The quest to stay young and beautiful has brought forth many interesting and novel treatment regimes. The use of acid peels is tapping into your body's own ability to replenish and refresh skin cells. Acid peels are chemical treatments applied to the skin's surface that then eat away the exterior layer of skin cells, which are dead and appear dull. This enables the fresh new skin cells below the surface to brighten up the skin's appearance. Removal of the top layer of dead skin cells can also reduce the appearance of wrinkles and dark age spots. Glycolic acid is one of the mild chemical peels that can be found in stores and online. Stronger acid peels will have more negative side effects and typically require professional use.
Redness of Skin
Some skin types are more sensitive than others, but it is hard to find anyone who will not have a slight redness of the skin after applying a glycolic acid peel. For some, the redness will subside within a hour, while others may have redness for a day or so. This is a result of the chemical reaction that occurs on the surface of the skin.
Dry Skin and Peeling
It is important to properly moisture your face after a chemical peel. The top layer of the skin is typically protective and the bottom layer is exposed prematurely after a peel. Apply high-quality moisturizers and products to your skin because your skin will be more absorbent and susceptible after a peel.
Blistering
Acids are corrosive chemicals, and the stronger the acid, the stronger the chemical reaction. Thirty-percent glycolic acid is tolerable for most skin types, but certain areas of your face may be more delicate and suffer blistering from the chemical reaction. A slight burning sensation is normal, but if it becomes intense or unbearable, be sure to remove the treatment right away. The areas around the corner of the eyes are typically more sensitive areas of the face.
Skin irritation and Tightness
Removing the top layer of your skin with an acid solution can be very irritating for some skin types. It can leave your skin and face feeling tight and itchy. It is important to apply a soothing and moisturizing cream to ensure the new skin revealed is nourished and healthy. The skin irritation should fade as the new skin heals from the harsh reagents.
Acne
As you shed the top layer of the skin, you also reveal dirt and bacteria that is buried into the deeper layers of the skin. Although chemical peels are supposed to alleviate acne and reduce blackheads, these will be brought to the surface first as they are purged from your skin with a series of treatments. You will probably see your acne get worse first before you see it get better. As with most things in life, you must suffer first to see the rewards later.
Sunburn
Now that you have this fresh revitalized skin, it is essential to protect it from the sun. Without the exterior layer of dead skin cells as protection, your face is more susceptible to pollutants and ultraviolet rays. Ideally, you should wear a hat or keep your face out of the sun for at least a few days after a peel. The more protective you are of your face, the longer it will stay refreshed and looking youthful.
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