Types of peelings: their application and effectiveness

It has been experimentally proven that if you carefully remove the top layer of dermal cells, the skin begins an active restoration process, and its appearance will noticeably change for the better, becoming younger, smoother and more beautiful. The procedure for artificially removing the upper epithelium is called peeling. Modern cosmetology offers a wide range of procedures that allow women to become more and more beautiful. To make it easier to navigate this wealth, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the most popular methods.

Glycolic peeling

This is a superficial type of chemical peel that contains glycolic acid. Its main advantage is that it works equally well on everyone skin types.

The active acid molecule is very short, which allows it to penetrate the skin and moisturize it. In addition, this procedure works as an antioxidant and activates the production of elastin and other valuable compounds. General positive action glycolic peeling is expressed in the fact that the complexion improves and evens out, the relief becomes more even, and small wrinkles leave their owner.

Some time before the procedure, you need to prepare your skin. How exactly to do this - you need to check with a specialist who will then plan the peeling. He will give accurate recommendations based on individual skin characteristics.

Glycolic peeling is done in courses that include from four to ten procedures, but for some one is enough, everything is very individual.

The procedure itself takes place in several stages:

1. A weak acid solution is applied, the purpose of which is to soften and degrease the skin.
2. The second layer is evenly applied with the glycolic gel itself, which remains in effect for several minutes.
3. In the third stage, the glycol gel is removed with a special neutralizing solution.

It is worth noting that the procedure is comfortable, because during the procedure the client does not feel any unpleasant or painful sensations. There are, of course, exceptions, but this can be easily eliminated by applying a light stream of air to the problem area.

Almond peeling

Almond peeling is quite mild and can only exfoliate the upper stratum corneum of the dermis. It cannot be classified as an aggressive type of peeling, since the composition has low molecular acidity. The main active ingredient is phenoxyglycoic acid, also known as mandelic acid, which belongs to the group of fruit acids. The composition is obtained from bitter almonds by extraction. The softness of the peeling is due to the size of the molecule, which in this case is much larger than that of glycolic acid, due to which it cannot penetrate deep into the skin without irritating the latter. This type of peeling can be considered one of the softest types, which allows you to rejuvenate the skin and is perfect even for sensitive dermis.

The main advantages of almond peeling include:

• almost complete absence of irritation after the procedure, and if there is any, it will be very insignificant;
• shows high effectiveness against acne and pimples;
• can be done in the summer and not be afraid of getting pigmentation;
• it is permissible to perform the procedure even for rosacea.

Almond peeling can be done at absolutely any age. Acting gently on the skin, it will not cause harm. After the procedure, you can notice a significant improvement in complexion, narrowing of pores, a decrease in the number of rashes and the disappearance of light wrinkles. However, despite the “ease” of the procedure, after almond peeling it is necessary to do restorative procedures, which include the process of nourishing and moisturizing the dermis.

There are few contraindications for almond peeling, these are:

• existing skin irritations;
• infection of the body with viral infections;
• acute form of skin diseases.

Experts do not recommend performing any peeling on tanned skin; you need to wait until the tan completely disappears from the body.

The almond peeling procedure is performed in several stages.

1. Complete cleansing of the skin from cosmetics, dirt and fat. To do this, use tonic or milk, which contains 10% mandelic acid.
2. Then a preliminary peeling procedure is performed, which evens out the structure of the skin and also allows you to determine the reaction of the dermis to the composition. It contains 5% almond acid and the same amount of glycolic and lactic acids. Application occurs using a cotton pad.
3. Then the preliminary peeling is removed and the composition itself is applied, the acid content of which is increased to 30%. The mass is rubbed into the skin with your fingertips. Then the acid is removed with ordinary cool water. All this can take from 10 minutes to half an hour.
4. Soothe the skin with special creams, such as Panthenol. Simple twenty-minute masks based on calendula show good results.

At first, the skin may dry out, which is a normal reaction; again, a nourishing cream will help. A complete list of recommendations for caring for the dermis at the end of the peeling procedure will be compiled by the cosmetologist who supervised the session.

