Wash and tone before you begin.

Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids should always be applied to clean skin. But there are a couple of points to keep in mind so that you can get the most out of the facial peel.

The Facial Cleanser: Make sure that the pH of your facial cleanser is less than 5%. Anything more than this will reduce the effectiveness of the acid in the peel. If you do not know the pH level of your cleanser, wait at least 30 minutes before applying the peel so that your skin can neutralize.
The Skin Toner: Toning is an often over looked, yet critical component. If you use an acidic toner after you wash your face, you won't have to worry about reducing the effectiveness of the peel. You will also start getting the natural anti-bacterial benefits of the toner which means that you've already begun to treat your acne.

Why does pH matter so much?

Your skin has a natural protective barrier that is slightly acidic and this helps to defend against bacteria. Many people who suffer from acne do so because they have a higher pH level than normal. This is why acidic skin toners are recommended to help fight acne. Having low pH does not guarantee that you will prevent breakouts but the lower pH level in your skin will help to kill the bacteria that eventually causes you to break out.

When is a chemical peel most effective?

A facial peel is most effective within the first 10 minutes of application. After that point the pH level of your skin will rise enough to effectively neutralize the acid. This is generally the case if you are using an alpha or beta hydroxy acid with a concentration that is less than 5%. Acids with higher concentrations will continue to be active for allot longer.

How can you halt a chemical peel?

To neutralize the acid, all you have to do is rinse your face with water. If the acid concentration is higher than 5%, a solution of baking soda and water or even a mild cleanser should be sufficient. This will raise the pH level of your skin and halt the process. But you should not need, nor should you use such a high concentration yourself. This is best left to the professionals.

Finishing the process

An at-home chemical peel kit should always include a recovery serum. But there is one remaining cream that you must apply: sunscreen. It cannot be stressed enough.

What are the important lessons?

An alpha or beta hydroxy acid peel works best when your skin's pH is at the right level.If the purpose of the peel is to get rid of acne, you will get the most benefit if you use a toner before you apply the peel.There is only a small window of opportunity, usually 10 minutes, for the acid to be effective.Alpha and Beta hydroxy acids increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun and particularly the possibility of sunburn. Always use a sunscreen and limit sun exposure for a least a week afterwards.
Start now!

A facial peel is easy to do, it's safe and effective when done properly and can be done in the comfort of your own home. Get rid of your acne today with Brendita's Body Works Alpha Beta Hydroxy Combination Weekly Peel Kit. This spa quality facial includes everything you need in a convenient kit. It removes dead and damaged cells without physical exfoliants, so there is no risk of skin tearing. You will see a noticeable difference in your skin tone and complexion after just 6 week.

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