6.16.10
PEELS GIVE SKIN A FRESH START
THE BEST WAY TO GIVE LACKLUSTER SKIN a healthy
glow is by removing dead cells
from the skin's outermost layer and allowing
new skin to surface. Exfoliation
dates back to the ancient Egyptians, kings and queens used
alabaster and pumice to remove imperfections and
make skin soft and smooth.
Milk was also used as a
chemical exfoliant, lactic acid performing as a
natural peel. Cleopatra was aware of the benefits of exfoliation and regularly soaked in milk baths.
WHAT IS EXFOLIATION AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
One layer of skin is lost every two days.
In a matter of 10 days, the epidermis is gone.
Typically, skin cells migrate to the
skin's outermost surface every 28-30 days, where they become saturated with keratin and die. These dead cells build up causing dull, uneven skin tone and clogged pores. Exfoliants work by breaking down the skin's keratin bond, loosening these cells to reveal new skin underneath.
Exfoliation stimulates the development of younger cells in the skin's lower layer, the dermis, and boosts blood and lymphatic circulation, leaving skin with a healthy glow.
All ages and skin types may benefit from regular exfoliation. When done
properly, it helps to unclog pores, keep skin
clean and reduce acne breakouts. It can also help
minimize acne scars and extract blackheads and
whiteheads. It helps to reduce fine lines and
wrinkles and improve a dull complexion. Additional
benefits include the reduction of age spots and minimization of hyper-pigmentation, as well as allowing products to penetrate better.
Exfoliation is not limited to the face.
Some types of exfoliants can be used on the body. Men and women alike should exfoliate regularly, not only for the aforementioned benefits but
also to reduce ingrown hairs from shaving. Exfoliating
before shaving exposes hair follicles,
allowing a closer shave.
While exfoliation may sound like a
cure-all, it is important to realize that certain
types of exfoliants are more abrasive than others,
and over exfoliation can irritate
skin and cause it to dry out. Dry skin can lead to wrinkle development, so
do everything in moderation and use moisturizer and sunscreen regularly.
If you are
using any topical or oral medications that would make your skin more sensitive to exfoliation (such as AccutaneÃÆ''Ã'Ã'® and Retin A), be
sure to consult with your
doctor before receiving a peel treatment.
AT HOME TREATMENTS
There are a variety of methods that
people use to exfoliate on their own. Some mechanical exfoliation methods people
follow at home include using a washcloth, loofah
or natural bristle brush. Other types of
over-the-counter exfoliants are
scrubs containing salt, sugar or ground fruit and
nut kernels. These mechanical exfoliants work by removing dead skin cells with the help of an abrasive ingredient, bristle surface or washcloth fibers.
There are also at-home chemical
exfoliants. These often contain salicylic acid,
glycolic acid, retinol, alpha and beta hydroxyl
acids and more. Chemical exfoliants dissolve or
loosen dead skin cells with various acids or
enzymes. They are the exfoliants of choice for
acne treatment, as the friction created with
mechanical exfoliants such as scrubs or face
brushes can irritate already inflamed skin. Light
chemical exfoliants are also effective at treating
dryness, sun spots and fine lines, as well as
improving skin texture.
SPA SERVICES
For more dramatic results, individuals
may seek professional expertise from an
esthetician, dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon to turn back the hands of time and improve their complexion with exfoliation. Light chemical
peels are highly sought-after exfoliation
treatments.
The fast acting glycolic peel is still
considered one of the most popular peels in spas
today because it delivers quick
results you can see and feel. There are many chemical peel choices that
produce great results when they are administered onto the correct skin type. A thorough and
proper analysis is key.
Enzyme exfoliation is gaining
recognition. These treatments have natural enzymes
that are protein-dissolving. They destroy the
keratin in dead cells on the surface of the skin.
Enzyme treatments come in a variety of
percentages, and as with peels, a slow dose
approach is best. The pumpkin enzyme is a powerful
antioxidant that assists in cellular turnover.
With all forms of exfoliation, home care compliance must include a home care
regimen and daily sun protection. If you do not follow the home care regimen, you will not experience the full benefits of the treatments.
The practice of exfoliation has continued
to improve and evolve throughout the years. Administered correctly, regular exfoliation is a safe and effective way to improve the condition and appearance for almost all skin types.
Urbaca salon carries peels from:
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT WHICH PEEL TREATMENT IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
SCHEDULE A COMPLIMENTARY 10 MINUTE SKIN ANALYSIS WITH URBACA'S ESTHETICIAN, SHERRY!
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PEEL PARTIES!
