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.
Follow these chemical peel post care tips. Chemical peels resurface the skin which leaves it vulnerable and sensitive. Being very gentle with your skin afterwards is very important.
Sun exposure
Avoiding direct and extended sun exposure is very important. This is because these new cells can easily become damaged when exposed to UV for periods longer than 15 minutes.
Using an SPF of 3 0 or higher is highly recommended. Typically, physical SPFs are more gentle on the skin. Using a physical barrier such as a hat or seeking shade when extended sun exposure can’t be avoided is important.
Colder temperatures
When the temperature drops it is important to keep you skin guarded from the harsh winds that come along with the cold winter weather. Having a clean, soft, cotton scarf to guard the face is important.
As we go into the fall we are wearing higher collars and coats. These typically don’t get washed on a daily basis. Therefore, having that scarf as a barrier between your coat collar and your skin is important to avoid bacteria transfer and also friction from the heavier material.
Although the fall and winter months don’t have as much daylight, it is still important to apply your SPF daily. Especially once the snow blankets the ground because we get the reflection of the sun off of the snow which can be magnified and cause sunburn much faster than a typical summer day.
Makeup
Also avoiding makeup application for at least 48 hours is important. You can mascara, eye makeup, lip, or brow makeup, but avoid any type of base makeup unless it s a high quality mineral-based makeup or bb tint with a light tint.
How long does it take for your skin to heal after a chemical peel?
Typically the skin has regenerated within 2-3 days. However, there are many layers to the skin, so that timeframe accounts for only the most superficial top layer. The peel penetrates to deeper layers. There is about a two week period where you’re constantly resurfacing. Thats where the skin peeling effect happens for some people as it expels the dead cells. During that two-week process your skin is regenerating an accelerated rate as a result of the peel.
Follow the chemical peel post care tips for best results.
You can wear makeup after a chemical peel, however, when it comes to applying base makeup, the quality of the base make up is going to make a difference. You are better off using a professional mineral-based makeup. Mineral-based makeup helps protect the skin and is very gentle.
Typically, mineral makeup brands do not have harmful ingredients that absorb into the skin. Instead, they veil the skin and allow it to breathe while also providing an added physical layer of UV protection.
On the other hand, if you are using department store makeup, avoid using it for 48 hours after your chemical peel treatment.
Keep in mind that your skin will look more textured underneath the make up- whether you’re using mineral makeup or not- when you’re going through the shedding process.
How do you wash your face after a peel treatment?
Use a mild cleanser for the first couple of days after a chemical peel. Use it in a typical cleansing routine- once in the morning and a double cleanse in the evening. After that, you can go back to your regular cleansers and incorporate exfoliation after 72 hours.
Well… you don’ have to sleep suspended from the ceiling! There’s not too much to worry about on this front. Just make sure that you have clean pillow cases. If possible, try to use satin pillow cases or a material that is not coarse on the skin . Sleep with your hair tied back so that it’s not in your face.
AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) are both types of chemical exfoliants commonly used in skincare products. Both have the ability to improve the health and appearance of the skin. However, they vary in terms of the skin concerns they address:
1 | Chemical Structure
AHA: Alpha Hydroxy Acids are water-soluble acids derived from various natural sources such as sugarcane, milk, sugar, and apples. Water soluble acids dissolve in water and interact with the hydration levels of the skin.
BHA: Beta Hydroxy Acids are oil-soluble acids, such as salicylic acid are typically derived from willow bark or synthetically developed. Oil soluble acids only dissolve in oil and interact with the skin’s oils and other oily substances.
2 | Depth of Penetration
AHA: AHAs are water-soluble, and work primarily on the skin’s surface to remove dead skin cells, promoting anti-aging, smoothness, and a more even complexion.
BHA: BHAs are oil-soluble, allowing them to penetrate deeper into pores. BHAs are particularly effective for individuals with oily and acne-prone skin types. BHA’s dissolve excess oil, clear out clogged pores, and reduce oiliness.
