Dérmica offers BHA treatment options in Edmonton, AB.
BHA stands for Beta Hydroxy Acid, and in skincare there are only a few specific acids that fall into the BHA category, for example, betahydroxybutanoic acid, tropic acid , and trethocanic acid.
Primary BHA Used at Dérmica
Salicylic Acid With anti‑inflammatory and antibacterial properties, salicylic acid is the most popular BHA used in professional settings. Its oil‑soluble nature, anti‑inflammatory properties, and ability to refine pores make BHA a versatile exfoliant that addresses multiple skin concerns while supporting overall skin clarity. Examples of conditions include:
Acne and congestion
Blackheads and whiteheads
Excess oil production
Inflammation and redness
BHA for Acne‑Prone/Oily Skin
BHA is particularly effective for this skin type because it is oil‑soluble. This allows it to penetrate deep into the pore lining to help dissolve excess sebum, dead skin cells, and debris that clog pores and leads to pimples, blackheads, milia, etc.
BHA helps with milia because it has resurfacing properties. So, not only does it help remove excess oil on the skin, but it helps to exfoliate by removing the dead skin cells so it dissolves the binding glue or the lipids that hold the dead skin cells together so it reveals a fresh new layer of skin at the surface which then pushes impurities up to the surface such as milia and deep acne.
By exfoliating inside the pore rather than just on the surface, BHA helps prevent the formation of new acne while smoothing skin texture. Additionally, salicylic acid has mild antibacterial and anti‑inflammatory properties.
BHA for Rosacea/ Redness
Speaking of anti‑inflammatory properties, salicylic is great for treating skin conditions that lead to redness and sensitive skin, for example, Rosacea. Its anti‑inflammatory action helps calm redness and soothe irritation—two symptoms of this skin type. When introduced in a professional setting and paired with appropriate skincare at home, BHA can promote smoother, calmer, and more resilient skin for individuals managing constant redness.
Deep peels are classified as medium to strong skin acids. They range from 20% to 85% and can be layered. They are ideal for pre-treated skin and provide deeper resurfacing of the skin. May cause visible shedding and flaking.
Mild Peels “Boosts” (10 – 20%)
BOOST peels are classified as mild skin acids. They can be used to pre-treat the skin before transitioning into stronger skin peels. Great for seasonal maintenance. Boost peels are available only as an addition to facials and dermaplane treatments.
Who should avoid BHA in chemical peels?
BHA is not suitable for people that are allergic to aspirin or other similar medications. People that are taking medications that cause photosensitivity or adverse reactions to the skin should avoid BHA treatments.
In addition, avoid BHA if you are using topical medications for skin conditions or are on oral medications for acne. It is always best to consult with your dermatologist, physician, or pharmacist, and go by their recommendations.
How can I get rid of ingrown hairs and bumps on my face and scalp?
Let’ start by understanding the cause of these bumps on the scalp…
Razor bumps are often caused by close shaving and barbering techniques. The shaved areas of the skin endure micro-trauma over the protrusion of the hair follicle. The damage is often due to dull blades, excessive pressure, repeated passes, and/or shaving against the grain.
Our skin’s natural response to trauma is to repair and rebuild the damaged tissue, causing a blockage over the opening of the follicle. This blockage prevents the hair strand from breaking through to the surface of the skin. The hair strand will continue to grow and coil back into the skin causing it to swell.
What treatment is recommended for getting rid of these bumps?
Our preferred method to treat scalp folliculitis is with salicylic acid peels or ‘Acne Treatment”. Known for its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory benefits, Salicylic Acid is an effective solution for this and other skin conditions.
What to expect during your treatment…
Salicylic acid is applied to the area for 2-8 minutes and can be layered to intensify the treatment. The acid penetrates deep into follicles where it loosens and softens the oils and buildup. This allows for the hair to become dislodged as the skin begins to shed the excess layers above the follicle opening.
The treatment takes 30-45 minutes and may require manual extraction of the trapped hair. The chemical peel process is repeated 3-4 weeks apart until desired results are achieved, on average 4-6 sessions are required for maximum results.
What should I be doing at home?
Products containing Salicylic Acid are great for at-home treatment. Regular use of these products will continue the treatment process and boost results.
TIPS
Proper home care is key for maximizing results and preventing future breakouts. Here are some tips to follow:
Keep the area dry and clean.
Avoid wearing headgear for extended periods.
Do not shave down to the skin with razors.
Use electric trimmers with a guard to avoid close shave.
Exfoliate skin regularly.
Avoid picking at live skin.
While the visibly bumpy appearance on the skin is the most common concern, other far more concerning issues can arise from these bumps on the scalp. These skin flare-ups can cause scarring, permanent hair loss, bacterial and fungal infections. In severe cases, your skincare specialist may suggest a visit with your doctor for testing or diagnosis before commencing treatment.
Our role is to help improve the general health of your skin through professional care, products, and care recommendations. Call to book your complimentary phone consult with one of our skincare specialists!
Throughout December, save $55 on your Back Acid (Chemical) Peel!
A peel involves chemically removing the outermost layers of the skin which in return promotes exfoliation and cell turnover. Depending on the type of peels used they can help treat fine lines, textural issues, acne, scarring, redness and provide a fresher, healthier appearance to the skin.
