone skin is coarser and has a thicker oil barrier holding the skin cells together. Shedding occurs most during and after cleansing and even so does not flake like a dry skin type. Trust in the process and use exfoliant 2-3 times a week for an added boost.
3 | Number of peels
Peels are most effective when delivered in a controlled manner in order to avoid injury and produce lasting results.
To begin, the skin is treated using lighter peels in order to increase the skin’s tolerance. With each treatment, the intensity of the peels is increased until optimal results are achieved. This measured approach allows for the application of stronger acids with less risk of causing adverse reactions or irreversible damage to the skin. Keep in mind that the stronger the peel, the more visible reaction during and post-treatment.
Although the name and online visuals of the treatment can lead one to believe that all peels should cause major flaking and sloughing, this is not always the case. Be patient with your progress and trust that your skin is operating in its’ own unique way and the skin is rejuvenating on a microscopic level regardless of what you see with the naked eye.
Introducing the newest member of Dérmica’s Peel family- “Retinol + C Peel Boost”
September 2018 Special: 25% OFF all Chemical Peels
To kick off the season, our monthly special is 25% OFF all chemical peels.
All of our peels have been designed to safely remove the outer layers of the skin through the application of organic acids derived from various natural sources. This process brings fresh plump cells to the surface of the skin giving it a vibrant, healthy, smooth and even appearance. This special is not valid with any other offer/promotion. No pre-purchasing; Ends Sep. 30, 2018.
How do Chemical Peels work?
Chemical peels work by separating the upper layers of the skin causing an accelerated cell turnover rate. Because of their molecular structure, they are able to penetrate past the acid mantle of the skin and deep into the layers beneath the surface of the skin. This causes your skin to shed and regenerate a new layer of skin in a 1 to 2 week period.
The acids we use in our professional chemical peels are typically derived from natural sources and produced for safe usage on the skin.
CHEMICAL PEEL SELECTION
ENZYME PEEL
Our Enzyme Peel is a 20% multi-fruit acid complex made of white grape wine and fresh fruit pulp that gently exfoliates the upper epidermis while wine polyphenols condition the skin. A great introductory-level peel ideal for all skin types.
BRIGHTENING PEEL
This acid peel solution provides intense exfoliation for combination and dry skin types concerned with aging and hyperpigmentation. It contains 35% glycolic and 35% lactic acid. Ideal for dry and sensitive skin types.
ACNE PEEL
This 20% salicylic acid solution provides intense exfoliation for problematic or oily skin areas, even within oil-rich pores. Intense exfoliation for problematic or oily skin areas, even within oil-rich pores.
RETINOL PEEL
This 1% Retinol and Vitamin C peel provides softer, firmer, brighter skin and diminishes the appearance of pores. Can be booked alone or added to another peel for an extra boost. Ideal for all skin types except acne, breakouts, and sensitivity.
PLEASE REVIEW THE CRITERIA BEFORE BOOKING YOUR PEEL.
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
Time frame: 15-30 minutes
Recommended sessions: 4-8
Downtime required: 1-7 days
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
NOTE: To be eligible for the Acne or Retinol peels, your skin must be pretreated with AHA or BHA (e.g. Enzyme Peel or pretreated with home care)
SAVE 15% ON ALL IN-STORE GLO SKINCARE WITH YOUR PEEL
When professionally treating your skin, it’s ideal to supplement your treatment with a proper homecare regimen. Professional skincare products add vitamins and nutrients that boost cell rejuvenation thereby extending the results of your peel. Visit our ONLINE SKINCARE STORE to peruse our professional Skincare products.
Not sure which products and ingredients are right for your skin type and concerns?
Try our HOME CARE SELECTION GUIDE to choose the right products to target your skin type and concerns!
and begin your journey to fresh smooth skin!
Our Enzyme Peel is a 20% multi-fruit acid complex made of white grape wine and fresh fruit pulp that gently exfoliates the upper epidermis while wine polyphenols condition the skin. A great introductory-level peel ideal for all skin types.
This acid peel solution provides intense exfoliation for combination and dry skin types concerned with aging and hyperpigmentation. It contains 35% glycolic and 35% lactic acid. Ideal for dry and sensitive skin types. 
This 20% salicylic acid solution provides intense exfoliation for problematic or oily skin areas, even within oil-rich pores. Intense exfoliation for problematic or oily skin areas, even within oil-rich pores. 
This 1% Retinol and Vitamin C peel provides softer, firmer, brighter skin and diminishes the appearance of pores. Can be booked alone or added to another peel for an extra boost. Ideal for all skin types except acne, breakouts, and sensitivity.
and begin your journey to fresh smooth skin!