Why would we want to use acids on our skin? AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) stimulate 3 important things:
1. GAG cells
2. Fibroblasts
3. Basal Cell Turnover
GAG cells produce Hyaluronic Acid (HA). HA is essential in the formation of healthy skin tissue. It controls inflammation, promotes wound healing, facilitates cell migration, acts as an antioxidant, and can hold 1,000 times its weight in water. Simply said, HA makes the skin supple.
Fibroblasts in the Dermis are triggered by AHA’s. (Retinoids also trigger fibroblasts but that is another story.) Fibroblasts are responsible for the production of collagen and elastin fibers. These protein fibers provide strength for the skin. A wrinkle is an area on the skin with broken down collagen and elastin fibers.
Basal Cell Turnover is our skin’s metabolism. The migration of fresh skin cells from the basal layer in the epidermis happens at a fast rate when we are young and slows down as we age. AHA’s increase metabolism and keep the skin young.
The Master Esthetics Elite line consists of the following treatment and balancing products (now available):
Treat-
Gentle Facial Wash– 15% Glycolic at 3.0 pH
Use daily for signs of aging, acne, and blackheads.
Treatment Cream– 30% Glycolic at 3.0 pH
Use as a night cream for signs of aging.
AHA Accelerator– 12.5% Glycolic, 12.5% Lactic at 3.0 pH
Use as a night serum for signs of aging and for controlling breakouts.
Balance-
Vitamin C Cleanser– for irritated, dry, or rosacea skin.
Vitamin C Serum– high concentration of Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, controls post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Vitamin C Cream– occlusive serum, rich in antioxidants, controls inflammation.
A balance product must always be used with a treatment product. The more active your product, the more balance your skin needs. Our Estheticians can coach you on how to ween up to these products and how to balance the activity on your skin so that your end result is a brighter, smoother complexion.
If you are at all considering getting more active with these treatment products in your regimen, the first step is to receive our 1 Hour Facial with AHA Peel or AHA Quick Peel.