Chemical peels may be as old as time, as the chances of us knowing one or several who have had a chemical peel are great.
However, chemical peels have come a long way since gaining attention in the UK around the 1960s and 1970s, and they are by no means one-size-fits-all anymore!
From gentle to extreme, chemical peels can now be customised to give your skin the precise peeling it needs. At Be Beauty Bar, our chemical peels have been popular, and we would love to explain why.
A chemical peel is an aesthetic treatment that uses a specific chemical solution applied to the skin to gently yet effectively remove its to player, revealing newer, healthier, and clearer skin beneath.
Chemical peels vary in intensity and are typically classified into three categories: superficial, medium, and deep. Mandelic acid and salicylic acid peels are classified as superficial peels.
Mandelic acid, derived from bitter almonds, is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) known for its gentle exfoliating properties. Mandelic acid has a larger molecular size than other AHAs, such as glycolic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from sugarcane). This characteristic makes it less penetrating and milder, making it an excellent choice for sensitive skin or those new to chemical peels.
Due to its unique properties, a mandelic acid peel offers several skin benefits. It provides gentle exfoliation, which is slow and even, minimising irritation and redness. It also brightens, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or conditions such as rosacea, eczema, and hyperpigmentation.
Additionally, mandelic acid effectively treats age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It also possesses antimicrobial properties that help reduce acne-causing bacteria and clear clogged pores, thereby decreasing the occurrence of breakouts.
The best part? Mandelic peels can improve skin texture by smoothing fine lines and promoting collagen production, leading to a firmer and more youthful appearance!
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from salicin, a compound found in willow bark. Unlike AHAs, BHAs are oil-soluble, allowing them to penetrate deep into the pores. This makes salicylic acid particularly effective for addressing acne and oily skin concerns.
Similar to mandelic acid peels, a salicylic acid chemical peel also offers several key benefits for skincare. Its oil-soluble nature allows it to penetrate deeply into the pores, where it dissolves excess sebum and removes debris, making it highly effective for treating acne and preventing future breakouts.
Salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne and can benefit individuals with inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis. It promotes the exfoliation of dead skin cells, enhancing cell turnover and revealing a brighter, smoother complexion while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Furthermore, by controlling oil production, salicylic acid helps to minimise shine and maintain a matte appearance throughout the day. Salicylic acid peels can be used regularly, but the frequency depends on the strength of the peel and, ultimately, your skin type.
When deciding between a mandelic and salicylic peel, it is important to consider your skin type and specific concerns. Mandelic peels are particularly well-suited for individuals with sensitive skin, those showing signs of hyperpigmentation, or early signs of ageing.
On the other hand, salicylic peels are ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types and are highly effective at deeply cleansing pores, managing acne, and controlling oil production.
Both types of peels can be incorporated into a comprehensive skincare routine to achieve the best results. Please consult with one of our skin specialists to help you select the most appropriate peel for your skin type and desired outcomes.
Both mandelic and salicylic chemical peels are exceptional aesthetic treatments that offer targeted benefits for different skin concerns with little to no discomfort or downtime.
Loved by many, superficial peels are among our go-to treatments at Be Beauty Bar. They provide exceptional results that highlight natural beauty.
Whether you choose a mandelic or a salicylic peel, these treatments can reduce fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production, resulting in a more youthful complexion. Peels are also highly effective in evening skin tone, fading hyperpigmentation, and brightening dull skin for a radiant glow.
Regular use can improve skin elasticity, minimise pore size, and provide excellent acne control by unclogging pores and reducing breakouts.
If you would like to know even more about these magical skin-rejuvenating treatments, never hesitate to contact our team!
Monday - Saturday
09:00 - 19:00
Monday - Saturday 09:00 - 19:00
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