Facial cleansing with acids: hyaluronic, salicylic, lactic acids

Cosmetologists believe that today almost no one has normal skin. The tendency to dryness or increased oiliness prevails. Procedures, including facial cleansing with acids, can normalize the condition of the skin. It is relevant for both sexes, for all ages and skin types. However, it is of most interest to women.

Indications for the procedure

Special glands constantly secrete sebum – to protect the skin from drying out and adverse external factors, to make the skin soft and elastic. On the surface, this secretion mixes with dead epidermal scales. Normally, fat is secreted in an optimal volume, and cell renewal occurs independently. If there are any violations, the respiratory pores become clogged with this mixture.

• Under the influence of stress, seasonal fluctuations, circadian and hormonal imbalances, and overwork, disruptions occur: more sebum is produced, and renewal slows down. [ 1 ]

Most experts agree that hyperproliferation and impaired keratinization of the follicular epithelium, combined with sebaceous gland hyperactivity and colonization by Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), result in the formation of clogged pores that may be accompanied by varying degrees of inflammation.[ 2 ] It is also believed that acne-prone skin is in a state of constant subclinical inflammation that may develop to varying degrees of severity when one or more of the previously mentioned pathomechanisms overlap.[ 3 ] Altered barrier function and skin integrity have also been reported in acne patients.[ 4 ]

An acidic pH of the stratum corneum is essential for the optimal functioning of the skin's natural barrier system. Shifts in skin pH and, in turn, barrier dysfunction predispose the skin to inflammatory and infectious dermatoses, including acne vulgaris. [ 5 ]

The glands become clogged, enlarged, and plugs form in them, topped with black dots - oxidized lipid secretion. The skin is unable to cleanse itself of them. No cosmetics will help to extract the contents from the depths of the skin. This becomes the main indication for a salon facial cleansing procedure - with acids or another method.

Evidence in the literature shows the benefits of acidifying the skin surface in acne. Studies have shown that lowering the pH reduces the TH2 inflammatory response and accelerates barrier function restoration, thereby preventing epidermal hyperproliferation.[ 6 ],[ 7 ]

With regular use of acids for facial cleansing in pre-acne conditions, the symptoms and signs of skin irritation and the occurrence of inflammation and acne were lower than those of alkaline soaps. [ 8 ] The phenomenon of acidification of the skin surface may help reduce the number of inflammatory papulopustules in acne-affected skin. [ 9 ] Studies have shown that regular use of acidic agents reduces the pH of the skin surface and the number of propionibacteria compared to neutral preparations. [ 10 ], [ 11 ]

This is how we help our skin. And after 30 years, cleaning, at home or in a salon, helps to act proactively - to delay the formation of wrinkles, dullness, and a decrease in skin turgor as long as possible.

The use of cosmetic acids is intended to smooth out the upper layer of the skin, remove dirt, dead cells, and excess fat. Salons use fruit (apple, citric, lemon), salicylic, oleic, glycolic, lactic, and retinoic acids.

In the process of preparation for cleaning, it is recommended to use care products with fruit acids. They will also be needed during the rehabilitation period after acid peeling.

Preparation

If a cosmetologist has advised facial cleansing with acids, then it should begin with careful preparation - regardless of whether in a salon or at home. The difference is that in a beauty salon this will be done by a professional, and when doing it yourself, you should take care of the preparation yourself.

An assessment of each individual's skin condition is mandatory before performing a chemical peel. The treating dermatologist should evaluate the patient for possible indications, look for any contraindications, discuss the procedure in detail, and assess the patient's expectations and expectations of results. Potential risks of the procedure as well as limitations should be discussed. The patient's skin type should be assessed using the Fitzpatrick classification. The level of photodamage should also be assessed using the Glogau classification. A detailed history and skin examination should be performed on all patients prior to a chemical peel. The areas to be peeled should be photographed and should include a full-face and frontal view. Informed consent should be signed prior to the peel procedure.

Dermatologists use several pre-peel regimens. Various combinations including topical tretinoin, alpha-hydroxy acids, hydroquinone, kojic acid, and low-potency steroids are used to cleanse the skin prior to peeling. Patients should be advised to avoid smoking, minimize sun exposure, and use broad-spectrum sunscreens. Pre-peel regimens vary for acne vulgaris, photodamage, and hyperpigmentation, including melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.[ 12 ]

Patients with acne vulgaris may be prescribed topical and systemic treatments 2 to 4 weeks before the peel. Topical antibiotics may be used daily and stopped 1 to 2 days before the peel. Broad-spectrum sunscreens (UVA and UVB) should be applied frequently.

