Our clinical skin peels are acid blends used to resurface the outermost layers of the epidermis, using controlled stimulation of the skin’s natural processes to achieve a certain result. Depending on the depth and type of peel chosen, superficial peels can be very effectively used by skincare professionals to improve skin condition and visibly reduce lines, hyperpigmentation, acne marks and congestion.

Photo: Before (L) and after (R) a series of lactic peels for hyper pigmentation & anti-ageing.

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Peels are categorised as superficial, medium or deep. In a salon setting we are dealing with superficial peels only, including salicylic, lactic and glycolic peels in specific strengths. Do not be misled by the term ‘superficial’. Just because these peels are categorised as superficial and work on the epidermis does not mean that they can’t bring about great change in the skin and must always be used with care.
Medium and deep peels include the use of agents such as higher strength TCA (trichloracetic acid), higher strength glycolics and phenol which wound into the papillary dermis. These peels should only be carried out by a dermatologist.

Benefits:
The exfoliation process stimulates epidermal growth, thickening and strengthening the epidermis. Damaged skin is destroyed and replaced with healthier skin cells through the would healing process. Collagen and elastin production is increased through stimulation of the fibroblast cells via the inflammatory response brought about by temporarily lowering the pH of the skin’s surface. You will see smoother, plumper and more radiant skin with a reduction in visible lines and pigmentation.

The experienced therapist will be able to combine peeling modalities to adapt to each client but in general the rule is that lactic acid is a hydrating peel suitable for dry skin that needs smoothing and lightening, salicylic acid tackles congestion and oil issues and glycolics dissolve the bond between skin cells for even exfoliation.
Peels are usually taken in a series for best outcomes.

Pic: Before (L) and after (R) first peel in a series to reduce old acne scarring.

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It is very important that the therapist has the understanding and experience to choose your peel carefully via a comprehensive consultation, as skin condition and home compliance can greatly affect the outcome of your treatment, but when the therapist has a good understanding of skin anatomy and how peels work on a cellular level then they are some of the best tools at our disposal.

At home, you  will need to discontinue use of retinol based creams for the duration of the course of peels and, of course, sunblock is very important to protect the new skin. The correct homecare serum is very important at this time as active ingredients will penetrate better and boost the outcome of the treatment as a whole.

Skin Essentials by Mariga salon treatments are based around our professional salicylic and lactic peels. Our professional peels are unique in their composition in that they are oil-based. This allows for a much more comfortable peel experience for the client as the ‘sting’ factor is greatly reduced and downtime is minimised, without compromising on efficacy. Our pre-blended peels take the uncertainty out of mixing and layering acids and we offer full product and practical training to all our Skin Essentials by Mariga agents.