Vitamin C and Glycolic Peels: What are They, and are They Right for You?

As skin cells grow and divide at a natural pace, new cells are formed and come to the surface, replacing the older dead cells on the outermost layer of our skin. These older, damaged cells typically fall away with time and regular cleansing. But several things can interfere with this process, including sun exposure and environmental pollutants. When dead skin cells are produced too quickly or fail to slough off at a natural pace, the skin surface can start to look aged and dull.

Facial Treatments and AHAs

Enter the magic of AHAs, or alpha hydroxyl acids. This family of molecules includes, among others, lactic acid (derived from milk products), citric acid (from fruits) and glycolic acid (often derived from sugar cane). All of these natural products provide a very gentle acidity that helps loosen and slough away the outer layer of aged and damaged cells on the surface of our skin. This reveals the new cells beneath and exposes them to oxygen, which encourages healthy growth.

Shedding away the dull outer layer of skin with a very gentle peel can even skin tone, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and help the skin regulate its production of oil.

Who Benefits from a Glycolic or Vitamin C Peel?

Everyone! But especially those with large pores, age spots, acne, or oily, uneven, or sun damaged skin. A single treatment can restore a healthy bloom, but regular treatments with a high concentration of AHAs can actually help encourage the regeneration of collagen and elastin and reverse some of the natural effects of aging.

Vitamin C and glycolic peels are most often recommended for adult men and women, but here at my salon we also offer a one-hour mini facial treatment for teenagers. A mini-facial can bring out the natural radiance of young skin and help control acne problems.

Image By: Robynlou8