The skin is prepared in advance - about a day before the main procedure. At night, a scrub is used to effectively cleanse the surface. It is also better to prepare the cleaning mixture before the start, so as not to waste expensive procedural time, calculated by the minute.

• With proper preparation, self-chemical cleaning is not dangerous. Immediately before the procedure, the face should be wiped with a soft product - milk or serum. Eyelids, eyebrows, lips should be protected from burns with cosmetic petroleum jelly.

The working mixture is applied immediately after wiping, listening to your own sensations. They should be within the limits of tolerance: slight tingling, itching. After seven to eight minutes, remove the mass with warm water.

There are various recommendations regarding the frequency of procedures. And this is understandable, because each person's skin has individual characteristics, on which these recommendations depend. Age, condition, type, gender, climate, environmental influences - these are the main factors that determine the number and frequency of sessions. Skin needs cleaning from once every 10 to once every 30 days.

Technique acid facials

The treating physician should be a qualified dermatologist who has received adequate training in chemical peels during postgraduate training in dermatology.

Those who want to do their own facial cleansing with acids should know about contraindications. Thus, no procedures can be done when the face is covered in inflammation, the skin is infected or injured. The rest of the time, the key to success is a properly selected composition and consistent performance of all operations.

The technique is simple. The main thing is to consider the skin type. For example, for dry and normal skin, a recipe with alpha hydroxy acids (AHA acids) is suitable:

• Take 2 liters of lemon juice and cane sugar, pour a little yogurt into the solution. This mask contains a lot of citric, glycolic and lactic acids.

In the mid-1990s, the anti-aging effects of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) were recognized by the cosmeceutical industry, leading to the proliferation of AHA-containing anti-aging products.[ 13 ] AHAs are a group of hydrophilic organic acids that contain a carboxylic acid group with an adjacent hydroxyl group at the alpha position.[ 14 ] The most commonly used AHAs are glycolic acid and lactic acid, although malic acid, citric acid, pyruvic acid, tartaric acid, and others have similar functions.[ 15 ]

The exact mechanism of action of AHAs is still unknown, however, the most widely accepted theory is that AHAs remove calcium ions from epidermal cell adhesions through chelation. This results in weakened intercellular adhesion, which has an exfoliating effect, causing dead and dry cells to slough off. [ 16 ] Reduced calcium levels also promote further cell growth while slowing cell differentiation, thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles and making skin appear younger. AHAs may also promote increased collagen and hyaluronic acid gene expression in the dermis and epidermis, which in turn improves skin turgor and hydration.

It is kept on the face for about eight minutes and washed off. Then immediately moisturized with cream, which is subsequently used regularly, and for a whole month it is protected from ultraviolet radiation.

Oily skin is always problematic. It also requires the use of BHA acids.

β-hydroxy acids (βHAs) are carboxylic acids that have one hydroxyl group attached to the β-position of the carboxyl group. Raspberry and citric acid are representatives in this category. Citric acid is widely used in topical formulations as an antioxidant, and its anti-aging properties are well known.[ 17 ]

For cleaning, dissolve aspirin in lemon juice, remove from face after 10 minutes with sponges soaked in soda water. The mask dries acne, reduces oil production, removes accumulated dirt. This is a very effective procedure for treating acne and acne-prone skin. [ 18 ]

If everything is done correctly, and individual comedones still do not evacuate, leave them alone for a while - until next time. This means that they are not fully matured. When pressing such points, the contents get inside the skin layer, subsequently becoming inflamed and leaving unsightly scars.

Facial cleansing with acids at home

Acids are found in various products: sweet and sour milk, tomatoes, lemon, blueberries, grapes, and other vegetables and fruits. Fruit juices, such as lemon, are most often used to cleanse the face with acids. The liquid should simply be applied to the face and washed off after 10 minutes.

