Skin lightening products are among the top-selling cosmetics on the market, but only a few of these have an effect on the skin because they may not penetrate deep into the skin’s tissues to make a difference. For many people, a series of
chemical peels can help to get rid of pigmented skin and can effectively lighten the complexion. The
Illuminize Peel by SkinMedica Aesthetics is one medical-grade product that does have skin lightening benefits, and may help many people achieve noticeable results.
What Is the Illuminize Peel?
The Illuminize Peel is a superficial chemical peel made with next-generation alpha-hydroxy acids and peeling agents. The peel consists of mandelic acid, malic acid, phytic acid, salicylic acid and resorcinol that work together to lift out pigmentation and dead skin cells, and slowly lighten the skin.
The Illuminize Peel is currently available at medical spas and cosmetic surgery centers around the United States and is administered by a medical aesthetician or a licensed physician. The peel is applied directly onto cleansed skin and left to sink deep into the skin tissues, before it is removed. A chemical reaction is caused deep under the skin’s layers, which encourages the production of fresh new cells and increases the cell turnover rate. A few days after the peel, the top layer of skin will begin to shed slightly and the skin will appear much lighter, clearer and more even-toned.
Benefits of the Illuminize Peel
Unlike standard chemical peels available at
medical spas and cosmetic surgery centers, the Illuminize Peel does not cause a lot of shedding of the skin, and there is little downtime and discomfort involved. Other key benefits of the Illuminize Peel include:
- Mild enough for even darker skin types
- Improves the clarity and texture of the skin instantly
- Tightens and tones the skin to create a more youthful appearance
- Non-invasive skin rejuvenation procedure
- Can be combined with other facial procedures such as microdermabrasion
- Results can be seen within hours after the treatment
- Little to no redness involved
- Makeup can be applied shortly after the treatment
People who have the Illuminize Peel can return to regular activities shortly after the treatment, and will start to see better results for the days and weeks after the session. Patients are encouraged to stay out of direct sunlight for at least 48 hours after a chemical peel because the skin can be especially sensitive to the sun’s rays. Makeup and skincare products that contain sun protection factor are needed for the days and weeks after the treatment, and as part of a healthy skin regime.
Many over-the-counter skin lightening products fail to deliver effective results because they do not stimulate cell turnover and cannot get rid of existing pigment. Chemical peels are often the best solution for skin with traces of sun damage, acne scars and other types of pigmentation.
Learn more about
chemical peels in our information guide, or consult with a
medical spa in your area to find out if you are a good candidate for the Illuminize Peel.
Published: 07/17/2009, Last Updated: 07/17/2009
By LocateADoc.com Medical Staff Writers
Our writers strive to present an objective, upfront and open view of the medical procedures you're interested in. We present you with both the good and bad, and work to represent both doctors' and patients' points of view. Our articles contain facts and statistics obtained from medical associations, medical and surgical journals, and through doctor and patient interviews.