DERMATOLOGY
Fruit
Acid Peels
Tired
of your old, sun-damaged skin? Now
you can shed that old skin and shine with a bright new
skin.
How
do fruit acids help in the treatment of skin problems?
Natural fruit acids (alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs)
rejuvenate the skin by encouraging the shedding of old,
sun-damaged surface skin cells. Glycolic acid is the
alpha hydroxy acid most frequently used for facial
treatments but lactic and citric acid are also useful.
Who
should use fruit acid treatments?
Fruit acid preparations are recommended for those whose
skin is showing signs of ageing. Fine lines, brown marks
and dry spots can improve with regular applications or
peels. Glycolic acid may also prove helpful for those
prone to acne.
How
does it work?
With time and sun exposure there is a gradual but
slow-down in the rate at which old cells leave the
surface of the skin and are replaced by newer cells.
This results in a surface layer of dead skin cells that
are responsible for the appearance of aged skin.
AHAs loosen the glue-like substances that hold the
surface skin cells to each other, therefore allowing the
dead skin to peel off. The skin underneath has a
fresher, healthier look with a more even colour and
texture.
With high concentration and long-term use, fruit acids
may also affect the deeper layers of the skin. Collagen
and elastin regenerate making fine lines less obvious.
What
do fruit acid peel treatments involve?
An ideal treatment for busy people, who are unable to
take time off work for a deeper peel, fruit acid facial
peels gently retexture the skin over a period of a few
months. The treatments are also helpful in stabilising
oily or acne-prone skin and improving skin tone. A
glycolic acid peel takes about 15 - 20 minutes. It is
usually repeated at one to two weekly intervals as it is
superficial so recovery is rapid. The strength of each
peel ranges from 20 - 70%, depending on skin sensitivity
and starting gently.
The face is cleansed thoroughly and then the peel
solution is applied for three minutes. It stings mildly.
The solution is then washed off.Treated skin may be a
little pink immediately after treatment. A little
peeling may occur over the next few days. It can be
disguised with moisturizer or normal make-up.
Don't
forget the most important skin care tip - Always protect
your skin from the sun!
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