The procedure is quite safe and comes down to removing dead elements, opening pores and evacuating their contents. It is quite possible to perform facial cleansing with acids at home, and it will cost significantly less than at a cosmetologist. An important detail: at home, less concentrated solutions are used, compared to a salon. This is done in order to avoid burns or other troubles in case of a possible error.

• If you have oily skin, you can resort to intensive treatment without any doubt. If your skin is tender and thin or affected by inflammation, you need to act delicately or still turn to professionals.

Any cleansing begins with steaming. At home it is done traditionally: the covered head is held over hot water, after 10 minutes the face is blotted with a towel. It is useful to take an infusion of herbs instead of water. You can take a shower with a washing gel.

An effective substance for acid peeling is salicylic acid, one of the beta-hydroxy acids. It penetrates deep into the pores, acts as an anti-inflammatory, fat-dissolving, exfoliating element. In order to prevent an undesirable reaction, a test is done on a delicate area of the skin in advance. If there is no reaction after a day, you can start cleaning your face.

• Before starting the procedure, it is necessary to protect the mucous membranes and sensitive areas with Vaseline (lubricate the eyebrows, eyelids, nostrils, lips).

The pliable, softened skin is wiped with salicylic alcohol and treated for blackheads, whiteheads, and sebaceous plugs. If necessary, a needle can be used. Stubborn comedones are left alone until the next session.

After an aggressive procedure, it is important to properly care for your skin: wash with gentle products, moisturize two or three times a day, and avoid sun exposure. If signs of pigmentation or infection appear, this indicates the need for qualified assistance.

Acetylsalicylic acid facial cleansing

Salicylic acid has been used to treat a variety of skin conditions for over 2,000 years. Salicylic acid's ability to exfoliate the stratum corneum makes it a good exfoliant. In particular, salicylic acid's comedolytic property makes it a useful exfoliant for acne patients. It is considered both a keratolytic agent and a desmolytic agent due to its ability to disrupt cell junctions rather than disrupt or lyse intercellular keratin filaments.[ 19 ]

Chemically, acetylsalicylic acid is 2-hydroxybenzoic acid or orthohydrobenzoic acid. Sources of salicylates include willow bark, sweet birch, and wintergreen leaves. However, it can also be synthesized artificially and is commonly known as aspirin.[ 20 ]

Salicylic acid is a fat-soluble agent, unlike α-hydroxy acids (such as glycolic acid), and therefore mixes with epidermal lipids and sebaceous gland lipids in hair follicles, reducing sebum secretion in acne patients.

Facial cleansing with acetylsalicylic acid is used in the following cases:

• For those prone to inflammation and acne of varying intensity.
• For increased sensitivity to temperature fluctuations and decorative cosmetics.
• For oiliness, dullness, unhealthy shine, enlarged pores.
• If there are signs of wilting or changes in contour.

Including aspirin in the recipes for facial cleansing mixtures with acids gives them not only cosmetic but also therapeutic properties. The skin is cleansed of all unnecessary things and disinfected, which minimizes the risk of infection (in the presence of inflamed acne and other lesions). Masks based on acetylsalicylic acid normalize sebum secretion, tighten pores, and even out the surface.

• Aspirin peels prevent ingrown hairs, activate metabolism, effectively and inexpensively treat acne and comedones when used independently. The addition of other active ingredients allows the drug to be used for various skin types.

It is important to follow the recipe and procedure order. Mixtures for oily and problem skin are highly aggressive. One recipe recommends grinding 6 tablets and mixing the resulting powder with lemon juice. Apply the homogeneous mass to the entire face or problem areas for about 15 minutes. Wash off with a sponge. After intensive cleaning, the skin requires intensive soothing. A herbal compress or ice will do.

For normal and dry skin, it should be actively softened (ground oatmeal, natural oils, honey). In all cases, it is necessary to use a pure preparation without impurities and additional components.

Facial cleansing with acetylsalicylic acid and honey

The method of facial cleansing with acetylsalicylic acid and honey is suitable for independent implementation. As a result, deep penetration, nutrition and saturation with moisture occur. Facial cleansing with acid and honey has a double effect:

• Exfoliates unnecessary cells.
• Moisturizes, restores, optimizes sebum secretion.

You can add additional components to the aspirin-honey mixture, taking into account your skin type, which will enhance the effect: oils, fruit juices, kefir, sea salt, cosmetic clay.

