Acne is one of the most common skin challenges in the U.S., and it’s not just limited to teenagers. In fact it impacts all ages, races and genders. Nearly 60 million Americans have active acne and 20 million are at risk of developing scar tissue as a result.
As aesthetic professionals how might we help clients combat this uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing skin challenge? There are a number of solutions at our disposal, one of which is the Italian Herbal Peel. It works with impure, blemished and oily skin types to increase cell turnover, reduce bacterial count, minimize oil production, and smooth rough texture.
Fighting Acne with Nature and Science
Treating acne conditions requires a delicate balance. Not only is it necessary to break the skin (and sebum) down, clear clogged pores, and reduce bacteria, you also have to nourish, hydrate and heal the skin to prevent future breakouts and scarring.
Fortunately nature and science afford us a number of tools to effectively address each of these essentials. The Italian Herbal Peel utilizes many of these blemish-fighting ingredients and also works to heal and nourish the skin.
- Green Tea – contains a high antioxidant value and works to neutralize free radicals.
- Salicylic Acid – works as a surface exfoliant, and provides antiseptic and antioxidant benefits. Salicylic is a keratolytic and is lipid soluble, so it works to soften comedones and rejuvenate the skin.
- Glycolic Acid – an AHA, it provides rapid penetration and desquamation (more so than any other AHA). It has a smaller molecular structure, increasing its ability to absorb. Glycolic also improves the structural integrity of the skin far beyond surface level.
- L-Lactic Acid – provides hydrating and exfoliating properties.
- Ursolic and Betulinic Acids – both provide anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-carcinogenic properties.
- Herb Extracts – extracts such as oregano and thyme soften, digest and exfoliate dead cells, as well as provide antibacterial and antiviral benefits. Basil also provides antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Retinol – promotes cell turnover, strengthens capillaries and encourages collagen synthesis.
- Growth Factors – proliferates cell renewal, healing and tissue regeneration.
The Results
The goal of this treatment is to reduce bacteria, smooth the skin, soften and dissolve cellular build-up, and normalize the skin overall. After the peel, clients can anticipate some mild tenderness with some exfoliation occurring a few days after.
Following the healing time, the skin will be softer, less oily, smoother and more even in tone and texture. Clients love the tantalizing herbal scent of this treatment and the ancillary anti-aging benefits it produces. Skin will also feel more firm, healthier and rejuvenated.
For more information, or to download the protocol for the Italian Herbal Facial visit our Protocols page.