PH is a method of measuring the acidity or alkalinity of substances. The lower the pH, the stronger the chemical peel. When the skin’s proteins react with an acid of low pH, the acidic environment destroys the existing skin cells and tissues, and the bodies repair system works to replace the destroyed tissue.
The skin, our largest organ, maintains a healthy pH in the range of 4 – 4.9. The purpose of this relatively acidic pH is to help the resistance of pathogen invasion, particularly bacteria, in the environment. There are many factors that influence the pH of the skin; these include age, hygiene, nutrition, various disease states, seasonality, and topical product applications.
As we age, our skin pH tends to rise above five (particularly in the elderly). With this increase of pH comes lower resistance to bacteria as well as in increased risk of certain pathological states.
Chemical peels use chemical solutions to loosen skin cells, stimulate blood flow and collagen to the surface of the skin and restore balance – ultimately improving the skin’s appearance. They are often performed on the face, neck, chest, hands, arms and legs.
Various strengths of chemical peels can play a part in your anti-aging skincare regime to:
– Reduce or eliminate fine lines and wrinkles
– Correct skin pigmentation
– Soften acne scars
– Lighten sun spots
– Give you an overall clearer complexion
Clearly, knowledge of both the concentration and the pH of a product’s active ingredients is critical in assessing its effectiveness. For example, over-the-counter skincare products commonly contain a mild glycolic acid – which suits all skin types, and can temporarily reduce oil build-up in particularly oily complexions – however, you will need higher concentrations of this acid if you are hoping to soften fine lines and winkles, and balance out your skin tone and texture. Lower pH products are used in the treatment of hyper pigmentation to obtain visible results by helping to accelerate the exfoliation of pigmentation, and resolve the current skin concern.
Our skin care therapists can recommend what peels will be most effective on your skin, including lactic peels with anti-inflammatory benefits, advanced oxygenising treatments to reduce redness and soothe inflamed skin, or enzyme facials containing fruit and flower extracts that provide antioxidant protection and revitalise tired, dull complexions.
So whether you’re suffering from a skin condition such as Rosacea, hyper pigmentation, or congestion – and want to give your skin an anti aging boost – we offer free consultations so that we can provide the best facial peel for you. Contact us today to book an appointment on 01708 225555.