Simple recipes:

• Mix 4 tablets with a teaspoon of water and a few drops of honey;
• Mix 3 crushed tablets with 0.5 teaspoon of water, the same amount of jojoba oil and a full spoon of honey; bring to a thick, homogeneous state so that the mass does not spread over the face. Leave for about 20 minutes, remove gently, with careful movements.

Overexposure can provoke dryness and increased peeling. It is best to do the manipulation in the evening, so as not to go out in the sun until the skin is restored. Soothing masks, nourishing preparations are what the skin needs after cleansing the face with acid.

Salicylates are effective for pores, oily or aging skin. Not recommended for use during pregnancy and lactation, as well as hypersensitivity to this category of chemicals. In case of damage, including minor ones, you should wait until it heals.

Salicylic acid peel side effects

• Long-lasting erythema
• Intensive exfoliation
• Formation of crusts
• Dryness
• Pigment dyschromia
• Systemic toxicity, salicylism
• Hypoglycemia
• Contact sensitization

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies salicylic acid as a category C drug. [ 21 ] The use of peels containing aspirin is not recommended during pregnancy because its structure is closely related to that of aspirin. Aspirin use during pregnancy has been associated with miscarriage, birth defects, bleeding complications, and salicylism. On the other hand, peels containing alpha-hydroxy acids are classified as a category B drug and can be used safely during pregnancy.

Facial cleansing with fruit acids

An excellent way to rejuvenate and renew your skin with a long-lasting effect is facial cleansing with fruit acids. This is a gentle, atraumatic peeling, however, it is not recommended to do it yourself, since a mistake can be expensive. Chemical facial cleansing with acids is recommended for women over 35 to eliminate keratinization and pigment spots, rejuvenate and lighten the dermis, restore lipid balance, and combat acne.

Natural or synthetic acids are used for cleaning.

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) include glycolic acid (GA), citric acid (CA), malic acid (MA), tartaric acid (TA), and lactic acid (LA), which are all naturally occurring organic acids found in many foods and milk sugars.

Citric acid, malic acid, and lactic acid are important participants in the Krebs cycle and the fermentation process in cells. Most studies of citric and malic acids have focused on cellular metabolism and the production of adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP). In a 1971 review article, Decker reported on the nature and regulation of energy metabolism in the epidermis [ 22 ]. Malic and citric acids are abundant in many fruits and their seeds, such as cocoa pods, grapes, and blackberries [ 23 ]. Although many studies have examined the compounds in fruit extracts, few have investigated the biological functions of pure MA and CA. In 1997, the US FDA found that malic acid and citric acid are "generally recognized as safe" as food additives used as flavor enhancers, fragrances, adjuvants, and for pH control (US FDA 1997). Since then, CA and MA have been used as pH regulators and humectants (wetting agents) in cosmetic formulations [ 24 ]. However, malic acid has been found to be an irritant in clinical trials.

In previous studies, Okano et al. and Hussein et al. described the mechanisms by which glycolic acid may slow down photoaging of the skin: increasing epidermal thickness, activating fibroblasts, and increasing dermal collagen. The increase in collagen fiber density and thickness occurs as a result of glycolic acid's ability to accelerate collagen synthesis by fibroblasts, increasing the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans and collagen fibers. [ 25 ], [ 26 ]

Citric acid and lactic acid play different roles in skin cells. One study found that citric acid induced the proliferation of collagen I and procollagen II, while glycolic acid improved the epidermis and dermis, supporting the usefulness of AHAs in rejuvenating photodamaged skin [ 27 ]. In addition, citric acid at a concentration of 20% can increase the thickness of the epidermis and the amount of glycosaminoglycans in sun-damaged skin. It has also been found to increase the rate of skin renewal [ 28 ] and heal sun-damaged skin.

The cosmetologist's procedure is as follows:

• assesses the condition of the epidermis, prescribes a course of manipulations;
• selects an acid or a mixture of acids;
• does an allergy test;
• if there is no reaction, cleanse the face with a special preparation;
• applies the composition for a certain time;
• removes this composition;
• provides recommendations for further care.

Positive results occur after a course of sessions prescribed by a specialist (on average 4-6 procedures at certain intervals). It is recommended to repeat the course annually, choosing a season with minimal solar activity. Tanning is not advisable either before or immediately after the procedures.

