As people age, their skin loses its ability to quickly rid itself of old skin cells resulting in a thickening of the epidermis and a loss of elasticity. While there are many treatments and products available that claim to help reverse or at least slow down the aging process, there are few ingredients that have received as much attention for their remarkable results as acids used in chemical peels in the medical setting. For 20 years, there has been ample research and medical data that give acids validation for treating many skin issues. From reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines to hydrating skin, treating acne and rosacea, acids are the key to a more youthful appearance.                                       

Chemicals used in skincare and medical spa treatments typically fall into two categories: alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta hydroxy acids (BHA). The most common acids found in skincare products are AHAs, which are a group of chemical compounds derived from fruit, milk and sugar. AHAs have been used for thousands of years to rejuvenate the skin. AHAs work by breaking down the sugars in the skin, and cause the cells of the epidermis to loosen, allowing dead skin cells to slough off, making room for the growth of new ones. The most popular acids by far are AHAs because of their extensive safety record and the outstanding results they provide.  AHAs are very popular for being known as the “lunchtime peel”. Clients are in and out in 30 minutes or less with no downtime generally associated with other, stronger chemical peels.                                            

Glycolic acid is one of the most effective and widely used of all acids. It has the smallest molecular size, which allows it to penetrate the skin and stimulate collagen better than others. Known for its ability to exfoliate and hydrate the skin, glycolic acid is also beneficial for treating sun-damaged skin. Glycolic Peels leave clients with a younger looking, healthier appearance. Our skin care specialists advise clients to avoid sun exposure before and after this treatment because while glycolic acid helps reverse sun damage, it can also make skin more sensitive. If you take away layers of skin, it naturally becomes more sensitive to ultraviolet rays.

While glycolic acid receives the most attention, lactic, salicylic and retinoic acids are also worth noting. Lactic acid has shown to have several long-term benefits on the skin, such as an increase in firmness, collagen level and hydration, and a decrease in wrinkles. Lactic acid is a primary component in the skin’s natural moisturizing factor. This acid is extremely influential because it increases hyaluronic acid, which is great for anti-aging. If you compare a baby’s skin with that of an elderly person, the baby has much higher concentrations of hyaluronic acid. Salicylic acid is often a key ingredient in medical spa treatments and products targeting problematic and acne-prone skin because it is able to penetrate into the pores and exfoliate the dead skin cells that build up there. Salicylic treatments combined with microdermabrasion dissolve sebum and debris, resulting in an improved appearance of acne and problematic skin for teens and adults. The retinoic peel is our most popular chemical procedure at About Face because it addresses most problems and our clients notice a remarkable difference.

Treat yourself to a chemical peel treatment that is sure to leave a lasting impression. About Face Skin, Spa and Laser in Pineville offers these services and products to help you look and feel your best.  For more information on these and other services at About Face, please visit our website at www.aboutfacemedspa.com.  Email me to join our Facebook page and e-mail list to receive monthly newsletters at [email protected]. Call (318) 448-6288 today to schedule your free consultation and discover the difference About Face can make!