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Home exfoliations are an option to combat various cosmetic skin problems. However, they require care. We tell you.
Having smoother, younger and brighter skin is possible, thanks to the work done by chemical exfoliation, which can also be done at home. This type of peeling, As the name implies, uses different chemicals to remove the outermost layer of the skin.
Although these treatments are done by dermatologists or estheticians, some cosmetic brands have brought the substances, in low concentrations, to their products. So these can be used at home without major complications.
Having fewer open pores and reducing fine lines are some of the benefits of a chemical peel at home. The acids that the most free-form marketed are glycolic, lactic, and mandelic, among others less abrasive.
How does a chemical peel work?
An exfoliation or peeling chemical is a technique in which a chemical with a pH higher than that of the skin is used. The latter is around the value of 2. The purpose is to remove dead cells, leading to the top part coming off.
The result? Smoother, less wrinkled skin with open pores. Likewise, there is a greater hydration and revitalization of the tissues.
Types of chemical peels
There are different variations of the peeling chemicals. Let’s see the most common ways.
Superficial
This type of peeling it is recommended for more sensitive skins or that only seek to reduce minor problems, such as texture or discoloration from the sun. In this procedure substances such as alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid or mandelic.
Its biggest advantage is that it does not require a lot of application time. Also, the risk of certain problems, such as inflammation or itching, is lower.
Median
In this type of exfoliation you cross the epidermis to reach the middle layer of the skin: the dermis. The most commonly used solutions are those with greater depth capacity, such as glycolic acid and TCA. Medium peels are optimal for treating finer wrinkles, skin blemishes, and scars.
Deep
The deep process requires a professional, since it tends to have higher risks and requires sedation. On the other hand, the chemical substances applied are phenol and trichloroacetic acid, which help reduce age spots, more marked wrinkles, freckles and scars.
Some substances used in chemical peels at home
Surely you are already wondering what are the safe substances to perform a chemical peel at home. Here we leave you the list of those that are most marketed for this purpose:
- Lactic acid: It is a substance that contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), which makes the skin hydrate better and have a greater softness. They are useful for preventing wrinkles or treating simple expression lines. Also, it works better than glycolic acid against hyperpigmentation.
- Mandelic acid: is a chemical that helps fight acne and hyperpigmentation, without actually irritating the skin. It usually enhances its effect when combined with salicylic acid.
- Glycolic Acid: Although it depends on its concentration, glycolic acid is used in medium peels. Increases collagen production and reduces wrinkles.
- Salicylic acid: Its greatest strength is that it unclogs pores and is soluble in oil. This aspect makes it one of the favorite substances to treat acne problems.
- Enzymes: This type of exfoliation is the most natural and least risky of all. Improves the appearance of the skin and opens pores.
Risks and Side Effects of Home Chemical Peel
Although most of the products to do peeling at home they come in low concentrations, the skin can be hypersensitive to some of its components. This leads to irritation and swelling, as well as scarring and even fungal and bacterial infections.
Chemical peels are not recommended for everyone. Consultation with a specialist is necessary if the following occur:
- History of cold sores frequently.
- Dark skin.
- Isotretinoin has been taken for acne in the past 6 months.
- There is a history of keloids.
How to do it correctly at home?
Chemical peels at home they should not be part of a constant beauty routine. And although the application time varies according to each product, it is not advisable to do peels more than once a week.
To complement this, it is very helpful to first go to a dermatologist or esthetician who has precise technical knowledge. Here are some steps to take cautiously:
- Get a product that has the right ingredients to meet the need of your skin. For example, if you want to improve tone or reduce acne, opt for glycolic or lactic acid.
- Read the product label and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Do a test first. If your skin is sensitive, use the substance behind the ear or on the forearm to see that it does not cause burns or irritations.
- Gently cleanse skin and remove makeup. Do not leave residues of other products.
- Avoid using retinoids or vitamin C for 2-3 days before peeling.
When to see a professional?
To treat larger conditions, such as very pronounced wrinkles or scars, or if better results are required, it is best to consult a professional. In addition, although it is normal to feel itching or tingling and have a little red skin, if abnormal scaling, swelling or scars is detected, you should go to a specialist for help.
Finally, chemical peels at home can provide many of the same benefits as a chemical peel at home. peeling chemical performed by a dermatologist. But nevertheless, Being acids, the active ingredients in each product can lead to conditions. That is why it is important to follow the step-by-step described.
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