Cleansing facial procedures are very diverse. However, many modern girls today prefer almond peeling, considering it the best and most effective remedy for their skin. This term has been known in aesthetic cosmetology for more than a decade, but not every woman has an idea of what it is and what are the features of this cleansing.
What it is?
Almond peeling is a cosmetic procedure for rejuvenating the skin of the face. This is a method using a chemical agent for surface treatment of the epidermis. The peeling is based on the use of phenyl glycolic (almond) acid. In addition, it contains 2-hydroxy and 2-phenylacetic acids.
Mandelic acid refers to fruit alpha hydroxy acids; it is produced from bitter almond extract. The procedure itself is considered one of the most effective and safe for skin rejuvenation. It is used to rid the dermis of various imperfections. This is an excellent tool to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.
Features and Benefits
Thanks to mandelic acid, which acts as a strong keratolytic, a soft exfoliation of keratinized epidermal cells occurs. In addition, inflammatory processes are reduced in them. A distinctive feature of mandelic acid is the large size of the molecules: they are 8 times larger than the glycolic acid molecules. That is why they can not penetrate deep into the skin, and also act aggressively.
The effect of acid is directed to the upper (horny) layer of the skin.
In this case, the vitreous layer remains intact. This effect allows you to perform the procedure for especially sensitive and thinned skin, without fear of negative consequences. It is practically devoid of side effects, so it has a lot of recommendations from specialists working in beauty salons.
During the procedure, mandelic acid penetrates keratinized cells slowly, therefore, has a more gentle effect on them, disrupting their structure. During the procedure, a specialist can adjust the depth of penetration of the product. In its composition there are substances that act like antibiotics. Such peeling prevents the effects of free radicals, and also comedonolytic effect is noted.
This procedure is good for those who usually have skin irritations after traditional peeling. It can be carried out at any time, including in sunny weather, without fear of the appearance of age spots. It does not require a large number of repetitions: for a course, no more than 2 or 3 sessions are sufficient for the effect to be pronounced. In this case, you can not worry that it will harm the skin, because it is suitable for any phototype.
When carrying out this technique, infection of the skin is excluded.
In addition to enhancing blood circulation, this peeling will help improve the condition of the dermis, eliminate its small irregularities and folds. It can be used as a preparatory stage before laser resurfacing. In addition, it can be used before peeling based on other acids (for example, retinoic, glycolic, salicylic).
This type of cosmetic manipulation is practical and good because it does not have such consequences as puffiness. Treated problem areas do not swell, they look natural. In this case, there were no cases of hyperemia, which is usually characteristic when performing peeling based on fruit acids. This is another advantage of this type of peeling to eliminate skin imperfections.
This technique is quite effective, but not always affordable. Not every representative of the fair sex can afford to do it. However, no matter how harmless it may seem, you cannot do it without the recommendation of a doctor, since the method, in addition to the indications, also has contraindications. In addition, you should not count on an effective result when deep penetration is necessary to eliminate problems.
disadvantages
Unfortunately, almond peeling is not without flaws. According to the assessment of cosmetologists, the effectiveness after the procedure can not be called persistent and durable. It is good for preparing the skin for a deeper peeling. In addition, during the session, the patient may experience slight discomfort in the form of slight tingling of the skin, which is inherent in the acids of the ANA group. Another minus is the characteristic smell of acetone, which will hold the entire session.
In addition, it must be borne in mind that peeling alone cannot eliminate problems if the essence of their appearance is hidden in the way of life.
For example, it is impossible to get rid of acne without changing the diet, because often this is how the skin reacts to what we eat. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the fact that their appearance signals the presence of colds. At a cost this cleaning is more expensive than a similar glycol procedure.
In some cases, it may be accompanied by increased peeling. In addition, it does not always allow to eliminate the root of the existing problem, therefore, it cannot have the duration of the effect obtained. An equally significant factor is the calculation of the percentage of acid used. Alas, not every woman is able to independently assess the condition of the skin in order to correctly calculate the concentration of acid.
