Glycolic Acid Peels: Picking The Right Strength IV

We have written post about Glycolic Acid Peel Strengths 20%, 30%, 40% so now we will discus the medium strength 50% Glycolic Acid Peel.

This medium strength peel is perfect for the person whose skin can tolerate a stronger Glycolic acid peel, is mature, sun-damaged and has an uneven skin tone.  The Glycolic 50% Peel is an intermediate strength AHA peel.

Acid is a standard peel solution and is recommended for those who have sun damaged skin (i.e. a few sun spots and wrinlkes from years of sun worship) or are over 45 years old.  A tip that really works well, if you're unsure if you qualify for Glycolic 50% you can still use it but with the right skin peeling technique. 

Try the Glycolic Peel Kit and use the daily exfoliator everyday for 2 weeks to prep your skin and improve your tolerance to a glycolic acid peel - this alone will give you great results, especially when using the Hyaluronic Moisturizer daily.  Now when applying the glycolic peel for a very short time - less than one minute - and then observing over the next few days your skin's reaction, the appropriateness of the skin peel and how long to apply it will be much clearer to you. 

A very mild reaction will indicate you moderately extend the application time the next time you perform a peel. Little reaction indicates you have some tolerance and you can apply the Glycoclic peel for longer. This peeling method will help your skin to not be overly irritated from what may be too strong a peel solution for you to apply for extended periods.

 

If you are interested in learning more about chemical peels visit www.naturalskinshop.com or contact one of our helpful skin experts on Facebook (Kim or Kristen) or call toll free 888.514.5126 Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm EST.

Enlarged Pores No More!

Enlarged pores are not attractive but how do you get rid of them? The first step, understand why your pores have become enlarged.  Dirt, oil and dead skin cells trapped inside your pores cause them to look enlarged. This means you need to find a way to get all that unwanted dirt, oil and dead skin out of your pores and then find the perfect way to keep it out.

An AHA/BHA peel performed every 2-3 weeks can go deep into the pores and remove impurities to minimize the appearance of your pores. Use a daily glycolic or salicylic exfoliator can help keep those pores clean between peels!

Keeping your skin super hydrated helps too. Once a pore is dilated, you can't shrink it back but you can diminish the appearance. A hyaluronic serum will boost the epidermal water content thus "plumping" the skin up and making them look smaller. Consistent dehydration will cause further dilation, making them bigger....hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

If you are interested in learning more about skincare visit www.naturalskinshop.com or contact one of our helpful skin experts on Facebook (Kim or Kristen) or call toll free 888.514.5126 Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm  EST.

What Are Chemical Peels? How Do You Use Them?

What are chemical / skin peels?

Chemical peels produce controlled injury to the skin, which promote growth of new skin and improved appearance. A variety of chemicals can be used as peeling agents and include glycolic, trichloroacetic (TCA), salicylic and resorcinol. The different chemical solutions produce different degrees of injury to the skin.

What are chemical peels used for?

Chemical peels are used for the treatment of photo-aging (from sun damage), wrinkles, scarring, acne, precancerous lesions, and discoloration (including melasma, freckles, and age spots).

How are chemical peels performed?

There are numerous chemical peels and each one is performed differently. In general, chemical peels usually begin with vigorous cleansing of the skin, followed by application of the appropriate peel.

What is the most popular peel solution?

Glycolic Acid - probably due to the fact that all skin types benefit from Glycolic Acid - is the most commonly recognized chemical peel solution. Salicylic Acid is also very common for use in acne treatments.

How long do chemical peels take?

Most peels can be performed within a few minutes, depending on size of the area being treated.

What will my skin feel like after a chemical peel?

The state of your skin after a peel depends on the type of chemical used and your skin type. Superficial peels have limited effects. Medium peels may cause some redness and the deeper peels may require 10-14 days to recover.

How many peels will I need?

