Intended to remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells, facial peels can uncover brighter, more youthful skin and give the face a smoother, more radiant appearance. When used correctly, peels add moisture, minimize pores and increase the thickness of deeper layers of skin to promote firmness and help diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

The majority of peels, whether applied at home or in spas by professional estheticians, contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), a group of natural acids found in foods—citric acid from citrus fruits, glycolic acid in sugar cane, lactic acid in sour milk, malic acid in apples, tartaric acid in grapes and mandelic acid derived from bitter almonds, as well as others. AHA is also helpful in treating acne and improving the appearance of acne scars.

The peels offered in salons, which are categorized as mild, moderate or advanced, contain varying concentrations of alpha hydroxy acids, as well as vitamins that help to fight the signs of aging. The combined ingredients, said to increase circulation, typically produce a tingling sensation. Microdermabrasion can be incorporated into a more extensive spa treatment for deeper exfoliation and more effective regeneration of the epidermis.

 

Local Resources:

Andrea’s Organic Hair Studio & Day Spa. 6714 Lone Oak Blvd., Naples. 239-514-4707. NaplesOrganicHairStudio.com.

Assuage Spa. 9407 Cypress Lake Dr., Ste. C, Fort Myers. 239-333-1450. AssuageCenters.com.

LeMasque Facial Bar. 2126 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples. 239-234-6473. LeMasqueFacialBar.com.

Organic Skincare & Bodyworx. 13240 Tamiami Tr. N., Ste. 207, Naples. 239-514-4494. Tinyurl.com/OrganicSkinCare-Bodyworx.

Purely You Spa. 3066 Tamiami Tr. N., Ste. 302, Naples. 239-331-8266. PurelyYouSpa.com.

Skin…A Wellness Retreat. 806 Anchor Rode Dr., Naples. 239-250-5812. TheBeautyOfBeingWell.com.

Spa de Larissa. 3811 Airport Rd. N., Ste. 201B, Naples, 239-571-9900. FacialSpaDelarissa.com.