In this case, the rule “the more the better” can work to the detriment of one’s own health. In addition, not every patient herself can notice the wrong course of cleaning. This in some cases requires a reduction in its duration. Someone from the side should monitor the condition of the skin, since it will be difficult for the patient to do this on her own, based only on her own opinion, while the cosmetologist sees what needs to be done and when.
Appointment
Almond peeling is indicated for various skin problems. For example, it is relevant for acne. Acid from almonds is an effective tool in the fight against acne.
Such a tool has a wide range of effects, which include gentle:
- exfoliation;
- hydration;
- rejuvenation;
- whitening;
- preventing clogging of pores;
- antiseptic effect.
This is not only cosmetic, but also an antifungal agent, which is characterized by a bactericidal and keratolic effect.
It is resistant to UV radiation and is suitable for those who suffer from rosacea (dilated vasculature).
This peeling can be applied:
- owners of skin with increased fat production;
- with age-related aging of the epidermis and hyperpigmentation;
- to eliminate inflammatory processes in the layers of the epidermis;
- as a means of destroying keratin solid protein;
- as stimulation with insufficient microcirculation in the skin;
- in case of profuse acne, including comedonal form of acne;
- with especially sensitive skin, which reacts sharply to changes in environmental conditions (hyperkeratosis);
- to eliminate residual traces of acne and superficial scars;
- as an effective tool for smoothing facial wrinkles in the eyes and mouth;
- for renewal of skin cells, their metabolism and respiration of the epidermis;
- as a means to remove age spots, freckles, as well as a drug to give the face freshness.
Almond peeling is also noteworthy in that it is possible to conduct such a session not only for facial skin. The effectiveness of the procedure has been proven when using it for hands, elbows, feet, and knee joints. Often it is used with a pedicure. For all its effectiveness, the procedure is characterized by softness and versatility, it smoothes the skin, making it supple.
It is applicable for patients of different age categories, in addition to the delicate effects, is characterized by all-weather season.
However, the only limitation in this regard is the impossibility of holding it on tanned skin. As a rule, it is characterized by rapid recovery, which makes it popular with busy people. This allows you not to reduce your social activity.
Contraindications
Despite the indications, the softness of the effect and the harmlessness, there are cases when it is impossible to conduct almond peeling.
For example, it is contraindicated in:
- damage to skin cells of various nature (for example, cracks, wounds, abrasions);
- skin irritation (including inflammatory processes, rashes);
- diabetes mellitus;
- colds accompanied by fever;
- individual intolerance or allergic reaction to any of the components of almond peeling;
- prolonged exposure to the sun;
- diseases of the skin in the acute stage;
- the presence of viral infections, including herpes in a progressive stage;
- during pregnancy, as well as during breastfeeding.
It is worth considering that you can not do such procedures too often.
You can not spend them more than three times a month. In addition, it is important to remember about preparing for the delicate cleansing of skin cells.
Varieties
To date, chemical almond peeling varies in composition. Drugs can be made on a gel basis or water-alcohol. The main thing is the content of acid in them.Typically, the result depends on the type of skin, the amount of product applied, and also the exposure time. In addition, often a professional all-season preparation with mandelic acid, which is used in a beauty salon, may also contain milk or apple.
Sometimes the tool is improved by adding salicylic acid. Each additive brings its own effect, which affects the general condition of the skin. For example, lactic acid has a delicate effect on the cells, and also contributes to their hydration. But if there will be a lot of it in the peeling, it will not be possible to eliminate the problems.
Inclusion in equal proportions of malic acid in the mass will enhance the effectiveness of peeling in the fight against acne and acne.
In this case, it will be possible to achieve normalization of the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Due to the presence of large quantities of amino acids, the addition of malic acid will accelerate the process of tissue regeneration. However, a large amount of this supplement can cause an allergic reaction.
Adding salicylic acid to an almond peeling product will reduce its delicate effects and can injure cells. This acid acts more aggressively, and even taking into account the fact that it smoothes expression lines and improves complexion, it can only be used when the skin is very dense. Otherwise, it can cause irritation of the skin.