Generally chemical peels are done once every 2-3 weeks, until the desired results are achieved. Maintenance peels can then be performed once a month.

How long do the results last?

With good sun protection, results can last months, even years. This is dependent upon the depth of the peel. The deeper peels generally provide a long-lasting effect.

What are the risks of chemical peels?

Superficial peels are quite safe, although minor irritation of the skin can occur. The risk of deep peels can include infection, scarring, redness, and discoloration. During a very deep peel (administered under the care of a physician only), anesthesia should be used and vital signs monitored.

How long after a chemical peel before I can return to normal activities?

  A. Light Peels- The light peel takes approximately three to five days to complete the shedding process. No downtime required. 

  B. Medium Peels- Medium peels usually persist for five to seven days. The skin may or may not flake and fall away. AHAs can produce some redness with little or no flaking, depending on the individual.

  C. Deep Peels- May take several weeks to fully recover. This type of peel is usually effective in treating hyperpigmentation, acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles.

What should I use at home to maintain the condition of my skin after a chemical peel?

You can use a mild cleanser (Green Tea Cleanser) and always include either Hyaluronic Replenishing Serum / Green Tea Anti-Oxidant Serum as often as needed. You may resume regular skincare 3-5 days after a peel or once redness or peeling is no longer apparent. Sun protection is a must!

If you are interested in learning more about chemical peels visit www.naturalskinshop.com or contact one of our helpful skin experts on Facebook (Kim or Kristen) or call toll free 888.514.5126 Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm  EST.

Glycolic Acid Peels: Picking The Right Strength

If you are looking for more radiant, younger looking skin glycolic skin peels are for you. Glycolic skin peels produce great results but one must be careful to use the correct strength.  For those of you who are a bit nervous about using a chemical peel, either because you've never used them before or you're afraid your skin is too sensitive, this post should help.

20% Glycolic Acid Peel Kits are perfect for young sensitive skin and first time users. This kit comes with a medium grade chemical peel, daily use exfoliator and hyaluronic moisturizer.

Using a kit will help you heal faster and enhance the natural turnover process.  Ask anyone who has had a professional peel, your face can become very red and irritated making it difficult to go about your life without stares. Using a kit can help prevent this.  The daily exfoliator will help turn over skin cells and promote the effects of the peel while using the hyaluronic moisturizer helps soothe, nourish and moisturize post-peel.

Its important to remember that while glycoclic acid is a natural chemical its very potent and applying a peel can produce dramatic results.  Therefore, a first time user or someone with young sensitive skin should opt for the lightest peel kit.

If you are interested in learning more about glycolic acid peels visit www.naturalskinshop.com or contact one of our helpful skin experts on Facebook (Kim or Kristen) or call toll free 888.514.5126 Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm  EST.

Glycolic Acid Peels at Home

The average cost for an in office Glycolic Acid Peel is $125.  This can add up as, on average, you will need 6-8 peels before you start to see results. But there is good news, Glycolic Acid Peels can be done at home using the same products with the same strengths used by professionals but at a much reduced price.

When deciding to do an at home Glycolic Acid Peel you should do your research. If its your first time make sure to use a lower strength.  Natural Skin Shop has kits ranging from  20% light strength all the way up to the 70% maximum strength. 

Using Glyolic Acid Peel Kits rather than just the medical grade chemical peel itself is also a wise choice. Kits have been put together to provide the best overall results and the quickest healing time. Applying a peel can produce dramatic results - shedding dead, damaged cells and replacing them with new, softer skin for a more even skin tone and youthful appearance. To perform a treatment that will fully enhance the natural turnover process, you must also treat the skin during the "downtime", otherwise known as the period between peels. 

If you are interested in learning more about how a Glycolic Acid Peel can help improve your skin visit www.naturalskinshop.com or contact one of our helpful skin experts on Facebook (Kim or Kristen) or call toll free 888.514.5126 Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm  EST. 