Through a a proper consultation, your professional service provider will educate you about the peel and the expected outcomes including post treatment instructions.
Whether you’d like to use acid peels as an anti aging method, or have a clear skin goal, your service provider can create a treatment plan customized for you.
-TYPES OF ACID PEELS-
ENZYME PEEL
Our
Enzyme Peel is a 20% multi-fruit acid complex made of white grape wine and
fresh fruit pulp that gently exfoliates the upper epidermis while wine
polyphenols condition the skin. A great introductory-level peel ideal
for all skin types.
BRIGHTENING PEEL
This
acid peel solution provides intense exfoliation for combination and dry skin
types concerned with aging and hyperpigmentation. It contains 35% glycolic and
35% lactic acid. Ideal for dry and sensitive skin types.
ACNE PEEL
This 20% salicylic
acid solution provides intense exfoliation for problematic or oily skin areas,
even within oil-rich pores. Intense exfoliation for problematic or oily
skin areas, even within oil-rich pores.
RETINOL PEEL
This
1% Retinol and Vitamin C peel provides softer, firmer, brighter skin and
diminishes the appearance of pores. Can be booked alone or added to another
peel for an extra boost. Ideal for all skin types except acne,
breakouts, and sensitivity.
NOTE: To be eligible for the Acne or Retinol peels, your skin must be pretreated with AHA or BHA (e.g. Enzyme Peel or pretreated with home care)
PLEASE REVIEW THE CRITERIA BEFORE
BOOKING YOUR PEEL.
Pre-treatment
protocols:
Must not currently be on or have used Accutane or any other oral prescription acne medications in the past 12 months
If currently using any products containing AHA/BHA/Retin A/Vitamin A on the area being treated, you must discontinue usage 2 weeks prior to procedure
Must wait a minimum of 1 week from last tanning session
Time
frame: 15-30 minutes
Recommended sessions: 4-8
Downtime required: 1-7 days
Contraindications:
Diabetes
Pregnancy
Skin cancer (remission under 2 years)
Use of photosensitive medication and herbs
Active infection of Herpes Simplex in treatment area
Active skin infection
Potential
side effects:
Discomfort
Fragile skin
Edema (swelling)
Erythema (redness)
Visible shedding
This special is not valid with any other offer/promotion. No pre-purchasing; Ends December 31, 2019.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular chemical peels and their benefits.
1. Glycolic Acid
This is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and is made up of the smallest molecules compared to others.
Do not let the molecule size fool you though, glycolic acid is a powerhouse in terms of performance. This acid exfoliates the outermost layers of skin but also has the ability to penetrate deeper into the skin and stimulate cell turnover. Glycolic acid works from the inside out which provides a plumper appearance. Think lighten, brighten and tighten.
2. Lactic Acid
Yes you guessed it, this acid is milk-derived and is also an AHA. Lactic acid is wonderful for hydration, brightening and the best choice for those with sensitive skin. This is one of the more gentle peels and a great option for beginners or those who are not a candidate for more aggressive peels.
3. Salicylic Acid
This is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) and is derived from willow bark. This acid is made up of a larger molecular size which means it works on the outer layers of skin. This acid is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory making it the top choice when dealing with acne, redness and oily skin. We like to think of this acid like Pac-Man running along the surface of the skin gobbling up dead skin cells and breaking through oil.
SAVE 15% ON ALL IN-STORE GLO SKINCARE WITH YOUR PEEL
When professionally treating your skin, it’s ideal to supplement your treatment with a proper homecare regimen. Professional skincare products add vitamins and nutrients that boost cell rejuvenation thereby extending the results of your peel. Visit our ONLINE SKINCARE STORE to peruse our professional Skincare products.
and begin your journey to fresh smooth skin!
Love, Peace, and Great Skin!
Dérmica MedEsthetics
(780) 885-7108
dermica.ca
Happy New Year! To kick off the new year, our monthly special is 40% OFF all chemical peels.
Our peels have been designed to safely remove the outer layers of the skin through the application of organic acids derived from various natural sources. This process brings fresh plump cells to the surface of the skin giving it a vibrant, healthy, smooth and even appearance.
We offer 3 different types of chemical peels to address different skin concerns.
Shop professional skincare products recommended by Dérmica!
Try our Home Care Selection Guide to choose the right products to target your skin type and concerns!
This is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and is made up of the smallest molecules compared to others.
Do not let the molecule size fool you though, glycolic acid is a powerhouse in terms of performance. This acid exfoliates the outermost layers of skin but also has the ability to penetrate deeper into the skin and stimulate cell turnover. Glycolic acid works from the inside out which provides a plumper appearance. Think lighten, brighten and tighten.
Yes you guessed it, this acid is milk-derived and is also an AHA. Lactic acid is wonderful for hydration, brightening and the best choice for those with sensitive skin. This is one of the more gentle peels and a great option for beginners or those who are not a candidate for more aggressive peels.
This is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) and is derived from willow bark. This acid is made up of a larger molecular size which means it works on the outer layers of skin. This acid is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory making it the top choice when dealing with acne, redness and oily skin. We like to think of this acid like Pac-Man running along the surface of the skin gobbling up dead skin cells and breaking through oil.
and begin your journey to fresh smooth skin!
Love, Peace, and Great Skin!
Dérmica MedEsthetics
(780) 885-7108
dermica.ca
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