3 | Exfoliation
AHA: AHAs are effective in removing dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, leading to improved texture, reduced fine lines, and a more even skin tone.
BHA: BHAs also exfoliate the skin’s surface, but their unique property of oil solubility allows them to get into the pores, helping to prevent and treat blackheads, whiteheads, and acne breakouts.
4 | Skin Concerns
AHA: AHAs are great for addressing sun-damaged, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and surface-level imperfections. They can provide a gentle exfoliation suitable for most skin types, except for very sensitive or reactive skin.
BHA: BHAs are particularly useful for those with oily, acne-prone, or congested skin. They help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation associated with acne and rosacea. BHAs can also be helpful for individuals dealing with blackheads, whiteheads, and congestion.
5 | Sensitivity
AHA: Some AHAs can be slightly irritating to sensitive skin, especially when used in higher concentrations or for those not accustomed to chemical exfoliation.
BHA: BHAs are generally milder and better tolerated by sensitive skin compared to AHAs. Salicylic acid, the most common BHA, has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm irritated skin.
Professional Peels
Your skin care professional will ensure your skin type and specific concerns are considered when choosing between AHA vs BHA acid for your treatment. In some cases, your technician will use both acid types in your treatment, alternating them on different sessions to get the benefits of both acid types. Overall, Acid Peels are a tried-and-true method for treating various conditions and delivering lasting results.
Located in Edmonton, our skin resurfacing treatment menu includes photofacials, peels, and dermaplaning.
Skin resurfacing is an esthetic procedure or personal use of an exfoliating product/tool that removes layers of damaged skin. It boosts the regeneration rate of skin cells and promotes collagen production. As a result, it enhances the overall appearance and texture of the skin. Additionally, it improves circulation and absorptive ability of the skin.
Skin resurfacing treatments
Methods of resurfacing include: chemical, mechanical, and light-based treatments.
The technician performs feathery strokes typically using a 10 gauge blade held at an angle over the skin to remove the surface level.
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Try our Treatment Selection Guide. This easy-to-use, digital guide makes selecting the correct treatment for your skin type and concerns a breeze! Our Skin questionnaire allows us to understand your skin type and concerns. With the information you provide, we are able to recommend treatments to address specific skin concerns.
Weather-wise it’s been a great summer in Edmonton, Alberta. Now that it’s coming to an end, it’s time to consider a skin recovery plan. Hiding behind a tan is the damage left behind by heat and harmful sun rays.
Whether you’d like to remove sun spots, or regain some elasticity, a photofacial is great for skin recovery. Throughout September 2022, receive 25% off ANY full face photofacial. This special is not valid with any other promotion. Offer is valid from September 1-30, 2021. No pre-purchasing.
Like mother earth deep cleaning to make room for new life, a facial provides a deep cleanse to make room for fresh skin cells. Our facials include all the essentials such as deep cleansing, exfoliation, steam, and extractions. The products used in our facials are handpicked at each visit in order to adapt to the skin’s changes and progress. Throughout April, receive a complimentary peel (acid) boost with your RELAX or BEAUTY facial. This special is not valid with any other offer or promotion. This offer is valid from April 1-30, 2022.
What are acid boosts?
Boosts are mild skin acids. While the acids used in boosts are not as strong as in our chemical peels, they sure do pack a punch!
BOOSTS can be used to pre-treat the skin before transitioning into stronger skin peels. In addition, they are great for seasonal maintenance and anti-aging. Furthermore, they can be added to other skin care services, such as facials or dermaplaning, to amplify results.
Please review the treatment criteria before booking your treatment. There is an expected downtime of 1-3 days depending on your skin.
AHA (10-20%)
Add this boost to your facial to relieve dry skin. Similarly, this boost reduces fine lines and pigmentation. Ideal for dry or mature skin. Reg. $55
BHA (10-20%)
Add this boost to your facial to treat active acne. The boost is applied after extractions. Ideal for oily skin. Reg. $55
Vitamin C
Add this boost to your facial to give your skin extra protection from reactive oxidizing agents and other free radicals. Reg. $65