Retinoic peeling (yellow)

One of the types of chemical peeling, which is based on retinoic acid. Often this procedure is simply called yellow peeling. To obtain and maintain the effect, the procedure should be performed about twice a year, lasting three to five sessions. The procedure is indicated for women aged 35-50 years, but that’s not all. Persons under 35 years of age retinoic peeling shown when:

• some skin diseases;
• excessive activity of the sebaceous glands;
• pimples and acne;
• the appearance of the first facial wrinkles and other destructive changes;
• presence of scars;
• existing skin pigmentation.

The main advantages of yellow peeling are:

• Security. In its composition, the active acid resembles the well-known vitamin A, so it does not act so aggressively on the skin. There are other acids in peeling preparations, but their quantity is minimal.
• Efficiency. Most cosmetologists recommend this type of peeling first if rejuvenation is needed. It has been experimentally observed that in most cases, the effect of one or two procedures with retinoic acid is equal to the effect of ten procedures with glycolic acid. And the result remains unchanged for up to four months.
• Fast recovery. An ideal option to quickly become beautiful, because everything takes only one or two days. Considering that this usually takes 5-6 days, these figures are very good.
• Softness. Retinoic peeling has a gentle effect on the skin, although it ultimately gives amazing results.

The main contraindications to the procedure are:

• tan;
• acute form of herpes;
• allergic reaction to vitamin C;
• intolerance to the components included in the peeling;
• severe illness and liver failure;
• existing damage to the skin.

Carbon peeling

To some extent, an innovative method of combating signs of aging, as well as skin imperfections. The carbon peeling process is a laser type of procedure that can be successfully combined with photorejuvenation. With its help, you can seriously improve the condition of your facial skin, which will become significantly smoother and acquire a uniform color.

Among other things, carbon peeling has healing properties. With its help you can get rid of:

• rosacea;
• acne;
• eels.

Before prescribing the procedure, you should definitely consult a cosmetologist, who will examine the skin and tell you whether you can use carbon peeling, or whether you should give preference to another option. The peeling itself is carried out in two stages:

1. First, a thin layer of carbon nanogel is applied to the patient's skin, which prepares the dermis for laser exposure. The keratinized layers of the skin are exfoliated. At the same stage, inflammatory processes are removed.
2. Next, the laser itself is put into operation. Under light pulses, photothermolysis occurs, i.e. the skin warms up at a deep level. It is worth noting that such laser flashes promote the production of collagen and elastin, thereby increasing the firmness and elasticity of the skin.

All this takes about half an hour. The number of required sessions, which are carried out at intervals of five days, is about five.

The main advantages of the procedure are:

• quick results that become obvious after the first session;
• there is no need for a rehabilitation period;
• after carbon peeling, peeling and redness do not appear on the skin;
• During the session, the patient does not feel any discomfort or pain.

Serious reasons to refuse carbon peeling are: the period of breastfeeding and pregnancy, the presence of inflammatory processes, cancer, diseases in a severe and chronic stage, colloid-type scars.

Salicylic peeling

One of the oldest, most popular and simplest types of chemical peeling can be called salicylic. It has a positive effect on the structure of the dermis, evening out skin color and smoothing out the relief. After a course of procedures, you will notice that the work of the sebaceous glands has returned to normal, the pores have narrowed, pimples and blackheads may disappear completely, just like the traces from them. If retinoic peeling is often used for older skin, then salicylic peeling is a friend of young skin.

It is impossible to say unambiguously how many procedures will be required, because this number is prescribed by a cosmetologist. To solve each problem, an individual approach is required. The interval between courses also depends on this. For example, to treat seborrheic dermatitis, at least eight sessions are required with a period of one to two weeks. But with hyperkeratosis, the interval is reduced to a week, or even less, and the number of sessions is about five to seven.

There are two types of salicylic peeling: liquid is used in facial skin care, and paste is used for rough skin of elbows, knees, body and hands. Salicylic peeling is very effective, versatile, can be used at almost any age, and is suitable for both light and dark skin. It is so simple that many women do not resort to the help of specialists and do it themselves at home. But it is worth keeping in mind that the side effects include: swelling, burning, peeling, but all this goes away within a couple of days.

Any chemical peeling is a micro burn of the skin, so mandatory care is required after the procedure, which includes care with nourishing and moisturizing creams and masks. More detailed and individual advice can be obtained from a professional cosmetologist.

