Re: I Did a Glycolic Acid Peel Last Night and now...HELP!!!
I'm really reluctant about doing the peel myself and don't want to spend a fortune on it. So yay to group-on- coupon type of offers!
@Paheli00 ; if given the following options - which would be best? I know they haven't indicated the concentration for the peels except for glycolic - but in general, of the three - which one is the most effective?
Glycolic Peel: Glycolic acid has the smallest molecular particle size, is the most potent of AHA’s and thus penetrates more effectively and deeply than any other AHA. For this reason, the Biophora Glycolic Peel is designed to target Element Exposed / Normal Aging skin conditions for patients who desire faster results. Available in 20%, 30%, 40% and 50% concentrations.
Salicylic Peel: Different from Glycolic or Lactic acids, Salicylic acid works within the deeper layers of the skin and is best suited for acneic skin. Salicylic acid is an antibacterial, oil soluble solution which is considered one of the best peels for relieving acne conditions.
Lactic Peel: Lactic acid is much larger in molecular size, cannot penetrate as fast or as deeply as Glycolic acid, and is considered a moisturizing agent. For these reasons, Lactic acid is best suited for people who require a less aggressive exfoliation and milder approach to skin rejuvenation. A gradual smoothing, brightening, and clearing of skin blemishes will be accomplished.
It depends on what the "issue" is. If you have good skin already.....then lactic is a great, gentle peel (you can start with 40% or 50%). This is also the best choice for people who have SUPER sensitive skin. Glycolic is a good all around peel (for hyperpigmentaion, evening out skintone, fine lines etc) and it's not as strong as it seems if you do it right (on a side note: 20% isn't even worth doing. You should start at least at 30% or 40%...........get skin used to glycolic by using a OTC cream for a week or so).
Salicylic is best for people with severe acne and super oily skin. Please remember that salicylic is a different type of acid that glycolic/lactic and is stronger (hence the % is different...typically 20% salicylic is stronger than 40% glycolic).
Why are you reluctant to do them on yourself? Honestly...starting out with lactic or 30% glycolic is a great way to get the "hang" of it. And this is the cheapest way to do it. I pay like $11 dollar for 1/2 oz peels at MUAC....and each bottle lasts for multiple peels (versus you pay MUCH more for single peels from a "professional"). The only time I'd recommend going to a professional is if you needed a really high % of TCA (more than 21%) or for phenol (which wipes the pigment right off your face). Besides, I'd rather put acid on my own face then trust someone else to do it. :)
If you do decide to have it done, PLEASE make sure the people know what they're doing. Ask them simple questions like what % is it and at what pH. They should know this off the top of their head. Based on what you've read about this....ask them questions to see if they seem to know what they're talking about (ie. ask them about going out in the sun, ask them about using other products with acids or retin-a, ask them if you'll actually peel etc.). There are many horror stories on the web by people who had peels done by a "professional". So please make sure they know what they're doing.