Ferulic peeling has an antioxidant effect. A mixture of mandelic and ferulic acid will allow not only to remove dead cells and accelerate their renewal. This composition contributes to their dissolution in the upper layer of the skin. It is an excellent prevention of aging, protects the skin DNA from mutations of the dermis, improves its immunity, eliminates sagging and dark circles around the eyes.
Preparation
In order for the effect of almond peeling to be pronounced, you need to prepare for it. To do this, in about 2 weeks, special cosmetic creams containing phenyl glycolic acid are applied to the skin in the evenings. If there are no such drugs at home, analogues with a whitening principle of influence on the skin will do. Gradual accustoming of the dermis is necessary in order to exclude rare cases of an allergic reaction during the peeling itself.
So the epidermis will be best prepared for the main procedure and will achieve maximum efficiency.
You can use these creams in between sessions, but this can not be done on the day of the session. The use of such cosmetics will soften keratinized layers, so it will be easier to remove them from the epidermis. Such preparation will reduce the reaction of the skin, and will also help accelerate the rehabilitation period.
In order not to harm the skin by constant application of the cream, funds based on 15% mandelic acid can be used. If you want to increase effectiveness, it is worth adding a cleansing gel with fruit acid to skin care. If there is no time to prepare the skin, it is recommended to clean with a reduced exposure period. However, in any case, before the procedure itself, it is necessary to conduct an allergy test. It will reveal its presence or absence, which is especially important when peeling of this type is carried out for the first time.
Recommendations for use
Carrying out almond peeling at home is simple. The necessary drugs can be bought at specialized points of sale, choosing between products of different brands. However, if you do not do it right, then even a quality and proven composition can harm the health of the skin. In order to do this in accordance with all the rules, as well as to avoid possible complications, it is worth starting from the proposed salon protocol of the procedure.
Logging involves three steps: pre-peeling preparation, the process of purification itself and neutralization measures. Initially, cleanliness of the skin at the treatment sites is achieved. To do this, remove makeup, remove any means that a woman used before cleaning. You can use tonic or milk for this purpose with a content of not more than 10% mandelic acid.
To prepare the skin for the application of mandelic acid, you must first process it with a composition that contains glycolic and lactic acids.
This step will show the reaction of the dermis to the peeling substance used. After proceeding to the cleaning itself, using a concentrated solution of mandelic acid (an average of 30 to 40%). Sometimes lactic or citric acid, as well as drying components (if the skin is excessively oily) are added to the main composition.
The cleaning time is selected individually, however, the maximum possible duration should not exceed 25 minutes. After the required time, the mass is removed from the surface of the skin using a special composition, washing off the residues with water. After that, a soothing mask is applied to the treated skin areas. A combination of herbal extracts helps relieve skin stress after a chemical effect on it. The mask is applied for several minutes, after which the dermis is removed and moistened with cream.
How to care for skin after?
In the post-peeling period, skin care is an important factor in prolonging the effectiveness of cleansing. It is not only a means to get rid of the possible discomfort associated with the restoration of skin cells.
In addition, it is able to prevent the development of various complications that are possible if the procedure is carried out incorrectly, these include:
- feeling of dryness;
- burning of the skin;
- redness of the dermis;
- peeling.
To eliminate such symptoms, cosmetologists advise using masks with a calming effect. In addition, the use of nourishing and moisturizing creams is appropriate. If the rehabilitation period proceeds with complications, a beautician may recommend the use of hormonal ointment. However, in any case, a woman can not prescribe this or that cream to herself, so as not to harm the health of the skin.
Typically, the skin has to be moisturized over the next week from the moment of cleansing with almond peeling.
In order not to provoke an inflammatory process, before going out to the street it will need to be protected with sunscreen. For some time after peeling, the skin will be pinkish and especially sensitive. Therefore, any procedures that may cause irritation are excluded.
For example, until it is fully restored, it is impossible to make scrubs, to carry out cleansing with an exfoliating or other rigid principle of action. To clean the surface layer it is allowed to use cosmetic milk, the components of which are substances with antibacterial and soothing properties. These include citric acid, orange oil, green tea extract. The first use of the cream with the smallest abrasive particles is possible only a week after the almond peeling.