Milk peeling

Milk and dairy products are very popular in facial and body skin care, so it is not at all surprising that milk peeling. The main active ingredient in the composition is lactic acid. Considering that our body produces it independently, the procedure does not cause any negative consequences and everything happens painlessly. Such peeling can be carried out not only under the supervision of a specialist, but also at home. The visibility of the effect does not come immediately, but only after a few weeks, so you will have to be patient.

This is a superficial type of peeling, so you shouldn’t expect special miracles, such as eliminating scars, wrinkles and severe pigmentation, but with its help you can seriously even out your skin tone, moisturize and nourish it. Serious skin imperfections, of course, will become somewhat less noticeable, but it will not be possible to completely get rid of them in this way; heavy artillery is needed here. You can give preference to milk peeling if you have:

• acne or pimples;
• weak expression wrinkles;
• dry and flabby skin;
• barely noticeable stretch marks;
• lack of elasticity and firmness of the skin;
• ugly complexion.

Milk peeling improves the skin of not only the face, but also the neck, décolleté, and hands. Lactic acid sessions are especially good for those who are prone to allergies and for this reason cannot use other self-care options. The mild effect of such peeling does not cause itching or irritation. The best results are obtained from those who are under 30; for those who are older, it is better to choose more effective methods.

Contraindications to milk peeling are: pregnancy and lactation, diabetes, presence of wounds, cracks, scratches, etc. at the site of the procedure, cancer and skin diseases, active form of herpes.

Enzyme peeling

Despite the fact that enzyme peeling can eliminate a wide range of skin problems, it is a gentle procedure. It has few contraindications. Regular use leads to the fact that the skin becomes smooth, acquires an even tone, redness and peeling cease to bother, and the overall tone significantly increases. Enzyme peeling has proven to work well with sensitive skin that cannot tolerate aggressive influences.

Its main principle of action is to dissolve dead skin particles, which is achieved due to the presence of enzymes in the composition.  Peeling preparations contain fruit acids and other substances that work very effectively.

Enzyme peeling is universal; it is suitable for both young and relatively aged skin. With its help, you can get rid of acne and blackheads, scars and post-acne marks, age spots, and normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands in a short time. For women over 30, enzyme peeling makes it possible to maintain beauty without damaging the skin.

Enzyme peeling is simple to do, however, it is better to consult a professional cosmetologist. This is due to the fact that the specialist always has professional preparations in his arsenal; he will be able to correctly combine the components and control the entire process. In terms of time, the procedure lasts on average from twenty minutes to half an hour, depending on what exactly is used in the process - powder or gel. If everything is done correctly, high-quality cosmetics are used for the procedure, then the patient does not experience any unpleasant sensations during the session, except for a very slight burning and tingling sensation, which is quite normal.

Fruit peeling

Peeling received such an appetizing name due to the fact that the preparations mainly contain fruit acids. Peeling with fruit acids can be either superficial or intermediate.

Popular acids include:

• Wine. Contained in oranges, very old wine, grapes. This composition perfectly exfoliates, moisturizes and whitens.
• Dairy. Found in blueberries, apples, tomatoes and, of course, dairy products. It can be used to moisturize and whiten the skin.
• Apple. Available in apples and tomatoes. This acid not only perfectly exfoliates the skin, but also allows it to be restored at the cellular level.
• Glycolic. The acid is found in sugar cane and green grapes. Low molecular weight allows the composition to penetrate deep into the skin and remove pigmentation.
• Lemon. This acid is found in most citrus fruits. If you combine it with wine, it will be a wonderful cocktail for whitening your skin.

To achieve better results, fruit peeling includes several acids that complement each other. In any case, the spectrum of action of fruit peeling is very wide, so it is used both to eliminate age-related changes and to improve general condition. To notice significant changes, it is necessary to conduct about 8-11 sessions with breaks per week. It all depends on the initial state of the dermis and the sensitivity of the body. The cosmetologist himself will tell you which acids to use after he evaluates the skin and identifies problems that need to be solved.

