Spas offer a variety of exfoliation treatments as part of facials and body treatments. The purpose of exfoliation is to remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells, revealing the smoother skin below. That outer layer protects the living skin beneath, but can appear coarse and dry, especially as you age. Exposure to sunlight also makes the skin coarse and dry as do exposure to pollution, heat or excessive cold.
Types
Chemical exfoliation is the application of a chemical agent such as alpha-hydroxy acid or AHA to the skin. Mechanical exfoliation is the use of abrasive tools to smooth away the layer of dead skin cells. Both are used in facials and in body treatments at spas. Facials are performed by licensed estheticians and body treatments are usually performed by massage therapists or spa technicians.
Chemical Exfoliation
Chemicals such as AHA destroy old skin cells and stimulate the growth of new skin cells, producing smoother, younger-looking skin. Chemical exfoliation can be superficial, moderate or deep. AHA produces superficial exfoliation and is suitable for many different types of skin. The esthetician needs to decide which exfoliation agent to use, the concentration, application procedures, how long to leave it on your skin, how to prepare your skin and how to care for it after the procedure; all based on your skin type, the area to be exfoliated, your medical history and lifestyle. Milder treatments involve the use of fruit acids, such as those in strawberries or enzymes, such as those in pineapple. Your therapist can make a specialized body treatment for you using fresh pureed fruit.
Mechanical Exfoliation
Abrasive tools and techniques are used in spas to remove dead skin cells. Microdermabrasion requires special equipment and is performed by licensed estheticians or dermatologists. Tiny crystals are sprayed on the skin to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, age spots and uneven coloring, refining the surface of the skin. It can be used on your face and other areas where skin is coarse and dry, such as elbows, heels and the back of your hands. Spas also offer body treatments that exfoliate, such as body scrubs, dry skin brushing, moor mud, massage with a loofah, coarse mitt or exfoliating cloth.
Considerations
It is possible to go too far and damage your skin with excessive exfoliation. Start with mild exfoliation to avoid damage. When you know what your skin can tolerate you can have a deeper exfoliation procedure. Always moisturize after your treatment. Don't wax or shave your skin before or soon after the procedure and avoid any exfoliation treatment if you have a sunburn or your skin is inflamed. After your treatment, avoid exposure to the sun.
Warning
Excessive exfoliation can be damaging to your skin, even leaving scars. Ask your esthetician or massage therapist how long you should wait before having another exfoliating treatment. If you have had a spa treatment, don't use exfoliating treatments such as AHA at home. Especially after chemical exfoliation, don't use harsh soaps or cosmetics, or rub your skin with harsh towels.
References
- "J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol;" Chemical peels in aesthetic dermatology: an update 2009; Fischer TC, Perosino E, Poli F, Viera MS, Dreno B; September 2009
- "Cutaneous Medicine for the Practitioner;" Combining superficial glycolic acid (alpha-hydroxy acid) peels with microdermabrasion to maximize treatment results and patient satisfaction; Briden E, Jacobsen E, Johnson C.; January 2007
- "Cutaneous Medicine for the Practitioner;" Alpha-hydroxyacid chemical peeling agents: case studies and rationale for safe and effective use; Briden ME; February 2004
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