This innovative Korean sponge-based treatment is a great alternative to traditional chemical peel and microneedle treatments! The Green Sea Peel is an effective, thorough, complete resurfacing service that does not use AHAs or BHAs, doesn't change the pH of the skin, and does not break the skin's surface or outermost layer! Read on to learn about this incredible treatment alternative, pre and post care, as well as contraindications. If you have any questions at all, please contact Nomad Girl Beauty!
Resurfacing? But Aren't Sponges Soft and Squishy?
Yes, but also no! While the exterior may have that soft and pliable texture that you are used to, the interior structure (endoskeleton) is made up of something called spicules. These are sharp, pointed, barbed structures made up of silica and calcium carbonate that contain important minerals and nutrients that are beneficial for skin health.
spic·ule /ˈspikyo͞ol/ a minute sharp-pointed object or structure that is typically present in large numbers
While this ingredient is becoming better known in the Western world, this natural peeling ingredient has been used for centuries! Besides the benefits of a peel, spicules also provide a microneedle effect without breaking the skin and without the same level of invasiveness-it is much gentler to the skin!
Interesting notes:
There are thousands of species of sponges, and each can be identified by its unique spicule structure!
Every year, thousands of compounds have been isolated from marine sponges and are being used in clinical trials for a variety of concerns and treatments.
Unlike traditional chemical peels, the Green Sea Peel does not change the skin's pH, and no protein denaturation occurs!
Bonus benefits: This treatment can be used by all skin types and ethnicities! It is also suitable for people who are pregnant and breastfeeding
The Green Sea Peel does not include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs)
Straightforward and simple pre and post treatment care
Inside the spicule, there is a polypharmacy of minerals and elements, Vitamin D, amino acids, and more. This blend of natural elements treats a wide variety of concerns and skin issues, working alongside an effective homecare regimen.
Acne: High concentrations of zinc, linoleic acid, and natural inflammatory ingredients are known to be very beneficial. Copper as an ingredient has been shown to help with the appearance of textural concerns.
Hyperpigmentation (excess pigmentation): Minerals such as zinc and B12 suppress melanocyte (melanin containing cells) stimulating factors. The appearance of hyperpigmentation lifts right out of the skin over time with continued treatments. Best results for treating the appearance of hyperpigmentation will be seen with a series of treatments. Texture & Scarring: When the epidermis peels away, and with homecare maintenance, the appearance of superficial texture and scarring may be alleviated. Much like hyperpigmentation, the appearance of best results will be seen with a series of treatments. Anti-Aging: Improves the appearance of overall texture and tone of skin!
How Are The Spicules Applied, and How Do They Work?
After cleansing and prepping the skin, the Green Sea Peel products are mixed with an activator that contains hyaluronic acid, glucan and allantoin. The combination of the hydrolyzed sponge spicules and the activator are applied to the skin and gently massaged and/or tapped into the skin. The spicules dissolve in the epidermis (not below it!) releasing a variety of minerals and elements, all of which can help with the appearance of a variety of skin concerns. This treatment gives the results of a better peel with less downtime!
What Should I Expect From This Treatment?
During and immediately after:
Prickly sensation
Reddish skin
A prickly, warm sensation may be expected up to 24 hours
Days 1-2:
Your skin may feel dry, even a little sandy
The prickly sensation may be felt for up to 48 hours
Days 3-5
Skin starts to flake
Prickly feeling subsides
There may be a few small bumps
Days 6-7
Less peeling
Glowing skin will be appearing!
What Is The Pre and Post Treatment Care Like?
Pre Peel Care
7-14 Days Before: -STOP using all topicals (AHA, salicylic acid, etc)
Retin-A -STOP using for 7-10 days
72 Hours Before: -DO NOT exfoliate, this may affect the peel results
48 Hours Before: -No heavy moisturizers or hydrating masks, this may affect the amount of peeling
Post Peel Care
DO NOT wash skin for 24 hours
DO NOT overheat the skin for 72 hours -It is important that the internal body temperature is not overheated or causes the body to sweat. -ex. sauna, working out/exercise, hot showers
DO NOT exfoliate for at least 7 days post-peeling
DO NOT pick or peel -This may cause PIH-post inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Protect the skin -Wear SPF -Apply appropriate moisturizer -Stay out of the sun
What Are Contraindications For The Green Sea Peel?
Accutane use within the past year
Herpes Simplex (cold sores or fever blisters)
Extensive sun or tanning 3 days prior and 3 days post treatment
Sun burn
Accutane in the past 6 months to 1 year
Topical retinol products in the past 2 weeks
Waxing of area to be treated in the past 7-10 days
Any chemical peel within 14 days of the treatment
Skin must be healthy and intact
Dermatitis
Scleroderma
Psoriasis
Eczema
Skin cancer
Hepatitis
Dermatillomania (skin picking/peeling)
Recent surgery/surgeries in the area to be treated
Impaired healing, such as diabetes, unless previously approved by a doctor
Iodine allergy and/or shellfish allergy (out of an abundance of caution-this treatment uses spicules from marine sponges)
Photos used in this article are courtesy of esthisupply.com and the supplier