At-home Peels and Microdermabrasion

I think that it is no secret that I'm a fan of leaving certain things up to the professionals. I do not believe that even with the advancements of science that you can get the same strength or results at home as you can get in a doctor's office.

That being said, I am a huge fan of the two products above, both by Loreal.

First, the ReFinish Microdermabrasion kit...

We all know (or should know) that it is a good idea to exfoliate regularly. How often depends on your skin's sensitivity. I use this product once or twice per week, usually in the mornings. It leaves my face feeling very smooth. It in no way replaces a clinical Microdermabrasion, but it is a damn fine exfoliator and does contain aluminum oxide crystals, delivered in a creamy base. It's clinical counterpart is delivered by a technician who uses a tool to blast the face with the dry crystal powder. The temptation with this product is to rub too hard, thereby leaving red, chaffed skin. This really needs a light touch (as do all at-home exfoliators).

Now for ReNoviste, the anti-aging Glycolic peel kit...

This kit contains a 10% glycolic acid solution, which is applied with a cotton disk. The instructions are to leave it on for 5 minutes, then use another disk to apply the enclosed neutralizer. You are then to rinse your face and apply the enclosed moisturizer.

Again, this cannot compete with an in-office visit as you are working with liscensed professionals and stronger chemicals. If you have sensitive skin, this might be too harsh for you as well. What the acid peels do is another form of exfoliation, this time, delivering the results via an acid such as glycolic or alpha hydroxy instead of scrubbing. I personally love this peel product above all the other over the counter ones that I've tried. I try to do one every week or two because I do see results.

*Please note that this commentary is in no way an attempt to replace the advice of a doctor. You are dealing with chemicals here, and it is always a good idea to have the "go ahead" by a professional.