If you are interested in how to make your own DIY chemical peel, you should first know what ingredients to use and what steps you need to follow. Experts point out that alpha and beta hydroxyl acids, namely AHA and BHA, represent mild chemical exfoliants that are derived from organic sources such as willow bark, sugar cane, and citrus fruits.
They are usually used in superficial chemical peels. BHA and AHA work by scrubbing away dead surface cells to reveal the healthier skin beneath. Nevertheless, even if these two appear to be very similar, AHAs are used to treat the dry skin while BHAs are used to treat oily complexions. Both types of chemical peels can be found in various preparations, from dermatologist administrated treatments to over-the-counter products.
You can make a DIY chemical peel by using household ingredients
As a third option, people could use household ingredients to produce DIY chemical peel. The list of ingredients that can be used to make a chemical peel include ¼ cup white cane sugar, ¼ cup yogurt, 1 tbsp. backing soda, 1 cup water, 12 uncoated aspirin, lemon juice and cotton balls.
To make an AHA chemical peel, you will first need to mix yogurt and cane sugar into a bowl. These two ingredients provide lactic acid and glycolic acid, being members of the alpha hydroxyl family. Then, you need to stir the ingredients to obtain a granulated paste. To spread the mix over your face, use your fingertips while avoiding your eyes. Finally, you let the peel dry for 10-15 minutes and then remove it with cool water.
Nevertheless, to produce a BHA chemical peel, you should mix water and baking soda in a bowl. You have to stir the two ingredients until they dissolve. This represents the neutralizer for the acid. The next step to follow is to place the aspirin in a shallow bowl. Aspirin is a source of salicylic acid. Then, you need to squeeze the lemon over the aspirin, sprinkling the juice.
AHA and BHA peels help scrubbing away dead surface skin
The lemon juice has a double role. Firstly, it helps dissolve the aspirin and, on the other hand, the citric acid has an exfoliating power. Next, you can use a spoon to crush the aspirin and form a thin paste. If the paste is too thick, you can add more lemon juice. When applying it, use your fingers to smooth the chemical peel over your face. After the mixture dries for 10 minutes, you can wipe it off using a cotton pad soaked in the baking soda neutralizer.
If you are interested in using at-home peel masks, here are some suggestions. You can use the Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel which will leave your skin smooth, soft and glowing. Another good chemical peel is the La Prairie Cellular 3-Minute Peel which is amazing because you can see the incredible results in just three minutes. Your face will be smooth and velvety. Also, there is the Skyn Iceland with Alpha-Beta Complex that is suitable for sensitive skin. After using it, your skin will look refreshed and glowing.
Summing up, make sure you use a chemical peel mask, either you purchase one, choosing from some of the best products or you use a DIY chemical peel. Keep your face clean, smooth and refreshed!