Beta Chemical Peel for Faces

Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are simple organic fruit acids that can be found naturally or synthesized. There are closely related to alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) but differ slightly in their molecular structure and mode of action. BHA ingredients may be listed as:

• Salicylic acid
• Salicylate
• Sodium salicylate
• Willow extract
• Beta hydroxybutanoic acid
• Tropic acid
• Trethocanic acid

Salicylic acid, a common beta hydroxy acid, has been used for treating acne for decades. In fact, acne treatment remains the primary use for beta hydroxy acids. Its effect on the epidermis and upper dermis are similar to those of Retin-A, but with less irritation. It is soluble in oil and can exfoliate oily skin areas, even within oil-rich pores. Therefore, it has a beneficial effect on acne, pigmentary disturbances, and sun damaged skin. Because it does exfoliate, it has recently been added to formulations for chemical skin peel(s).

AHA's, such as glycolic acids, have been used as a chemical skin peel for the last few decades. Chemical skin peels are solutions that are applied to skin to expose the underlying newer skin by removing the uppermost damage skin cells. The resulting uncovered newer skin is smooth and uniform in texture, thereby improving and revitalizing appearance. Both BHAs and AHAs are classified as mild chemical peels.

More recently, BHAs, or a combination of AHAs and BHAs, have appeared as ingredients in these skin care products. While both AHAs and BHAs are act as exfoliants, it has been claimed that BHAs are effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improving overall skin texture, without the occasional irritation associated with the use of AHAs. BHAs is believed to penetrate the skin more deeply than AHAs, and is more gentler.

Candidates for BHA chemical peels are similar to those candidates for AHA peels and entail those with skin impairments such as:

• Superficial wrinkles of the face, neck, upper chest, arms, etc.
• Uneven pigmentation problems
• Enlarged facial pores
• Superficial acne scars of the face
• Age (liver) spots

Beta Chemical peels can truly retexturize the skin, restoring the radiance of your youth. Be sure to consult with a doctor or dermatologist to see if you're an appropriate candidate for BHA chemical peel. Doing so will help you get the most from your treatment and minimize problems down the road.