In the first months after cleansing, activities such as going to a bathhouse, solarium, and cosmetic procedures are limited. The skin should be protected from chapping, ultraviolet radiation, mechanical impacts, and alcohol-containing cosmetics. Restrictions also apply to the diet: salty and spicy foods are excluded for several weeks.

Facial cleansing with salicylic acid

Salicylic acid is one of the best drugs for treating acne, lightening post-acne and a whole range of medical and cosmetic procedures on the skin. It dissolves in fats, penetrates the pores and cleans them. It is an ingredient in many ointments, lotions, peels, homemade masks. Facial cleansing with salicylic acid is useful because the substance has at least a triple effect:

• antibacterial;
• exfoliating;
• anti-inflammatory.

May help prevent and reduce the incidence of UV-induced skin cancer.[ 29 ]

Over-the-counter salicylic acid acne treatments include concentrations ranging from 0.05% to 5%. Higher concentrations are reserved for prescription salicylic acid products and chemical peels. The “physiologic” desquamation provided by salicylic acid results in a smoother texture and appearance of the skin and may create the illusion of reduced pore size. Unfortunately, lower concentrations of salicylic acid may provide only moderate desmolytic activity, resulting in minimal therapeutic effects.[ 30 ]

The chemical eliminates many problems: papules and pustules, spots and other pigmentation, comedones and increased oiliness. In combination with glycolic acid, salicylic acid can completely clear the face of acne, if the situation is not neglected to the point where complex treatment is required.

• Salicylic peeling is available for self-administration. However, it should be remembered that facial cleansing with acids, including the one named, is not recommended for pregnant women and women with very dry, constantly peeling skin. Side effects are also possible in other cases: hyperemia, itching, allergies, burns.

The procedure is performed for problematic, oily skin types. In this case, redness is also possible, but it quickly disappears, leaving an even, healthy color and a clean surface. The procedure is as follows:

1. Remove any remaining makeup, dust and other impurities.
2. Apply a softening agent.
3. Wipe thoroughly with antiseptic.
4. Carefully distribute the mass over problem areas.
5. Keep according to the instructions.
6. Rinse with cool water.
7. Cover your face with a cosmetic product, preferably aloe-based.

For a trouble-free recovery, the following days should protect the face from sunlight and aggressive external factors. Salicylic acid peels are an effective and safe therapy for common acne. [ 31 ]

Facial cleansing with hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is a favorite substance of cosmetologists. Facial cleansing with hyaluronic acid is only one of the procedures using the popular ingredient. Its effectiveness is explained by the fact that it is a structural component of the skin and connective tissue of the human body. Hyaluronic peeling has a double effect, since it not only removes dead epidermis, but also intensively nourishes new cells.

Hyaluronic acid (HA; also known as hyaluronate or hyaluronan) is a high molecular weight, negatively charged (polyanionic) polysaccharide and is naturally present in virtually all vertebrate tissues and fluids, including the extracellular matrix of the skin. Due to its complex interactions with matrix components and cells, HA plays a variety of roles in the skin related to both its physicochemical and biological properties. Hyaluronic acid is well known for its excellent water-holding capacity. [ 32 ] Additionally, it maintains the tissue architecture of the extracellular matrix, regulates skin elasticity, is involved in cell migration and differentiation during wound healing and inflammation, and can act as an antioxidant by limiting the movement of reactive oxygen species. Finally, hyaluronic acid is used as a topical drug delivery system for the skin. [ 33 ]

A recent study has demonstrated that micro laser peeling with hyaluronic acid serum can be successfully used for skin rejuvenation.[ 34 ]

Hyaluronic acid maintains an optimal water balance in the skin. But, unfortunately, with age, the body ceases to cope with some functions, including the formation of a natural substance. Because of this, the skin "dries out", becomes flabby and wrinkled.

• In addition to cleaning the face with acid, it is included in the formulas of external preparations, used in home masks, and used for "beauty injections." With its help, resistance to aging processes and the effects of external factors increases.

The procedure has some features that must be taken into account when performing the manipulation independently:

• Cleaning should be done after cleaning the surface. This will improve the penetration of active ingredients and enhance the rejuvenating effect.
• To avoid a reaction, conduct an allergy test.
• In salons, pure acid is applied. At home, a safe, ready-made preparation based on it is used.
• It is recommended to carry out the procedure in autumn or winter so that sun rays do not cause burns, hyperpigmentation or other complications.

