The skin is the largest organ in our body. It is made up of millions of cells that protect us from the environment and regulate our body temperature. Every day thousands of cells die, flake off and are replaced by new cells from beneath the skin. As we age, this process begins to slow down. Our skin may become dull, blotchy, pigmented, fine lines and other signs of sun damage and aging begin to appear. Chemical peels have been used for over a hundred years to create an even and controlled shedding of damaged skin cells. A chemical peel uses a solution applied to the skin to remove dead skin cells and stimulate the production of new skin cells. Lindsay performs chemical peels for her clients to tighten skin, reduce wrinkles/fine lines and pigmentation as well as to help restore moisture and promote a firmer, youthful, glowing appearance.
Chemical Peels come in 3 different depths:
PROGRESSIVE - A progressive skin peel is the mildest course of treatment, removing only the outer layer of the stratum corneum with no visible peeling. Repeated treatments on a regular schedule, up to once a week, will cause mild exfoliation for the skin with cumulative effects. This is best described as a mild, yet refining, peel.
MID DEPTH - A mid-depth skin peel targets the intra-epidermal layer and may be administered every four to six weeks as needed. Light flaking may occur, similar to a sunburn peel. Mid-depth peels offer excellent rejuvenating effects with minimal to no down time.
DEEP - A deep skin peel reaches the deepest intra-epidermal layers where skin peels in large segments. Skin becomes brown and crusted prior to considerable peeling, occurring three to four days after application. The typical recovery period lasts seven to ten days, with the treatment allowed up to twice per year. A deep peel restores and renews skin with the most dramatic results.
Different Types of Peeling Solutions :
. JESSNER'S .
A mild and cosmetic, oil base peel to treat aged and/or sun damaged skin. As well as to make hyper-pigmented areas lighter for an overall smoother, even more consistent look of the skin. Jessner solutions usually consist of a combination of resorcinol, salicylic acid and lactic acid. Those with particularly oily skin (oil attracts oil) often especially benefit from a Jessner’s peel. This is because it tends to open up clogged pores and reduce oil production. Since plugged sebaceous follicles and excess oil are common factors in acne, this type of peel tends to aid in the healing of acne conditions. Type of peeling solution will be determined by Lindsay after a thorough skin analysis and consultation is performed.
- PCA Peel Hydroquinone Free - Ideal for more sensitive skin types, ethnic skin or for those allergic to hydroquinone. This treatment will help to unclog pores, clear and rejuvenate the skin. With its blend of brighteners and alpha/ beta hydroxy acid, it also is an excellent choice for correcting pigment discolorations and maintaining an even complexion or for those who do not like the use of or have sensitivities to hydroquinone.
- PCA Peel w/Hydroquinone - Ideal for those who want an even skin tone and have no sensitivity to hydroquinone. It will help to quickly lightning pigment discolorations of any kind, such as melasma and acne scarring. In addition, this peel helps inhibit active acne and correct post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne.
- PCA Peel w/Hydroquinone & Resorcinol - The most potent of our enhanced Jessner's formulas, this peel will even skin tone and provide more exfoliation for oilier, thicker and more resilient skin types. It is extremely effective on sun damage and thickened skin. It is also excellent for those with active cystic acne and asphyxiated skin (dry on the surface. oilier underneath) or for those who require a deeper exfoliating treatment.
. TCA .
Trichloroacetic Acid, which is a stronger water based, acidic acid. Unlike light alpha hydroxy acid peels, a TCA peel works more deeply and addresses skin flaws such as aging skin, fine lines/wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, dehydration and acne; especially in drier skin. When used alone, it is much preferred for olive or darker ethnicities. Type of peeling solution will be determined by Lindsay after a thorough skin analysis and consultation is performed.
- PCA Sensi Peel - A gentle solution formulated primarily for ethnic skin as well as all other sensitive skin types. Will strengthen and brighten the skin while helping to treat sun damaged and other forms of hyperpiguentaion. Also provides anti-inflammatory, anti acne and antibacterial action making it an excellent option for helping to calm Rosacea, as redness and inflammation can subside substantially after treatment. Produces little to no reaction on the skin. After treatment the skin looks smooth, dewy and hydrated. One of Lindsay's favorite peeling solutions to pair with Dermaplane.
- Ultra Peel I - Specially formulated to treat dry, dehydrated, mature skin. Also appropriate for many other skin types, conditions and sensitivities. It will help treat pigment, fine lines/ wrinkles, sun damaged skin and acne. This treatment is especially ideal for sensitive skin. Mild to moderate exfoliation will be experienced, depending on the number of layers applied. Producing skin that is plump, hydrated and luminous.
. VITAMIN A / RETINOL .
These peels create mild occlusions on the skin to break up dead surface cells and to promote an even, smoother texture. The solutions also supply antioxidants and rich actives into the skin for maximum benefits and exfoliation. The retinol content also increases cell turnover, deep exfoliation and hydration all while stimulating collagen to keep skin looking fresh and clear. PCA Skin and Rhonda Allison retinol peels have a unique blend of polyphenols, antioxidants, vitamins, humectants and brightening agents that leaves skin glowing.
. FLOWER ACIDS .
Flower acids are the next generation of acids that resemble some of the benefits of AHA's, but with additional cellular support. Hibiscus is known to provide additional cellular turnover, stimulate cell regeneration and boost the production of glycosaminoglycans, increasing hydration levels within the skin. This acid does all of this without causing irritation on even those with more sensitive skins. Lotus flower is another acid that is used in Rhonda Allison formulations. This flower extract is revered in Asian cultures and considered the plant of renowned beauty. This flower acid closely mimics the human body's hemoglobin and through a cellular reaction it helps slow down the formation of tyrosinase activity, lightening pigmentation.
. RED WINE VINEGAR & SAKE FERMENT .
Red wine vinegar extract also has many benefits when used in acid formulations. Rich in resveratrol, this unique acid boosts anti-inflammatory support and stimulates cellular turnover and collagen synthesis. It is excellent for refining the skin and providing firming and toning benefits on fine lines, wrinkles, and enlarged pores. While Sake on the other hand has been used for centuries by Geisha's to exfoliate their skin. This unique acid yields low molecular peptides which protect and smooth the skin. Rich in ferulic acid providing antioxidant support, this acid delivers cellular support for many skin types.
*** Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. When will I start peeling, for how long and how much?
A. Everyone's experience is so different. You do not have to "peel" to get the benefits of a peel. The peeling is a side effect that not everyone experiences. On average, you may notice mild flaking, very similar to the way a sunburn would flake by day 2 or 3, it is possible to see flaking for up to 5 to 6 days.
Q. How irritating is a peel?
A. PCA peeling solutions used are self neutralizing and stay on the skin. They are very mild. You may experience a very mild stinging, tingling or itchy sensation which will subside in a matter of minutes. Use of a fan will help with this.
Q. My skin is very thin and fragile. Why would I want a peel? Wouldn't that make my skin thinner?
A. Actually, No. If you skin is dry and thin, often times there is a buildup of dead skin cells that inhibits your at home skincare products from penetrating and doing their job, resulting in a weakened barrier. Which is no good. Having a peel done will remove the surface buildup, hydrate the skin and give it a plumper "thicker" appearance. Peels also stimulate collagen, especially when paired with Vitamin C. This collagen production will help build the cellular wall making your skin stronger and more durable.