The 5 Things You MUST Know Before You Buy A Chemical Peel!

An at home peel is still a chemical peel. Results are similar to a professional peel, but in general due to the higher pH levels and lower acid percentages, it will take longer to achieve your end results than if you went to a plastic surgeon or dermatologist for a stronger acid peel. 

Dr James E. Fulton Jr. recommends chemical peeling for removing fine wrinkles, acne and sun damage around the eyes and mouth. Dr Fulton is the co-creator of the infamous tretinoin or RetinA prescription so highly prized for acne and antiaging. In a professional's office you could receive stronger TCA peels, Jessners solution, Phenol/Croton peel or even the popular VI peel which is layered in up to 10 layers.  

Many people find that the more comfortable process and lighter peeling work better with their daily lives than the heavy peeling and downtime associated with doctor's peels. This is why the at home peel has become so highly sought after in today's internet market. It is easy to purchase a peel online and perform it in your own house. But, there are many things that you must know and understand before purchasing a home peel. Since you are not under a doctor's care, it is best for you to do your diligent research before beginning your peeling. 

Just what do I "have" to know before I purchase you ask? You need to exercise extreme caution when you are purchasing a chemical peel for home use. When dealing with acids, shopping for the "best deal" is not an option. Use these tips to ensure you are getting a quality product from a top notch company. 

1. Is the peel created with Reagent Acids?

There are many levels of quality when dealing with ingredients. Reagent Grade (ACS) is the winner. This is the highest purity level that can be attained. Acids that are not reagent can cause excessive irritation and can introduce particles and debris into the product. Reagent grade chemicals are high in quality and purity. The American Chemical Society Committee on Analytical Reagents establishes the standards for reagent chemicals. All of our peels are created inside of an FDA registered laboratory using Reagent acids.

2. Is the peel created in a Registered laboratory?

Just as important as a product containing only the purest acids, the laboratory that takes those pristine ingredients and creates a finished product is paramount. In the age of at-home start up companies trying to make a "quick buck", peels can be created right in the home. Are you going to apply a Peel that was created with the best ingredients, in a meticulous lab that documents, inspects and certifies its finished product, or a peel that was created in a bucket in someone's garage? Think that doesn't happen? Think again. Look for insanely cheap peels (like those on Ebay) for under $10. Did they mention how the peel was created? Probably by the "company engineer" . No mention of quality, labs, acid types, pH levels? Then you know what you are looking at and you need to RUN the other way.

3. Has the company that makes the peel been in business for over a Decade?

There is nothing that makes you feel more comfortable than dealing with a company that has been in business for a long time. Longevity is important. Research the manufacturer/seller on the Internet. After a business has been in business for years, you will be able to find a great deal of information on the company. Check out Better Business Bureau reports. Has anyone filed against them? Do they have at least an A rating? A+ rating? You can't pay the BBB for a better review.

4. Does the Peel manufacturer have good reviews?

They just keep multiplying. More reviews are available every day. Go to google (or another reputable search engine) type in the company name and then add the word "reviews". You will find several to look over.There are always ways to trick the system though, so be aware of fake reviews (usually extremely negative placed by competitors), but if the company is legitimate then you will see accurate reviews that you can base an opinion on. If the majority of reviews are positive , then you probably have a winner.

5. Are the pH levels and percentages of acids Guaranteed and CERTIFIED?

Anyone can "say" that their peel is a specific percentage or pH level. Or even list it as Mild, Medium, The Best, or whatever they wish. Can they PROVE it? When a peel is created in a laboratory that guarantees the product, they can issue a Certificate. This certificate adds a Guarantee to the peel and proves that everything is as it should be. You will find that Platinum Skin Care has this. Anyone else?

If you have a peel in your house that does not meet these 5 criteria, first and foremost, consider yourself fortunate that nothing terrible happened and breathe a sigh of relief. Now, turn right around and toss the offending peel right into the garbage can. You are safe. Your skin is not something that you can "hope for the best" with. You have to use a quality peel. Acids can be dangerous if not created and handled properly.  You know what is important now, so when you are ready to do another peel, visit Platinum Skin Care to find yourself a Certified, high quality product. 

Be Safe and Happy Peeling!