Tuesday, January 22, 2013

What is a Jessner’s Peel and what to expect?

What is a Jessner’s peel treatment?

A Jessner’s peel is a medium-depth peel that is designed to improve more extensive skin damage than an alpha-hydroxyl-acid peel can provide. It is made of salicylic acid, for penetration, lactic acid for exfoliation and resorcinol (which is great for the treatment of acne).

How does a Jessner’s peel treatment benefit me?

  • Reduces the appearance of acne scars
  • Reduces hyperpigmentation
  • Smoothes fine lines and wrinkles
  • Improves overall complexion
  • Helps loosen stubborn acne
  • Restores a youthful glow
  • Customized treatment for more extensive skin damage

How does the Jessner’s peel treatment work for me?

The combination of the substances used to formulate a Jessner’s peel, make this such a powerful and effective skin therapy. The components are put together because they exfoliate the outer layers of your skin, which promotes the natural peeling of those top layer(s) a few days after the treatment. Once peeling has subsided, you are left with visibly clear, smooth, vibrant skin. This is why a Jessner’s treatment is especially suited for anyone who has sun damage or mild to severe acne.

What can I expect during the treatment?

Your skin is cleansed with a glycolic cleanser to remove dirt, oil and the outermost layer skin, which allows proper penetration of the Jessner’s mix. Then, the solution is applied. It will burn slightly; however, we relieve this sensation with a fan blowing cool air on your treated area. Depending on the severity of the area being treated, several layers of solution may be applied. During the process a white “frost” will develop on your skin but will dissipate in a few hours. The peel is neutralized and removed with cold water. Finally a calming mask is applied.
You will peel for about seven days afterwards, and your skin will turn from pink to brown. Once the process is complete, nice new skin is revealed. If needed, this peel can be repeated again in four week intervals, until your desired results are accomplished. Usually only one treatment is necessary.

Am I a candidate for the Jessner’s treatment?

The Jessner’s peel is excellent for men and women if you are concerned about lines, uneven skin tone and acne. Jessner’s solution is not, however, recommended for darker skin types.

Can I expect downtime after a Jessner’s treatment?

You can expect about seven days of peeling.

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

How Kojic Acid Works

Kojic Acid Mechanism

Kojic acid is commonly used as a skin whitening agent, due to its ability to prevent the formation of melanin, which is the primary skin pigment. This is thought to be a result of kojic acid's ability to bind copper. Copper is needed for an enzyme, known as tyrosinase, to work. Tyrosinase is a protein that breaks down tyrosine, an amino acid. The products of this breakdown stimulate melanocytes, small cells that that produce melanin, which causes pigmentation of the skin. As a result, application of kojic acid can effectively treat hyperpigmentation; its effects have been documented in a 1999 study performed by Dr. Kim in Singapore, and published in the Journal of Dermatological Surgery.