Procedure order:

1. Dilute the powdered acid from the pharmacy in boiled water until it reaches a viscous consistency.
2. Apply to a clean, dry surface. Bubbles will confirm the action of the active substance.
3. After this, rinse off the remaining product, exfoliated cells and dirt with warm water.
4. Complete the procedure with a cleansing gel, toner and cream with a moisturizing and nourishing effect.

The frequency of the procedure should be agreed with a specialist. With regular use, fine wrinkles, dryness, acne, and large pores disappear. The tone increases, and the oval of the face is evened out.

Facial cleansing with lactic acid

In the body, lactic acid is formed during the breakdown of glucose, the main energy resource. There is a lot of this substance in some products - fermented milk, pickled, fermented. Purified lactic acid is sold in pharmacies, included in the formulas of cosmetic products. Lactic acid is used for facial cleansing due to its cosmetic and medicinal properties.

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid, has activities similar to glycolic acid, is inexpensive and readily available, can be used as an exfoliating agent in the treatment of melasma, [ 35 ], [ 36 ] has an antiproliferative effect in cells. [ 37 ]

Facial cleansing with acids allows you to exfoliate the upper layer of the dermis and cleanse the pores. This is an ideal preparation for mature and aging skin. Using lactic acid regularly and correctly, you can independently restore order even in very advanced cases.

• It is no coincidence that there is an opinion that Cleopatra’s famous rejuvenating baths were not just milk baths, but fermented milk baths.

The product can eliminate excess sebum and pigments, dryness and acne, cleanse and reduce pores and stretch marks, improve tone and even out the surface. The procedure can be done at home or ordered in a salon. Some tips on using lactic acid for the face:

• For daily cleansing, they sell ready-made masks, creams, peels, and scrubs from various brands.
• A pharmacy product for home use is better with 40% rather than 80% concentration. The liquid is allergenic and aggressive (at high concentrations and exposure it can cause a burn).
• Effective home remedies include sauerkraut juice and curdled milk.
• Summer is not the best time for manipulations, due to the abundance of UV.
• It is not recommended to use after a strong tan and during the first weeks after any procedures in the salon.
• Contraindications: the presence of damage, inflammation and other problems on the face, as well as diabetes, oncology, colds.

Facial cleansing with trichloroacetic acid

Peeling using 10% trichloroacetic acid (TCA), the concentration of which can be increased. [ 38 ], [ 39 ]

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) 10-40% is a peel that eliminates fine lines, discolors the skin, makes it smoother and younger. But at a concentration of 10-15%, the peel does not work on deep wrinkles or scars. Used in higher concentrations of 35-40%, it produces epidermal necrosis without serious systemic toxicity. TCA 35-40% solution is the standard for medium peels of the face and hands. In these concentrations, it should be used by qualified doctors, and extreme caution should be taken because it can cause hyperpigmentation and scarring.

During this peeling, it helps to clear deep clogged pores, effectively control and treat severe acne.

Advantages:

• eliminates visible signs of premature aging;
• Significantly improves skin texture and skin discoloration, providing excellent visibility;
• smoothes and revitalizes the skin;
• eliminates signs of photoaging in the form of dark and white colors. [ 40 ]

Contraindications to the procedure

The procedure has many contraindications for use. Thus, facial cleansing with acids is not recommended for:

• increased susceptibility to allergies;
• damage to the epidermis;
• psoriasis, herpes, rosacea;
• abundance of birthmarks;
• high dehydration;
• cold;
• diabetes;
• oncology.

Some acids, such as lactic and fruit acids, cannot be used on young skin. Fruit acids are also incompatible with tetracycline antibiotics, so such cleaning is not carried out during their use.

Contraindications also include patients with active bacterial, viral or fungal infection, tendency to keloid formation, facial dermatitis, taking photosensitizing drugs.

Consequences after the procedure

If the skin is very dirty and oily, it should be cleaned every 10 days. In other cases - once a month. Positive effects after the procedures - relief smoothing, rejuvenation, stimulation of collagen and elastin. Cells renewed by facial cleansing with acids accept any subsequent procedures and preparations with pleasure and gratitude.