Glycolic Acid & Skin Care Products - What it is, How it helps & Why you should try it

For those of you who have never heard of Glycolic Acid Skin Care Products listen up this will change the way you treat your skin!

WHAT IS GLYCOLIC ACID?

Glycolic Acid is a natural product derived from sugar cane and is fantastic for exfoliation and moisturizing of the skin.  It is the smallest a-hydroxy acid (AHA) and is both colorless and odorless.  

HOW GLYCOLIC ACID BENEFIT  SKIN:

Dermatologists and estheticians have been utilizing glycolic acid as an effective and proven tool in the fight against the aging process for decades. Alpha hydoxy acid peels, such as Glycolic help to reveal a younger, healthier looking skin by stimulating collagen and elastin growth, and accelerating the skin renewal process. Additionally, Glycolic Acid can be combined with other peeling agents, such as Salicylic Acid (this process is referred to as an Alpha-Beta Peel) for enhanced results. 

WHEN ITS YOUR FIRST TIME GLYCOLIC ACID USERS:

Glycolic peels are the perfect choice for at-home use with proper preparation, application, and post-treatment care. For those unfamiliar with at-home Glycolic treatments, we recommend using one of our daily care kits to get started.

If you have any questions about Glycolic Acid please leave a comment and we will be sure to get back to you.

SKIN CARE ORIENTATION

Kristina Holland-Natural Skin Shop’s skin savvy writer (& biggest fan!)


Every now and then, it may seem like you have missed the first day of skin care orientation. Should I pat or air dry? Is a toner absolutely necessary? Should I use hot or cold water to wash my face? These answers and more can make the difference between a complexion that glows and one that woes!

SKIN CARE RULES TO GLOW BY…
“Wash Your Troubles Away…With Lukewarm Water.”
Be sure to get a thorough cleanse with lukewarm water. Ice-cold water tightens pores thereby preventing your cleanser from penetrating deep into the pore-lining. This is particularly true for medicated cleansers, such as Peel Rx Alpha-Beta Cleanser, infused with tea tree oil and salicylic acid. On the opposite end, hot water can exasperate dry skin and acne conditions by weakening the lipid barrier. Extreme water temperatures in either direction can result in broken capillaries otherwise known as “telangiectasia”. Lukewarm water, neither too hot nor too cold, is a healthy choice for clear, beautiful skin! Follow a gentle cleansing with a splash of cool water for a refreshing, pore-tightening effect.
PS: Be careful not to over-cleanse and disturb the acid mantle!

“Tone Your Way to Extraordinarily Beautiful Skin.”
Toners are often disregarded as unnecessary, excessive and worthless. However, this common misunderstanding couldn’t be further from the truth! For most skin types, particularly those with special needs, they can be a skinsaver! Medicated toners, such as Peel Rx Alpha-Beta Toner, can dramatically improve acne conditions without imparting dehydration and irritation. In fact, toners prep the skin for moisture delivery and restore a healthy PH balance. Toners have really grown-up in the past few years. No longer the drying and irritating astringents of the past, toners successfully clear residual impurities, tighten pores and eradicate dead skin cells. Unfortunately, water systems fail to deliver pure, clean, unadulterated water. A toner ensures your skin isn’t left to the demise of skin-disturbing mineral deposits. On the same note, even splashing with water can disturb the skin’s delicate PH balance. Choose a PH-balanced toner that is appropriate for your skin type. Many contain emollients and antioxidants to further protect skin from the perils of UV radiation and harsh climates.

Visit naturalskinshop.com for more info about glycolic peels and glycolic acid peels, and don't forget to come back next week for Skin Care Orientation Part II (!)

SWEETHEART SKIN CARE: FOR SMOOTH (VERY SMOOTH) SKIN!

Kristina Holland-Natural Skin Shop’s skin savvy writer (& biggest fan!)

