Exfoliation is one of the fundamental steps in any skincare routine. It removes dead skin cells, which prevent products from working efficiently, makes your complexion dull, and clogs pores. For that extra skin TLC, you might want to consider skin peels.
Chemical peels are popular because they claim to create a smoother-looking appearance, provide deep exfoliation, unclog pores, even the appearance of the skin, reduce the presence of dullness, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Dangerous effects
However, the harmful side effects are rarely broadcasted. Some of them are scarring, redness that can last for several months, fungal or bacterial infections, changes in skin tone, and potential liver, heart, and kidney damage.
Also, it's crucial to know that chemical peels can't technically reduce pore size or eliminate severe wrinkles or scars, according to research conducted by skincare experts.
This is why you should choose clean peels to rejuvenate your skin. If you're new to this, we've put together an easy guide to help you get started.
Types of clean peels
Chemical peels require a visit to a licensed medical professional since they're medication. However, natural peels can be administered at a spa, purchased as an over-the-counter treatment product, or prepared in your kitchen.
Here are the most popular forms of natural peels.
Enzyme peels
Enzymes are organic materials made of proteins. They serve as catalysts to chemical reactions in the body. Enzyme peels are useful in providing an instant glow, revitalizing the appearance of mature skin, correcting dullness, encouraging revitalized skin, and minimizing the appearance of pores.
HOW THEY WORK
As opposed to chemical peels, enzyme peels don't eliminate healthy skin cells, only dead ones. They're safe enough to use once a week for 20-25 minutes per session.
You can make a homemade peel easily since these enzymes are found naturally in foods such as pomegranate, pumpkin, papaya, pineapple, ginger, banana, avocado, mango, honey, and others.
Herbal peels
Enzyme peels are excellent, but sometimes they aren't strong enough to give you specific results. That's where herbal/green peels come in. They're stronger than an enzyme peel, yet still safer than using the chemical ones. You'll have to visit a doctor or medi-spa to receive treatment, though.
WHAT THEY'RE MADE OF
These peels contain carbohydrates, enzymes, mineral salts, proteins, tannins, phytohormones, vitamins, and trace elements. The results of these peels last long because microparticles from the herbs are absorbed deep into the skin and remain active over a long time.
Herbal peels give you a radiant look with little downtime and little discomfort. Note: For professional treatments, you can do a mild peel once a week, but maintenance peels (these usually are stronger) should only be done once a month.
Organic peels
An enzyme peel is technically a form of an organic peel. There are also stronger versions that contain natural ingredients that encourage exfoliation. These include lactic, salicylic, glycolic, and alpha hydroxy acids.
INGREDIENTS IN ORGANIC PEELS
A good number of formulas blend several of the ingredients mentioned above, and hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and other extracts to target specific skin conditions.
You can find various organic peels for home use, unlike green peels. Some spas use professional-strength versions, as well. In terms of how your skin reacts and how frequently you can use it, this depends on the strength and composition of the peel.
Professional-grade peels need you to consult your skincare expert, while over-the-counter peels are safe enough to use once a week for 15-25 minutes.
Precautions
As with other skin products, you need to conduct a patch test first to gauge potential reactions. If you experience excessive irritation, rinse off the product immediately with cold water.
POST-PEEL CARE
After using any peel, follow through with a heavy moisturizer and sunscreen if you're going outside. We recommend that you stay out of direct sunlight for the next 72 hours because your skin is now more sensitive and likely to burn. Avoid exfoliation for several days since the peel removed an abundance of dead skin cells. Makeup, too, is a no-go zone, as it can irritate the skin and cause infections. Avoid intense exercise for at least 24 hours- body heat can heighten the results of the peel.
Most importantly, speak to your doctor if you're taking any medication. Some meds can have adverse reactions to certain peel ingredients.
CAUTION
At Sole Toscana, we believe that natural is better. However, before trying aggressive treatments such as peels, make sure you carry out due diligence.
Research on the type of peel and referrals for a medical professional with a good track record.
With love,
The Sole Toscana Beauty Team