• Makeup adheres perfectly to fresh epidermis: powder and foundation cover the face evenly and naturally, preserving the fruits of the makeup artist’s efforts for a long time.

Experts advise to do massages with masks between cleaning sessions – nourishing, moisturizing. This improves its regeneration and self-cleaning.

Complications after the procedure

Peeling involves the application of a chemical agent of a certain strength that causes the skin to exfoliate and then regenerate, resulting in skin rejuvenation. Although rare, complications may occur.[ 41 ]

Classification of complications after peeling:

Intraoperative: [ 42 ]

• Incorrect selection of dosage of peeling substance

Postoperative:

• Local infection.
• Contact dermatitis.
• Improper care during treatment.

Depending on the time of onset, complications may be immediate or delayed.

Immediate (within minutes or hours after peeling): [ 43 ]

• Irritation, burning, itching and pain.
• Persistent erythema.
• Edema.
• Formation of bubbles.

Delayed (for several days or weeks):

• Infections (bacterial, herpes and candidiasis).
• Scarring, delayed healing, milia and textural changes.
• Hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation and demarcation lines.
• Loss of skin barrier and tissue damage.
• Acneiform eruptions.
• Allergic reactions, toxicity and ectropion.

Random:

• Eye complications.

Complications are usually minor and more common in dark-skinned people. They are more visible in the middle and deep skin.

After the session, a brown crust forms on the face, which is why it is advisable to stay at home during these days. To avoid hyperpigmentation, creams with filters of 30 and more and bleaching preparations that block melanin production should be applied for a month.

• Complications after the procedure are associated with violation of the rules or failure to take into account contraindications.

Excessive frequency of the procedure is fraught with rosacea. Too long exposure to face cleaning with acids leads to increased dryness and related problems.

To avoid unpleasant consequences, it is necessary to strictly follow the instructions or order the procedure from professionals, and after intensive manipulations, competently restore the dermis.

Chemical peels are simple, safe, and cost-effective procedures. Although complications can occur with peels, they are unlikely. Careful knowledge of chemical peels and their risks, adequate patient counseling and education, and performing peels with all basic precautions will minimize the occurrence of complications. [ 44 ]

Care after the procedure

Regardless of where the acid facial is performed – in a salon or at home, post-procedure care is important. Chemical manipulations are stress for the skin, which should be urgently calmed. This can be done with a good moisturizing or nourishing cream, which is then applied every morning and evening. In daily care, you should use only delicate products and do not forget about sun protection. [ 45 ]

• With this treatment, the face appears in its best form after just one session. The pores are reduced and clean, inflammations, if any, gradually disappear, the skin is restored and brightened. The effect is compared to that achieved with a laser procedure.

During the first 48 hours after peeling, gentle moisturizers and cleansers should be used until the irritation from the peel subsides. It should be noted that topical steroids are effective in reducing inflammation after peeling and reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

The effect of acid peeling can be extended if you use softer cleansers after the first session. For example, a paste of hydrogen peroxide solution and bodyagi powder or any cosmetic clay. Homemade masks made from natural ingredients also work in this direction.

Superficial acid peeling is considered gentle and careful, so it does not require additional precautions and enhanced post-manipulation measures. With deep intervention in the processes occurring in the skin, a long recovery period is required. During this time, saunas, beaches, solariums, sudden temperature changes, and going out into the sunny street without cream with SPF 35 or higher are prohibited. The skin should be intensively nourished and moisturized with masks and creams.

It is important to prevent herpes simplex with antiviral drugs.

Reviews

Most authors acknowledge the effectiveness of chemical cleaning and practice it at home with expected success. They name various products: from fruits to pharmaceuticals.

An interesting non-standard review from "Stranger" debunks the benefits of facial cleansing with acids from natural fruits. The point is that the concentration of acidic components in fresh berries and fruits is insufficient for a peeling effect. Not without humor, she advises not to transfer the delicacy to masks, but to consume it internally. In her opinion, only lemon is suitable for cleansing.

In search of "rejuvenating apples", women spend huge sums on miracle products. The key advertising words are "slow down aging", "smooth out wrinkles", "renew the epidermis". The same results can be achieved with simple means, such as facial cleansing with acids - at home or in salons. This is a worthy alternative to expensive branded cosmetics.