Don’t let a splotchy, blotchy, “good-for-nothing” complexion get in your way this Valentine’s Day. Let Natural Skin Shop be your sweetheart and prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from the start! Watch out Humphrey Bogart!

UH OH…CUPID’S ARROW LEFT A SCAR!
Did cupid’s arrow leave you with an unsightly scar on the most romantic night of the year? Okay…maybe it wasn’t Cupid’s arrow so much as a sudden bout with inflammatory acne. Nevertheless, the solution remains the same. A healthy dose of exfoliation in conjunction with a skin-brightening regimen and diligent sunscreen protection will surely erase the remnants of an acne breakout.

FIND YOUR PERFECT MATCH!
“Matchmaker, Matchmaker, Make Me a Match, Find Me a Find, Catch Me a Catch”
Skin peels, much like relationships, require a certain degree of “chemistry”. Finding your perfect skin peel counterpart can be as simple as 1 2 3! Natural Skin Shop has the perfect match for you…chemically speaking!

OILY/ACNE-PRONE: Go for the Salicylic Acid Peel! The beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) formula of the oil-soluble salicylic acid peel excavates beyond the oil and debris to reveal an even-toned and blemish-free complexion.
COMBINATION: Go for the Alpha-Beta Peel! Combination skin is fixated somewhere between dry and oily. This skin type often combats both extremes of the skin type spectrum. An excess of oil often highlights the notorious t-zone as well. The alpha-beta peel works to address both dry and oily skin concerns with a harmonious combination of alpha and beta hydroxy acids.
SENSITIVE/DRY: Go for a Lactic Acid Peel! Sensitive skin is often susceptible to the threat of irritation and dehydration. Blush because you want to, not because you have to this Valentine’s Day. The lactic acid peel, particularly a light strength concentration, is a suitable mate for both dry and sensitive skin types. Don’t risk stripping an already impaired lipid barrier. Dry skin is often a systematic condition indicative of harsh and irritating cosmetics. Before you label your skin as inherently dry, be sure to rule out your skin care regimen as a potential offender. If your skin is particularly sensitive, avoid chemical peels altogether. Instead, use a gentle exfoliating toner such as Glycolic Advanced Toner Mist.
NORMAL: Go for the Glycolic Peel! Neither too oily nor too dry but perfectly balanced! Your skin can just about handle anything, however, don’t push your luck. This skin type can easily turn to the dark side (dry and irritated) with too many aggressive fronts. Glycolic acid peels are ideal for peel newcomers as well as those without many skin type concerns.
As always, the concentration of a chemical peel affects its strength and permitted depth of penetration.

LET’S GET PHYSICAL!
If you’re too shy of chemical peels and yearn for something with a bit of nitty gritty mechanical exfoliation. Micro Derm RX Anti-Aging Microdermabrasion Cream is the perfect counterpart for your skin! At-home microdermabrasion treatments often fail to deliver medical-grade results due to the absence of high-grade ingredients. Micro Derm RX blends science and nature with a comprehensive formula combining all-natural active ingredients (Vitamin C and hyaluronic) with the technology of aluminum oxide crystals. Opt for a microdermabrasion treatment and let the physical chemistry develop into LOVE!

Roses are red, violets are blue, skin can be tricky, but we always have a solution for you!

Happy Valentine’s Day,
Natural Skin Shop (AKA Your Funny Valentine)
XOXO

Feel free to post your blog comments below!

“BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE”… With Natural Skin Shop dry skin is bound to go ‘way!

By Kristina Holland-Natural Skin Shop skin savvy writer (& biggest fan!)

DON’T TAKE A WINTER “BREAK”…

Unless you’re living in the Southern Hemisphere…you (and your skin) know the winter season is here. This arid albeit invigorating time of year can make or break your complexion…. figuratively and literally! The dry climate can parch skin of essential moisture thereby weakening or fracturing the intracellular strength of the ceramide barrier. Averting moisture loss all year-round is essential for the consistent health and beauty of your skin. A cohesive daily skin care regimen consisting of gentle cleansing, abundant hydration and moderate exfoliation ensures your skin is in tip-top shape and prepared to handle the onset of frigid temperatures. Individuals with pre-existing conditions, such eczema or psoriasis, are particularly vulnerable to harsh climates and require added protection from the elements.

