Contents
What is milk peeling
Milk peeling is a skin cleansing and rejuvenation procedure using lactic acid. This acid (in other words – lactonic) belongs to the group of fruit acids and chemical exfoliation of surface action. This substance, a biologically related component to the human body, is a breakdown product of glucose, therefore it does not cause irritation and an allergic reaction. In nature, it is found, for example, in sauerkraut or is formed by lactic fermentation.
Compared to other fruit acids, lactic acid acts more delicately and naturally. Its molecules are small in size, therefore, there is no danger of uneven or deep penetration through the skin. Due to the action of lactic acid, a whole chain of successive processes is formed in the skin, which can lead to moisturizing, exfoliation, strengthening and whitening of the epidermis.
Professional preparations for milk peeling contain lactic acid of different concentrations and different levels of pH (acidity) from 20 to 90%. Depending on the composition, concentration of lactic acid and its exposure, the effect may be different: moisturizing, exfoliating or regenerating. To enhance results-oriented actions, lactic acid in preparations can be combined with glycolic, malic, succinic, pyruvic, as well as other anti-inflammatory or moisturizing components.
Practicing cosmetologists prefer such manufacturers as Ainhoa, BTpeel (Россия), Professional Cosmetologist, Dr. Baumann, Premium Professional, Christina Bio Phyto.
Of course, the cost of the procedure also depends on the price of the drug. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of the skin and the composition of the peeling.
Types of milk peeling
Milk peeling is conditionally divided into two mechanisms of action according to the concentration of the active substance:
Superficial peeling lactic acid has a low concentration of the active substance 20 – 30% and pH 1,5 – 3,0. Exfoliation of this procedural peel is used to cleanse the skin and in the program to correct aesthetic problems: seborrhea, acne, hyperpigmentation and wilting.
Median peeling lactic acid has a higher concentration of the active ingredient 30 – 50% (pH 2,0 – 3,5) and 50 – 90% (pH 2,0 – 3,0). Such exfoliation can start significant regenerative processes in the skin. As a result of the course of procedures, the manifestations of acne and post-acne are reduced, the skin becomes smooth and silky, fine wrinkles are smoothed out. Also, high concentration lactic acid is able to partially block the activity of a special enzyme – melanin. In fact, the fight against hyperpigmentation occurs at a deeper level.
Benefits of milk peeling
- intense skin hydration;
- exfoliation of dead skin cells;
- elimination of black spots and acne;
- smoothing fine wrinkles;
- increased skin tone;
- reduced visibility of epidermal pigmentation;
- smoothing the relief and improving the tone of the face;
- minimum rehabilitation period;
- can be used to solve problems in different parts of the body;
- the procedure is possible regardless of the season;
- minimal skin sensitivity to ultraviolet after the procedure;
- Suitable for all skin types, including ultra-sensitive and thin.
Cons of milk peeling
- Does not correct age-related changes
Lactic acid is ineffective against serious age-related changes. To correct such problems, it is worth paying attention, for example, to glycol peeling.
- Possible allergic reaction
The occurrence of an allergic reaction to the components of the drug is possible on an individual basis.
- Противопоказания
Before starting the procedure, you should familiarize yourself with a number of contraindications:
- skin damage: wounds, cracks and abrasions;
- the presence of inflammation on the face;
- skin diseases: dermatitis, eczema, etc.;
- pregnancy and lactation;
- exacerbation of herpes;
- oncological diseases;
- cardiovascular diseases;
- diabetes;
- skin burn;
- after sunburn.
How is the milk peel procedure performed?
The milk peeling procedure includes pre-peeling and post-peeling care, which is half the success of any chemical peel. The session takes about 30-40 minutes and is formed from several successive stages.
Pre-peeling
The procedure does not require special and lengthy preparation, but one cannot do without following a few recommendations. About two weeks before the session, you should refrain from visiting the solarium. On a daily basis, you can use a cream containing a small concentration of lactic acid in order to get the skin used to the drug.
It is also worth remembering that each exposure to such components on the skin increases its photosensitivity, so apply sunscreen before going outside.
Cleansing and make-up removal
Application of the drug is possible provided that the skin is completely cleansed of makeup and other contaminants. For this, the cosmetologist uses professional tools. Only clean prepared skin allows you to evenly distribute the drug.
Toning
The stage of toning and degreasing is performed by wiping the skin with a solution based on fruit acids. The penetration of lactic acid through the lipid barrier and the entire further result of the procedure directly depend on this step.
Peeling
Applying the consistency of milk peeling is done with a fan brush or cotton buds. The drug is applied over the entire area of the face, avoiding the area of the lips and eyes. The sequence of application roughly correlates with other peels: starting with areas with the greatest sensitivity and ending with areas with the least sensitivity. At the discretion of the cosmetologist, the composition of the drug can be applied in two layers with a break of 10 minutes. After maintaining the exposure time. Depending on the targeted result, the cosmetologist is able to control the penetration of the active ingredient into the required layer of the skin.
Neutralization
After the drug has acted, its work is neutralized with water. Thus, the skin does not dry out and restores its water balance.
Moisturizing and soothing the skin
The final stage of milk peeling is the application of a soothing cream or mask. The restorative components of the soothing mask will help activate the regeneration process and remove puffiness. In addition, it is mandatory to apply sunscreen with a protection factor of at least SPF 30.
Post-peel care
Depending on the composition and percentage of concentration of lactic acid in the preparation, visible peeling of the skin after the procedure may actually be absent or appear locally. In the first days after the procedure, you should not use face products with large abrasive particles, in addition, do not use decorative cosmetics and do not touch your face with your hands.
How much does it cost?
The cost of one milk peeling procedure may vary depending on the preparation and the level of the salon.
On average, the cost of one session is from 1500 to 5000 rubles.
Where is held
Milk peeling is recommended for courses in a beauty salon. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the age and condition of the skin. On average, the full course consists of 5-10 procedures with the required interval of 7-10 days.
Can it be done at home
You should not experiment with professional preparations containing lactic acid at home. There is no way to be sure that you will choose the right percentage of acid for your skin type. Specialist supervision is required.
Nevertheless, low concentration lactic acid can be used as part of home care products: in night and day creams, washing gels, lotions and serums. They will help to additionally preserve the effect of the course of procedures.
Before and after photos
Expert Opinion
Kristina Arnaudova, dermatovenereologist, cosmetologist, researcher:
– Milk peeling is one of the most gentle procedures that are in demand in cosmetology. This is due to the fact that lactonic acid, which is part of it, damages only the upper layers of the epidermis, thereby not causing active peeling. This substance does not belong to synthetic compounds, so the body does not experience severe stress during the session. Milk peeling is allowed at any time of the year – the summer season is no exception. However, do not forget about the use of sunscreens, since any damage to the epidermis by such components leads to local hyperpigmentation of the skin.
Exfoliation with milk peeling can reduce the undesirable processes that occur in our skin: excessive oiliness, acne, uneven complexion, dehydration, dryness and irritation. In my practice, I often combine milk peeling with other skin care procedures. For example, when cleaning the skin, milk peeling can be added to one of its stages. As a result, the patient and I get a double result – a quick and lasting effect for the skin of the face. An alternative method for the skin can be considered a combination of milk peeling with further application of an alginate mask. This combination is perfect for a weekend to quickly tidy up your appearance and go to work, like after a vacation. And the last thing: milk peeling is able to prepare the skin before the biorevitalization procedure, while enhancing its effect.
The effect of milk peeling is noticeable immediately, but for the best result, a course of procedures is required. In practice, this procedure is almost the most universal and gentle, without special restrictions and a rehabilitation period.