For several weeks after the session, you should not be in the sun for a long time, as there is a risk of pigmentation, so you must use special creams with UV protection. During the recovery period, you must strictly follow the care recommendations given by the cosmetologist; this will help you undergo rehabilitation faster and notice the result.

Diamond peeling

This is a hardware type of peeling that allows you to most effectively cleanse the skin of dirt, peeling and eliminate existing imperfections. This name was obtained because the nozzles of the device used for the procedure are coated with diamond. It is impossible to carry out such a procedure at home, so you will have to work hard at the stage of finding a professional. “Grinding” shows amazing results if desired:

• get rid of freckles and other pigmentation;
• smooth out wrinkles and even out skin texture;
• improve complexion and make it smoother;
• tighten the oval of the face;
• tighten pores and remove scars.

There are no serious age restrictions for this procedure, except perhaps reasonableness. For example, up to 25 years of age there is no serious need for diamond peeling, so you can give preference to more gentle options for procedures.

As in most cases, everything happens in three stages:

1. Skin preparation. Cleansing, steaming and distributing moisturizer. All preparatory procedures are aimed at achieving maximum effect in the process itself.
2. The peeling procedure itself. Various brushes are used that rotate around their axis and carefully cleanse the skin. The specialist, as a rule, has at least 10 different attachments in his arsenal, which allow him to cleanse the skin even in the most difficult to reach places.
3. The session ends with the application of a nourishing and moisturizing composition. Since the skin becomes permeable after diamond peeling, all active components from the mask easily penetrate and give quick results.

All manipulations take about 40 minutes. After this, you need to carefully monitor your skin and follow all the specialist’s recommendations. You can’t use cosmetics liberally for some time, and it’s generally better to avoid foundation during the healing period; prolonged exposure to the sun without special protective cosmetics, etc., is contraindicated.

Gas-liquid peeling

This is a non-contact type of peeling, where the skin is exposed using compressed gas and a medicinal solution. The advantage of the procedure is its versatility, because with its help you can not only cleanse and polish the dermis of the face, but also eliminate problems in certain areas of the body, or introduce vitamins and beneficial acids under the skin.

The procedure is performed using a device with a special nozzle through which a gas mixture consisting of carbon dioxide and oxygen is sprayed under a pressure of 8 atmospheres and at a speed of up to 300 m/sec. The solution may consist of a medicinal solution or a vitamin mixture. A huge advantage is the high efficiency of the procedure, because serious positive results are observed after 1-2 procedures. Gas-liquid peeling can also correct problem areas on the body, such as buttocks, abdomen, arms, décolleté, etc. It is very useful to conduct such a session before a solarium or a trip to the sea, as this will guarantee that the tan will lie evenly.

The procedure is completely painless, and the list of indications is quite wide. Recommended for:

• sagging skin and premature aging;
• deep and fine wrinkles;
• acne and post-acne;
• uneven skin;
• cellulite;
• the need to heal wounds and burns;
• dull complexion;
• hair loss and seborrhea;
• presence of bags under the eyes;
• presence of stretch marks.

Ultrasonic peeling

Nowadays, most salons can offer clients sonic cleansing not only of the face, but of the entire body. The procedure is performed with a special device that produces ultrasonic waves of a certain frequency. There is no need to worry, it will not cause any damage to your health. But this approach allows you to very gently cleanse the skin by removing the upper epidermis. The client does not experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure.

Ultrasonic peeling stages:   Cleansing the skin with mineral water, which penetrates into the deep layers of the dermis and brings dirt to the surface.

1. Next comes cleaning with the device. The patient feels nothing except a slight pleasant vibration. This helps open pores and remove impurities.
2. A noticeable result will appear after the first procedure. It will be possible to consolidate the effect with subsequent sessions, which are performed a couple of weeks apart.

Indications for ultrasonic peeling:

acne;

• dull complexion;
• strong pigmentation;
• enlarged pores;
• aging skin;
• swelling;
• wrinkles;
• black dots;
• excessive sebum production;
• dehydrated skin.

Ultrasonic peeling is so gentle that it is suitable for even the thinnest and most sensitive skin. The visible result will be noticeable after the first procedure, but it is better not to stop there and consolidate the effect a couple of weeks after the first procedure. Ideally, complete five to seven sessions.