Jessner Peel

If you’ve been doing chemical peels or you’re just starting to research, you’ve no doubt come across the Jessner chemical peel. The Jessner peel contains a combination of chemical peel acids, so it works well on many skin care issues. It will cause peeling for several days, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Use a Jessner Peel?

Those with active acne may benefit the most from this peel because it contains salicylic acid, which is known to break down oils and the plugs that create to clog pores—it’s a workhorse on the outer layer of skin. Using a jessner peel is a great acne treatment to help eliminate current and future acne; it will also help deminish acne scars with repeated uses.

Those with moderate wrinkles may not benefit as much since it works on the outer layer on skin rather than helping to build up the underlying structure. Those with moderate wrinkles and sun damage should consider TCA chemical peels for best results.

What’s in a Jessner Peel?

The Jessner peel is a combination of three chemical peel acids that work well together as an acne treatment. The Jessner Peel contains resorcinol (also known as phenol acid), salicylic acid, and lactic acid.
· Resorcinol helps break down the hard plugs that clog pores and cause acne.
· Salicylic acid works by softening the protein that forms part of the outer skin structure, known as keratin. Salicylic acid helps to loosen dead skin cells, and allows other products to penetrate more effectively, so your current acne treatment will work even better after a Jessner's Peel;
· Lactic Acid is a hydroxy acid that also works as a natural humectant, so it will help skin retain moisture. Lactic acid is also a natural skin constituent, so it helps protect the acid mantle and is more bio-compatible with skin; lactic acid will balance the stripping effects of the salicylic acid.

How should I apply a Jessner Peel?

I have not done a Jessner Peel, so I am providing this information without personal experience. If you’ve never done a Jessner Peel, I suggest you consult a professional. It’s a great learning opportunity, and you can ask lots of questions while you’re there.

From the various sources I have read, the process is as follows:

1. The Jessner peel is usually applied at night because the solution stays on overnight, but read the kit instructions carefully and make sure understand the specifics. Get all the supplies required: cleanser, timer, peel solution, cotton pads, neutralizer, running water, soft dry towel, face fan, vitamin-a cream or pads—if required;
2. Cleanse the face with a glycolic cleanser or other (typically provided with kit);
3. Apply the jessner peel and set the timer;
4. I’ve read different methods for the step, so make sure you know what your kit requires. Some kits do NOT have you neutralize or wash the solution away. If they do, follow step 5; if not, skip to step 6;
5. When the timer sounds, if the kit calls for a neutralizer, apply it then; if it calls for cool water, splash with copious amounts;
6. Apply the vitamin-a cream or towelettes as instructed;
7. Many of the Jessner peel instructions indicate that you will leave the solution and any secondary creams or solutions on overnight, washing the next morning; and
8. Remember to apply sunscreen.