Skinceuticals glycolic + lactic gel peel

If your skin has fine lines, areas of dryness, uneven tone, large pores or is acne prone, SkinCeuticals glycolic peel may be the peel for you. SkinCeuticals Gel Peel GL treatments contain 20% glycolic and 10% lactic acids. To continually improve your skin texture, glycolic acid can also be mixed with daily moisturizers in lower concentrations.

What is a glycolic and lactic acid peel?

Glycolic acids are made from sugar cane, and are used only in topical treatments. Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that deeply penetrates the skin while stimulating the production of new collagen. Glycolic is an exfoliant that weakens lipids (fats) that hold dead skin cells together on the surface of the skin (epidermis). Removing the dead skin cells reveals live, smoother and even-toned skin beneath.

Lactic acid is derived from milk and although it has similar exfoliating benefits as glycolic acid, lactic acid also disinfects, helps skin retain moisture, and smoothens by breaking down keratin – an overabundance of which can lead to rough, thick skin texture.

SkinCeuticals Gel Peel GL provides the benefits of both AHAs in one convenient chemical peel treatment.

Benefits of glycolic peels

• ·       Rejuvenate the skin
• ·       Stimulate collagen production
• ·       Safe and effective for all skin types
• ·       Non-invasive
• ·       Painless treatment with minor side effects
• ·       Effective acne treatment
• ·       Requires no down time

Am I a good candidate?

• You are an excellent candidate for a glycolic peel if:
• ·       Your skin is dull, dry, or rough
• ·       You have clogged or enlarged pores
• ·       You are prone to acne
• ·       You wish to maintain skin’s even tone, fine pores, clarity

Glycolic peel / chemical peel contraindications:

You should not have a glycolic peel treatment if you have:

• ·       Sunburned skin
• ·       Skin inflammation or infections
• ·       Active acne
• ·       Unhealed wounds
• ·       Extremely sensitive skin
• ·       Recently used other AHAs
• ·       Pregnant
• ·       Have ever had skin cancer/cancer
• ·       Recently taken or will take Roaccutane. Having glycolic treatments while on Accutane increases the risks of scarring and irritation. You must discontinue Accutane for 6-months prior to a glycolic peel treatment.

Before the treatment

You will have a consultation prior to along with a patch test if you have not had a peel with us or if you have sensitive skin  - an appropriate peel for your skin type and skin problems will be chosen.

Most glycolic peels can be used year round, and can usually be safely applied before or after minimal exposure to the sun.

Ensure you understand chemical peel contraindications. If you have any doubts about your candidacy because of skin problems, medications, or skin sensitivity, talk to your Doctor.

What happens during the treatment?

Your therapist cleanses your skin and prepares it for your peel. The gel peel solution is then applied with a brush to your entire face (and any other areas to be treated).

Depending on the strength of the peel used, the gel will remain on your skin from 1 -10 minutes. You may feel some tingling, temporary stinging and itchiness. After about 1 minute, these sensations subside.

A customised vitamin C mask is applied.

Finally, your Therapist rinses your skin and applies moisturiser and sun block.

Treatment time: About 30 minutes.

After the treatment

• ·       Avoid heat such as a hot bath, sauna, or steam room for 24 hours post-treatment
•      Use skincare as recommended by your skincare Therapist.   
•      Avoid alcohol consumption and strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
• ·       It is recommended not to apply liquid makeup for 24 hours.
• ·       Some people notice mild flaking 2-3 days after the treatment.
• ·       Do not remove flaked skin by pulling, picking, or rubbing. This can cause discoloration and scarring.
• ·       Wash your face with a gentle cleanser daily.
• ·       Do not use wash cloths, mechanical scrubs, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, retinoid, skin lighteners, wax, or strong astringents for 7 days.
• ·       Do not have electrolysis treatments or use depilatories (chemical hair removal) for 7 days.
• ·       Avoid exposure to the sun as much as possible for 7 days.
• ·       Use SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every day, even if you avoid the sun.
• ·       Do not tan for at least 30 days.
• 
  

Recovery time: no downtime required. Your skin may appear pink and may tingle for a few hours after the treatment.

How many treatments will  I need?

A course of 4 treatments is recommended, 1-2 weeks apart.

1 treatment every few months is also recommended to maintain the skin.