SKIN FORECAST…‘CLEAR’ SKIES AHEAD

Sulfate-free and PH balanced cleansers, such as Lumirance Lotion Cleanser, are ideal for winter…fall, summer and spring! A gentle daily cleanser will thoroughly remove pore-clogging debris without the unnecessary side effect of dehydration. Paraben-free moisturizers with a healthy dose of hyaluronic acid, such as Hilton Becker MD 100% Chemical and Preservative Free Moisturizer, are particularly beneficial during the winter season. Hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in the skin, restores strength and vitality to an impaired barrier. Due to an unhealthy combination of inadequate exfoliation and dermal dehydration, skin exposed to frosty weather often appears chapped, dull and flaky. Don’t let the winter season deter you from exfoliating on a regular basis! Skin Peels are an effective form of chemical exfoliation, which eradicate dead skin cells without disturbing the skin’s normal intracellular matrix. In fact, Glycolic Acid Peels enhance suppleness and elasticity by accelerating the cellular turnover rate thereby improving the skin’s capacity for sustaining hydration.

“Tis the Winter Season to be Jolly, Bright and Beautiful!”

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! HAPPY NEW SKIN!!!

Ring in the New Year with Natural Skin Shop and say goodbye to problematic skin!

Over the last year, your skin has been exposed to a wide range of skin-debilitating agents. UV radiation, stress, pore-clogging cosmetics and environmental toxins can all wreck havoc on an otherwise healthy and “normal” complexion. Tally up the negative assaults and your skin will know (and show) the difference…

ALL THAT SPARKLES!

Don’t let your skin fall victim to the unfavorable effects of ‘pore’ dermal regeneration. Regular exfoliation maintains a healthy complexion by accelerating the skin’s natural turnover rate. Let your complexion sparkle and shine this year with the aid of Natural Skin Shop’s Chemical Peels. Skin-repairing Skin Peels retaliate against clogged pores (comedones), photodamage and the adverse signs of aging by encouraging healthy, new cellular proliferation.

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS THAT YOU CAN KEEP!

*Thou Shall Wash Thy Face Before Bed

Even non-comedogenic cosmetics (e.g.: mineral makeup) can seep into your pores as you sleep soundly (and blissfully unaware) all through the night! Before you catch some much-needed Z’s, be sure to thoroughly remove residual oil, makeup and debris with a PH balanced cleanser such as Peel Rx Green Tea Cleanser…

*Thou Shall Not Expose Thyself to UV Radiation

Harmful UVA and UVB rays can break down collagen and elastin fibers thereby prompting an unhealthy complexion plagued by wrinkles, acne and hyperpigmentation. Be sure to protect the health and vitality of your skin by habitually utilizing broad-spectrum sunscreen…come rain or shine!

*Thou Shall “Take It Easy”

Stress is one of the chief culprits responsible for pre-mature aging, acne, rosacea, etc, etc, etc. The list could go on and on due to the hazardous effects of stress on the body. Take a breather from time to time for you and your skin’s sake… (Hint: Simply catching up with a loyal friend can relieve stress and anxiety…)

3…2…1… GLOW!!!

You’ve set your goals and you’re ready to get started on the New Year! Another year is here for you to get it right! Maybe you have decided to exercise more frequently, drink more water or consume healthier foods (NSS recommends all of the above). Either way, the New Year brings a fresh start to your lifestyle, your dreams… and of course your skin! Get started and don’t hold back…you have some imperative glowing to do!

