DAYSPA is the business resource for spa & wellness professionals! Each issue covers the latest in skin care, spa treatments, wellness services and management strategies.
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40 DAYSPA | AUGUST 2016 SPOTLIGHT ON... Acid-based Exfoliation Spa pros delve beneath the surface for an enlightening look at this popular skin-rejuvenating protocol. By Laura Beliz Why is chemical exfoliation—particularly acid exfoliation—so great for the complexion? Gwen McGuire, spa director, Nature's Spa by Jurlique at the Hotel Palomar, San Diego: Chemical exfoliation rejuvenates and brightens dull complexions by dissolving dead skin cells and helping to increase the rate of cell turnover. Lisa Masserio, owner and licensed esthetician, @LisaMiamiSkin LLC, Miami: Chemical exfoliants prevent surface buildup of dead skin cells and help improve penetration of skincare products. They're typically less abrasive than mechanical exfoliants, which makes them appropriate for acne-prone skin. Gina Coffman, lead esthetician, Island Hotel Spa, Newport Beach, California: Chemical exfoliation is great for keeping skin looking youthful, blemish free and smooth. Thanks to their antioxidant properties, these exfoliators also boost skin's ability to protect itself against environmental stressors. They remove the top layers of dry, dead cells more evenly than grainy mechanical scrubs—evenly being the key word. Acid exfoliators can be gentler on skin than a cleansing brush—and much more effective. Brenda LeCompte, owner and manager, Swan Cove Day Spa and Salon, Stevensville, Maryland: An acid exfoliant in particular is more potent than creams or lotions—it dissolves surface skin debris to reveal a brighter and smoother complexion, while encouraging new cell growth. This helps decrease dryness and enhance collagen production. Acid- based peels can also lighten hyperpigmentation, unclog pores, and reduce sebum production and the appearance of fi ne lines. What's the difference between alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs)? McGuire: AHAs and BHAs both dissolve the protein, or 'intercellular glue,' that holds dead skin cells to © GETTY IMAGES