Let's talk Chemical Peels...

A chemical peel is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, neck or hands. A chemical solution is applied to the skin that causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. The new, regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. The new skin is also temporarily more sensitive to the sun. Chemical peels can be dangerous, so please make sure you research a dermatologist or anyone that is going to do such a procedure on you!!  I have a good mild do it yourself chemical peel that you can use ingredients already present in your kitchen!! Here is the one I  like to use.

Things You'll Need

• 1/4 cup white cane sugar
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• 2 bowls
• Spoon
• 1 tbsp. baking soda
• 1 cup water
• 12 uncoated aspirin
• Shallow dish
• Lemon juice
• Cotton balls

BHA Chemical Peel

Step 1

Combine the baking soda and water in a bowl. Stir to dissolve, then set aside. This is the neutralizer for the acid.

Step 2

Place the aspirin in a shallow dish. According to Dr. Mehmet Oz, host of the talk show "Dr. Oz," aspirin is a source of salicylic acid, a type of BHA.

Step 3

Sprinkle the lemon juice over the aspirin. The role of the lemon juice is twofold; it adds the exfoliating power of citric acid, an AHA, and also helps dissolve the aspirin tablets.

Step 4

Use a spoon to crush the aspirin into a thin paste. If necessary, add more lemon juice.

Step 5

Use your fingers to smooth the peel over your face, avoiding the eye area. Allow the mixture to dry for 10 minutes, then wipe off with a cotton ball soaked in the the baking soda neutralizer.

Warnings

• Individuals with aspirin allergies should not use peels containing BHA.
• AHA and BHA peels can cause mild side effects like temporary redness and irritation. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop treatment immediately.
• Alpha and beta hydroxy acids can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Use a moisturizer with SPF to avoid sunburn and irritation.

Tips

• Select finely granulated white cane sugar; large granules may scratch your skin.
• Substitute brand name aspirin for its cheaper--and equally effective--generic counterpart.