When choosing a cream for treating the skin during its recovery, you should pay attention to the formulations with the presence of vitamins. It is good if such a cream contains vitamin E, PP or F, as they will help calm the dermis. In order to prevent hyperpigmentation, it is worth using means that enhance lymphatic drainage, as well as blocking melanin. Such preparations include products containing cucumber extract or grapefruit.
In general, this procedure does not have any special side effects.
Therefore, mild redness can usually be hidden with regular daytime makeup. However, it is not recommended to use tons of cosmetics for this, as they clog pores and extend the rehabilitation period.In order to protect the dermis from sunlight, you can use cosmetics labeled with an SPF of at least 30. In addition, we must not forget that the main rule that promotes the rapid restoration of the skin is hygiene.
Beautician Tips
Beauticians believe that carrying out almond peeling at home is undesirable, since it is a specialist with the necessary qualifications who must control the process. It is he who can say whether this cleaning is necessary, or if there is no evidence to conduct it.
In addition, it is not out of place to take into account several tips from qualified cosmetologists:
- To increase the photosensitivity of the skin, it is worth preparing it for almond cleansing with a cream with retinol.
- The course scheme in each case may be different, therefore, focusing on the interval of 7-10 days is undesirable. This should be decided by the cosmetologist individually, evaluating the skin's ability to restore.
- To stimulate the process of cell regeneration, it is worth including antioxidant preparations in the skin care, which will contain a lot of vitamins C and E.
- So that the renewed skin looks natural, we must not forget about the almond peeling of the neckline and neck. It is worth paying attention to the hands.
- It is impossible to carry out dry cleaning often, because the skin will be irritated and weak, unprepared for a new peeling.
- In the post-peeling period, you can not visit the solarium, use an alcohol-containing solution. Washing with soft water is appropriate.
- Compliance with the recommendations of cosmetologists will avoid such negative side effects as the appearance of acne, allergic rashes, and even skin burns.
- When carrying out the procedure in the summer, it is especially important to ensure that during the rehabilitation period the epidermis is not exposed to prolonged exposure to sunlight.
- To get as few UV rays as possible on the skin in the first days after dry cleaning, you should use a hat. It will be useful to wear a hat, cap, panama (depends on the time of year).
- The appearance of rashes on the skin after the procedure can speak not only about the wrong choice of post-peeling care products, but also hormonal disorders, as well as diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
- In case of infection, antibacterial drugs should be used. If the case is serious, which is rare, oral therapy may be needed.
- Mechanical tearing of exfoliating skin is strictly unacceptable. This can injure the skin, provoke the appearance of new wounds, exacerbate the course of rehabilitation.
To adhere to the rules, you can purchase the right product directly from a cosmetologist, or simply get his consultation. So you can minimize side effects and understand in which cases the skin reacts sharply, and when everything is going fine. By the way, in addition to the finished drug during the procedure at home, you can make a lot yourself. For it, you will need 50 g of oatmeal and almonds, as well as 1 teaspoon of dried milk and olive oil.
Flakes and nuts are crushed in a coffee grinder, then mixed with the rest of the ingredients, applied according to the general technology to the face for about 15-20 minutes, and then washed off.
In terms of effectiveness, the home recipe will be inferior to the finished product, however, it will also be effective. As a rule, after applying this product, the skin acquires smoothness and elasticity. She looks young and fit.
Reviews
Almond peeling is one of the three best cosmetic measures for superficial skin cleansing. This is evidenced by the numerous reviews of women who have tested this procedure. Compared to milk and glycol, its effect is more delicate, so women believe that it is better than analogues of this type. It does not act so deeply and intensely, but in general it can improve the condition of the skin.
Therefore, the result before and after is noticeable, regardless of age category. After the renewal, the face becomes fresh, looks rested. Its relief is smoothed, the expression of facial wrinkles decreases. Some comments indicate that cell sebum is reduced, which improves skin condition. A slight lifting effect after dry cleaning with mandelic acid was also noticed.
Features of care with almond peeling, see the video below.