Every 27 days your skin regenerates itself. 

Ever wondered where these dead skin cells go? Probably chances are they would sit on your skin. 

This may give your skin a lot of concerns almost everyday for example acne, excess oil, acne scars, pigmentation, wrinkles, fine lines etc. Maintaining healthy and fresh skin is not difficult. Don’t let those dead skin cells dwell on your face and cause havoc. Exfoliate and let them rest in peace /get rid of them permanently. Peel them off. 

In the skin care industry, enzyme peels and chemical peels are two of the most popular exfoliating treatments. Both can be effective for a wide range of skin types and issues, with noticeable results after only one treatment. 

If you're not sure which of these peel kinds is best for your skin, here's everything you need to know.

What is a chemical peel? 

Chemical peels involve the application of a chemical/acid solution to your skin, causing the upper two layers of the skin to exfoliate. They usually differ in the strength and effectiveness depending on the concentration or potency of the active ingredients.

They are used to improve the texture and appearance of skin and are applied to the hands, face, and neck. Over time, the skin layers peel away to reveal more youthful and clear skin. Typically, the new skin is smoother and more even in color, with fewer lines and wrinkles. 

Commonly found acids found in chemical peels -

1. Glycolic Acid (AHA)

2. Salicylic Acid (BHA)

Salicylic acid is an organic compound that helps treat acne and reduces pores. As an oil-soluble ingredient, it deeply cleanses the pores. Thus it is best suitable for oily and acne prone skin types (as compared to other chemical peels).

3. Lactic Acid

Lactic acid chemical peeling is most effective for sensitive skin - or rosacea skin conditions. It helps with skin irritation, hyperpigmentation, age spots, uneven complexion, and so on.

Pros

• Avoids the occurrence of acne.
• Minimizes the pores and balances the texture of the skin.
• Provides clarity to the skin.
• Reduces skin discolouration.
• Halts scarring and smoothen the skin.

Cons

• Chemical peels which use a high concentration of  acids  like AHA may damage skin barrier. The signs of damage may include dryness, sensitivity, dullness, redness and breakouts.
• Chemical peeling can be expensive. 
• Not suitable for daily use.
• The stinging sensation immediately after the procedure.

What is an enzyme peel (micro peeling)?

An enzyme peel is made from fruit enzymes (papaya, pumpkin, aloe vera, pineapple, green apple, and others) that gently slough off dead skin layers - and promotes healthy skin. 

Enzyme peel offers the same results as that of chemical peeling, except the downtime. Since there is no downtime, it can be added to your daily skincare routine. Enzyme peeling rejuvenates the new skin tissue, reducing the appearance of large pores and wrinkles. However, enzymes in skin care are mostly used for skin conditioning - and viscosity for the skin layers. It is a good option for sensitive skin types.

Ingredients you should look for with enzymes in skincare:

• Actizyme®

Extracted from fungi Mucor miehei, Actizyme is an avant-garde medical protease.  It helps unblock clogged pores and detoxify the uppermost layers of the skin. The most important part is that it does not damage barriers while  boosting cell renewal.

• Paeonia the Suffruticosa

Extracted from Paeonia suffruticosa, Paeonia the Suffruticosa has numerous antioxidative effects. Any product with suffruticosa, like enzymatic exfoliating serum, helps with skin ageing, promoting healthier skin.

• Chondrus crispus extract

Chondrus crispus is an excellent chemical ingredient extracted from carrageenan. It helps the skin produce collagen fiber, which enhances skin elasticity - and makes it healthy and smooth. 

Pros

• Gentler on the skin (sensitive skin or skin that is easily irritated), and does not disrupt barrier functions.
• You can make it a part of your daily skin care routine.
• Cleanses the clogged and shrinking pores.
• Prevents dryness of the skin.
• Reduces the occurrence of wrinkles and scars.
• Removes all signs of ageing.
• Fades sun damage and dry skin problems.

Cons

• Takes a long time to show results.

Takeaway

Peels can be one of the effective and reliable treatments for a clean and smooth healthy skin. These can be a great upgrade in your skincare regimen. Know your skin type beforehand and then research for the right ingredient. But yes, even though now you know the importance and types of exfoliation, do not go for it daily. Excessive exfoliation can damage your skin barrier and strip off natural oils and moisture. This can make your skin dry and flaky. So it is advised to practice this twice a week, max! 

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