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Peel Season: Sensitive, Adult Acne, and Rosacea You Can Peel Too

By Melissa Federico, LE Beauty and Fashion Writer

Bringing skin back to life: that’s why we love chemical peels. They really do wonders for instantly reviving a dull and congested complexion.

No matter what skin type you are, you can come out of your facial slightly flushed, and with brighter skin. Below we have some beginner peels that are suitable for all skin types, and particularly formulated by trusted clinical skincare lines that can be used on sensitive, acne, and rosacea clients.

Contrary to popular Belief You Do Not Have to “Peel to Feel”

Everyone knows the fable about the tortoise and the hare. Slow and steady wins the race, and that’s the same attitude everyone needs to have when treating their skin. Why? Because the most important thing is reducing inflammation as it’s the underlying cause of most of the skin issues treated. That’s why when attacked with aggressive treatments, like rough mechanical abrasion or high percentages of chemical solutions, the skin breaks down and you get excessive peeling. In addition to everything that made you unhappy about your skin in the first place: post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, uneven texture, and breakouts.

How Do I Peel And What is the Outcome?

Progression is key, not aggression. It’s much better to work up to multiple layers, and longer timeframes on the skin, rather than to go in and attack with everything you’ve got. Results will always vary depending on skin type. Skincare professionals will refer to the depth of the peel, this refers to the percentage of the acid being used, and the number of layers being applied during a treatment. Working with peels that are PH balanced and self-neutralizing also helps to reduce unnecessary trauma, making them great for all skin types and concerns. This yields better long-term results and little down-time. You may experience light shedding, pink skin, and tightness afterward, but your skin should feel and look clearer. Below are three peels we suggest for beginners looking to try out a chemical peel. Knowing what to ask your esthetician is a great way to start on a treatment plan.

Lactic Acid & Trichloracetic Acid
Concerns: Texture, Tone, Inflammed Acne and Rosacea
Treatment: PCA Skin Sensi Peel

Are you looking for softer, brighter skin with less inflammation? Lactic acid is your best bet because the large molecular size means that it works slowly in the skin, making it a gentle and hydrating option for all skin types. When combined with other acids it works even better and we particularly love the PCA Sensi peel because it’s formulated with Trichloracetic Acid (TCA). TCA has the ability to improve surface texture in even the most sensitive of skin types, So when you mix it with a hydrating acid like lactic, you get plumper skin with an even tone within minutes, with minimal downtime. Sweating and steam should be avoided for the 8 hours post-peel and depending on the layers and additional treatments that can be added to this peel, you may see some light sloughing of the skin.

Malic Acid & Salicylic Acid
Concerns: Sensitive and Aging, Congested, Dull Skin
Treatment: Epionce Lite Peel Refresh

Tired and congested skin needs rapid skin radiance from two acids that will simultaneously clear pores and reduce inflammation. The Lite Peel Refresh from Epionce is formulated with a natural keratolytic (cell-turnover), anti-bacterial and anti-microbial ingredient, Salicylic Acid, and Malic Acid from apples. This is a great beginner’s peel because it provides radiance for all Fitzpatrick skin types, even those with very sensitive skin. It will instantly perk up the skin and leave it slightly pink and hydrated. Since this peel requires no downtime at all, you can get back to work with no hesitation.

We know you’ll be hasty to get that post peel glow but know that chemical peels should be used by a trained professional. The best results are seen within a series of progressive, customized treatments. It’s important to understand how different acids can be used safely and effectively on the skin to treat varying concerns. You peel to heal and effective results depend on a strong home care routine that will support skin healing post-peel. The peels mentioned above are a few that are proven to be great for beginners who do not want to deal with too much downtime and need a reference tool that you can use when sourcing a licensed professional for a chemical peel treatment.

For more information on Chemical Peels with PCA Skin and Epionce contact the Clinical Esthetician at Folsom Plastic Surgery @folsomplasticsurgery [email protected] or call 916.984.8585