
Chemical Peels
My skin needs some deep exfoliating action: I have rough, dry patches of dead skin and lots of nasty little bumps under the surface. I have been thinking about having a facial peel as no amount of scrubbing seems to do the trick. What kind of thing do I need, and how much does it cost?
You have several options: Find a good good beautician, who will talk to you about your skin. It may be that you just need a revitalising facial, but she/he will be better able to guide you towards your desired treatment. Facial peels remove dead skin cells and promote new cell growth, resulting in fresher, smoother skin. Peels work by loosening the 'glue' which binds the dead cells to your skin. The kind you are looking for is a 'Light' peel, called an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid). There are several types, including glycolic acid (found in sugar cane), lactic acid (found in sour milk), citric acid and Retin-A (derived from vitamin A). These products can be bought for home use, and typically range from 30-50% strength, prices start at around £15. For a stonger, more effective peel, you need to undergo professional treatment: This is technically a cosmetic procedure, and should be done by a qualified physician. Prices will vary according to the clinic and the treatment persued, but expect to pay around £150 per session. Generally speaking, a course of six sessions are recommended, over six weeks. This may not apply to your needs, but do the maths anyway. Your skin may well become sensitive after the peel, which also causes temporary redness.
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