Salicylic Acid Peel

Salicylic acid is an organic, crystalline, beta hydroxy acid, that is commonly used for the treatment of skin conditions, primarily acne. It originates from the bark of the willow tree, though it is now synthetically prepared and has varied uses, including that of food preservation. As a skin treatment formulation, it is used in low concentrations for the manufacture of skin exfoliation and acne treatment products; in higher concentrations, it is used in a cosmetic procedure called a salicylic acid peel. Salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory properties, it is, in fact, a form of this organic acid that is the basis of the ever popular drug - aspirin. The very same anti-inflammatory properties make it effective as a product for the treatment of acne, and as a chemical peeling agent, it has been used with highly beneficial results.

Before and After

Although it is possible to perform a salicylic acid peel at home, a consultation with a dermatologist is imperative - and should this be your first time, it's best to get it done at the hands of a certified professional. Having said that, there are a number of DIY kits which come with detailed explanations, so if you're confident about the procedure, follow instructions to the letter and you ought to be okay. If you choose to get the peel done at a clinic, your dermatologist should take down details about your medical history, including sensitivity to any particular agents or products, or known allergy causing agents. In addition, he or she will then decide whether or not this peel is the correct treatment for the existing skin condition, and what results you can expect, should this be the case. A salicylic acid chemical peel is not the only option - there are glycolic peels, mild, medium and deep peels, microdermabrasion treatments, laser treatments, and a lot of other therapies available, which may be applicable as a solution. However, in the event that your choice is salicylic acid, the following are some points to keep in mind.

Salicylic acid is generally used for mild peels in concentrations of 4 -20%. The beta hydroxy acids essentially 'peel' off a layer of dead skin cells, revealing a new layer of skin beneath. Although preparations are available for home use, salicylic acid peel is toxic when inhaled, so ensure you follow safety instructions to the letter. The procedure for a chemical peel is fairly simple. The preparation is applied onto cleaned skin, and left on for between 10 and 20 minutes. The dermatologist will check your progress at regular intervals, to ensure optimum results.

Recovery

Post a salicylic acid acne peel, your skin may be inflamed, red and itchy. This is fairly normal, and should die down, along with any flakiness, or dryness within a few days. It's vital to avoid sun exposure after a chemical peel, since beta hydroxy acids increase your skin's photo sensitivity - so if you must go out, use a broad spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, at least 20 minutes prior to going out; ideally, wear a hat or carry an umbrella.

Before you choose to go through with a salicylic acid peel, do your research well, and make sure you get a dermatologist's take on the correct kind of treatment for your skin. While it may not show immediate results, most users give this procedure a thumbs up for results in 6 - 8 sessions. Ensure you follow a good skin care routine, combine it with a good diet and exercise, and a clear and glowing complexion will soon be yours! Good luck!