A peel from an esthetician is different than the peel that you would receive from an MD.
- Physicians are allowed to use stronger acids.
- Usually, little pampering goes on in the medical environment.
Since I’m not a doctor but am an esthetician, I’ll discuss the advantages of peels given by an competent esthetician.
Peels from an esthetician are in the light to medium range. These treatments will help stimulate, firm and tighten the skin. Superficial chemical peels use a wide range of alph hydroxy acids (AHAs), TCA (trichloroacetic acid), salicylic acid, resorcinol, retinol, trosinase inhibitors. (lighteners), antioxidants and polyphenols to address a wide range of skin types and conditions. So when you’re having someone put acid on your face, you want to be sure that they are competent.
There are lots of peel processes out there, I’m not familiar with them all. However, to get to the product that I do use, PCA Skin, lots of research and testing went on. These products are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and dye-free and use a base of naturally sourced alpha hydroxy acids and aloe vera. The information that I will give is with the PCA Skin products.
Your first peel should begin with a consultation where the skin is analyzed. Treatments should be customized for your skin and to accomplish the results. The esthetician can also recommend a length of time it might take to achieve the best possible results.
14-days before your appointment you should avoid: Having a chemical peel; Tanning in a tanning booth or bed (this practice should be discontinued); Having a wax or chemical depilatory treatment (5 to 7 days); Getting Botox, collagen or other dermal filler injections (7 days); Microdermabrasion treatments; Refrain from sun exposure and do not come to the appointment sunburned; Delay use of Retin-A, Renova, Differin, Tazorac or Avage and high percentage glycolic acid products.
If you are lactating, pregnant or think you might be pregnant, you are not a candidate for a peel. Although, there are oxygenating and deep pore treatments that you could receive.
to be continued . . . . .
