It’s time to talk about a four letter word that everyone hates. No not that four letter word. This one might be worse. Acne. Everyone deals with this at some point in their lives and it is no fun no matter how it happens. The most common time for people to have to go through this is obviously during adolescence. As you mature and hormones are all going crazy, acne is waiting right there to rear its head. Unfortunately, acne doesn’t just afflict teenagers. Even as adults the stresses of life and just every day abuse of our skin can lead to the occasional pimple or even larger scale breakouts. As amazing as makeup can be these days acne is not something anyone wants or should have to deal with. Luckily, there is a treatment that can help!
Chemical peels are all the rage right now and I’m sure you have been told a hundred different things about them. Although some information might be correct, there is a lot that is misleading or confusing. I have a blog posted with a whole overview of chemical peels that will really help you clear any questions you may have and I would encourage you to give it a read. This however, is aimed to arm you with the knowledge you need should you face a sudden or chronic break out.
Although there are many different treatments you can do to help trouble acne, in the world of chemical peels, the Salicylic Peel is my favorite. Specifically the one that I use is from SkinCeuticals called the Micropeel Plus. Before we look at exactly what the Micropeel Plus consists of, it is important that we first understand what and how Salicylic Peels work. Salicylic Peels consists of Salicylic acid and are treatments used to deeply exfoliate the surface layers of the skin. Salicylic acid breaks the bonds that hold the skin’s cells together, causing them to shed away or peel. This is crucial for any acne treatment because unless you clear that layer of dead skin, it traps the oil and bacteria in your pores resulting in further breakouts.
As many of my clients can attest to, I absolutely love the line of products that Skinceuticals has to offer. When it comes to treating acne with a chemical peel, as previously mentioned, I offer SkinCeuticals Micropeel Plus. There are two versions of the Micropeel Plus. The Micropeel Plus 20 and also the Micropeel Plus 30. These two peels are a combination of 20% and 30% salicylic acid respectively to help reduce the appearance of acne, fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, laxity, dullness, and skin imperfections.
When coming in for this treatment, the unknown can be intimidating. Stress is a trigger for additional outbreaks so I want to put your mind at ease with what to expect when coming in for your visit. After first consulting with you, I will begin with a facial massage followed by degreasing your skin. After doing so I then apply a pair of goggles to protect the orbital area and some barrier cream is then applied to more sensitive areas of the face so the peel does not irritate them too much. I then apply the peel to the full face and during this part a fan will be held to help with any discomfort as these peels can feel very warm. This typically lasts for about 3 to 5 minutes. The Micropeel Plus 20% and 30% are both self neutralizing peels, meaning they are not taken off during the treatment but are absorbed and dissipate within about 5 minutes. Once the peel is absorbed, a thin film can be left behind on the skin almost looking like a salty substance layering your face. This film can last until the next time your face is washed. As with any treatment, I will always provide a hand and arm massage to ensure that my clients are relaxed and comfortable. Before leaving the office I will make sure that the peel took correctly and that there aren’t any adverse reactions. Often times by the time your visit is over, your skin can look flushed and feel tight. This is completely normal and can last up to 5 to 7 days. I always recommend my clients to give themselves a few days down time in case there is any redness to follow which can vary depending on the amount of acne each individual has.
As amazing as this treatment is, it needs to be performed with moderation. I recommend my clients to come back in three weeks after their first visit. If you come in for your first visit and have never had a chemical peel done before I always begin with the low strength service to make sure the skin responds appropriately. If all goes well, at your next visit, we can begin with the Micropeel Plus 20% and then proceed from there by increasing to the 30% peel. Depending on the severity of the acne, a series of treatments may be needed. They can vary between 4-6 peels and some clients may even find that they have great results after only one or two. Every patient differs but for the best results possible, I always recommend that an at home skincare regimen is performed and will go over everything you need to know before you leave!
Ance is nothing to be embarrassed about. It can affect any person at any time. So if you are dealing with acne why not come in and give the Micropeel Plus a try. Book your appointment today!
Take a look at some before and after photos of my amazing client who has gone through this treatment. The results speak for themselves:
Before:
After:
