ALPHA HYDROXYACID PEEL

Alpha Hydroxyacid is the term used for several naturally occurring acids found in fruits and other foods. These include lactic aid, derived from sour milk;citric acid, derived from citric fruit such as organs; and glycolic acid, derived from sugar cane. Alpha hydroxacids have been used for centuries. Cleopatra used lactic acid from sour milk to lessen lines and blemishes on her face.

Alpha hydroxyacids are helpful in treating a variety of skin aliments. They have proven to be effective in treating dry skin, acne, liver or sun spots, lessening fine facial wrinkles, and improving skin texture. Alpha hydroxyacids also work by loosening and removing dead skin cells.

Many people ask Alpha hydroxyacid are safe. It is important to point out that these acids are in many of the healthiest foods we eat and drink including orange juice. They are thought to be very safe when used correctly.

Alpha hydroxyacids can be used in low concentrations as found in many cosmetics available over the counter, in medium concentration as found in many cosmetic available over the counter, in medium concentrations which are available in doctor's offices, and in high concentrations. When used in high concentrations, they are best applied by a doctor at intervals of three to six weeks. This is known as a series of acid peels. The Alpha hydroxyacid used most commonly for peels in gylocic acid. Unlike other chemicals peels, Alpha hydroxyacid are not toxic to the skin.

Side Effects :

* The most common side effect after peel is brown discoloration of the skin. This usually reversible but can vary rarely by permanent. This side effect usually occurs only in those who have had sun exposure after a peel.
*If you get cold sores, a peel can cause them to flare. This can be prevented by talking a prescription drug named Acyclovir.

Why should not have a peel :

If you have any of the following problems, a peel should not be done at this time and you need to let us know immediately.

* Active herpess simplex (cold sores)
*Facial Warts
*If you are new pregnant
*If you form keloid or hypertrophic scars
*If you have a history of sun allergies
*Prior bad reaction to a peel
*Recent radiation treatment for cancer
*Sun burn or significant sun exposure in the last two days
*Surgery or cryosurgery within the last month to the area hat you plan to have peeled.

What to do before Your Peel :

* Two weeks before you peel, begin your Neostrata regimen, recommended by your doctor.
*At least three to four weeks before you first peel, stop using Retin-A and exfoliating sponges.
* All forms of hair removal should be stopped at least three to four weeks before you peel.
*Come to the office with a duly cleansed face. If possible, no cologne or after shave should be applied. Also try to avoid shaving the day of your peel.
*In order to prevent an unanticipated deepening of your peel, please inform your doctor if you have accidentally used one of the restricted products.

How the Peel is Done :

* First, the doctor will review the possible side effects of a peel with you and give you a consent form to sign.
*Next, your skin will be cleansed thoroughly with Neostrata Pre Peel cleanser.
*Petroleum jelly will be applied to the corners of the eyes, nose and mouth.
*Glycolic acid will then be applied to one area of the face at a time. The glycolic acid will then be left on the skin for several minutes. The skin will burn and tingle. When the skin becomes uncomfortable, let the doctor know and she will neutralize the peel.
*After the peel has been neturalized, the face is rinsed. NutriCream and sunscreen are then applied.

What to do After Your Peel:

* For 2-4 days after the peel, apply the Post-Peel NutriCream twice daily until the skin returns to its normal appearance. Then restart your maintenance regimen of NeoStrata Products.
*You must use a sunscreen of SPF 25 or higher every morning before going out. Sunlight on the skin after a peel can cause brown discoloration of the skin. Apply the sunscreen over the Neostrata NutiCream. A good sunscreen to use in Shade Lotion SPF 45 or Spectraban.
*You may start wearing make-up the day after your peel, provided you do not have crusting or redness.
*To avoid the possibility of scarring, please do not peel, pick, scrape or scratch the skin. Avoid the use of abrasive or exfoliating sponges.
*If you have persistent redness in an area, let your doctor know right way. Persistent redness of the skin can lead to brown discoloration of the red area if it is not treated promptly.
*Do not use Retin- A during your peel sessions and for one month after the last peel..
*During your series of peels, and for at least one month after the last peel, you should not have hair removed by any technique because it can cause severe irritation of the skin. Also, you should avoid intense sunlight because you are sensitive to the sun as well.