THE “NATURAL” SKIN SHOP CHEAT SHEET

“N”othing can stop you from smiling! Remember that a positive attitude is your best (and most valuable) asset. Set your goals and follow your heart. Your inner glow will shine through…even on a cloudy day!

“A” apple a day! Whichever fruit you choose, increasing your daily intake will impart instant radiance! Many fruits, such as pomegranate and acai, are packed full of skin-nourishing antioxidants. Be good to yourself on the inside and out…

“T”rust your instincts. A dermatologist or aesthetician can give you ALL the latest skin know-how and advice, but only YOU truly know the skin you’re in… What works for one individual, may not work for you. Determine your skin type, know your sensitivities and invest in quality skin care…the rest is up to your skin!

“U”ndo the damage…Investing in a commitment to beautiful skin begins with renewal. Step 1: Peel the years away! In the skin-peeling world, Glycolic Acid Peels are an excellent first-step for those who are new to the rejuvenating process of Chemical Peels.

“R”eprimand the hazards of life. Smoking, stress, excessive drinking and inadequate sleep are all devastating to your complexion and overall wellbeing. Kick the foul habits and feel free to radiate your newfound health and happiness…

“A”ttention to detail. You may not notice how many times you rest your hand or cell phone upon your face, but seemingly trivial habits can become serious problems. Remember to keep bacteria-ridden object (such as your hands, dirty pillow cases or cellular phones) off your delicate skin. Frequently wash bath towels and pillowcases in a non-irritating and fragrance-free detergent.

“L”ove, love, love your skin! You have but only one epidermis! Protect it and nourish it, but most of all…love it! TLC is a necessary constituent for beautiful skin!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Natural Skin Shop

XOXO

Kristina Holland-Natural Skin Shop’s skin savvy writer (& biggest fan!)

Feel free to post your blog comments below!

A NATURAL SKIN CARE PRODUCTS CAROL…

Don’t let the ghost of Christmas past haunt your complexion!

We’re all guilty of skin care neglect from time to time. Even seemingly minor mishaps can become a complexion crime! The damaging effects of incidental sun exposure may not be apparent right away, but sooner or later, they will get their way! Invest in the best…let Natural Skin Shop take care of the rest!

PHOTODAMAGE AT A GLANCE…
*Brown Spots (Hyperpigmentation)
*Fine Lines & Wrinkles
*Melasma
*Thinned Epidermis (A weakened barrier)
*Thickened Dermis (A recipe for acne!)
*Loss of Collagen/Elastin
*Broken Capillaries or “Telangiectasia”
*Overactive Sebaceous Glands (compensating for the loss of hydration in the lipid barrier)

‘FACE’ THE FUTURE
Just like Mr. Scrooge, most of us weren’t acutely aware of the imminent consequences of our present-minded decisions… A scolding hot day at the beach, a bottle of bronzing baby oil and absolutely no sunscreen! Does that flashback to 1985 ring a bell? Unfortunately, the unfavorable (yet highly insightful) reports on sun damage did not surface until after the fact. Although the damage has been done…atonement is but a skin peel away!

GOOD TIDINGS WE BRING TO YOU AND YOUR SKIN!
Fear not sunbathers… Glycolic Acid Peels are known to counteract the wicked effects of sun damage without impairing your lifestyle (or budget). Glycolic Acid (an alpha hydroxy acid) is a powerful exfoliating agent used to effectively stimulate collagen and elastin production. As a result, Glycolic Acid Peels accelerate the skin’s natural turnover rate and hinder the development of unhealthy skin cells.

Bye Bye 1985!

PS! Diligently apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen all year round to maintain a healthy, even-toned complexion! Opt for a sunscreen infused with antioxidants, such as Peel Rx Green Tea Anti-Aging SPF 30, which defends your skin against the harmful effects of UV radiation.

Natural Skin Shop
XOXO
Kristina Holland-Natural Skin Shop’s skin savvy writer (& biggest fan!)

Feel free to post your blog comments below!