Peels & Homecare ™ 
(peels, microdermabrasion and cosmetic laser)
Introduction to Your BioStrat ReSurfacing Plan
Normally, when the skin is young and healthy, cells continuously reproduce and shed to create a new outer layer approximately every 4 to 6 weeks. However, this epidermal renewal process (cell turnover cycle) can slows down with age. The once cycle could take up to 11 weeks instead of 4. Fortunately, modern technology has contributed greatly to the regulation of the cellular renewal process and the removal of excessive aged corneocytes (dead cells) that could otherwise obstruct pores, emphasize wrinkles and possibly restrict respiration if allowed to remain. For the next three months, we invite you to participate in the BioStrat Skin ReSurfacing Plan™ which is currently being offered at select spas and clinics that specialized in result-oriented aesthetic treatments.
Untouched Photo: The left hand received a two
minute application of the BioStrat Rapid Exfol 20%™ while the right hand remained untreated. Note the increased brightness and reduced erythema (redness).
Preparing your Skin for Microdermabrasion, Peels or Laser
The BioStrat Skin ReSurfacing Kit™ contains the products that you need to prepare and acclimatize for an improved overall outcome. After all, if you're paying to receive such services, you might as well get the best 'bang for your buck.' As well, it's important to note that the benefits associated with advanced resurfacing treatments are generally short lived without effective home care maintenance.
The products in this kit are an essential part of a skin resurfacing maintenance plan because they are specifically formulated to support the process and enhance the results.
While the Exfol Gel gently exfoliates to promote continuous cellular turnover and collagen production, the other items uniquely formulated to minimize possible irritation, to replenish hydration and moisture as the dead, dry cells slough off and to support the skin's renewal process while also offering protection from environmental damage.
The Skin ReSurfacing Starter Kit™ formulas are meant to be used 1 to 2 weeks before your 1st treatment and applied daily thereafter or between visits to:
 prepare your skin for advanced resurfacing
 brighten & enhance elasticity & firmness
 hydrate & replenish moisture
 deter UV damage
 promote clear, clean looking skin
 help restore pH after treatments
 soothe and soften
 aide skin renewal
 improve the overall outcome
 limit potential irritation and flaking associated with some advanced resurfacing procedures
 While participating in the BioStrat Skin ReSurfacing Plan your specialist may also recommend additional enhancers. For example, you may experience perceive your skin as dry in the initial stages as shedding dead cells become replaced by younger ones. Temporary flaking or dryness is often releived by applying more Post Mist and by other BioStrat products that replace or prevent skin moisture loss. Also, when starting to resurface, if your skin is prone to 'breakouts', it is not unusual to experience a few minor blemishes as trapped follicular pore debris begins to exit from your skin. Sebum (oil) may also surface more freely as pimples lessen. While participating in the BioStrat ReSurfacing Plan™, it is best to avoid makeup that claims to have a drying action on the skin. If coverage is desired, seek non-comedogenic water-based foundations or powders. See the MY Skin page for a list of known agents.
The Importance of Starting Out Right
Whether receiving professional services or not, you begin with the BioStrat Skin ReSurfacing Starter Kit™. The Prep Wash™ exists for a reason. Soaps and milk cleansers usually leave behind residues that may hinder the performance of other products. They might also contain ingredients that spur unnecessary reactions. Designed to start the resurfacing process and to acclimatize your skin to glycolic, our introductory Exfol Gel 5%™ resurfacing formula quickly promotes younger, healthier looking skin when used as directed. Dead cells lack moisture. As they shed, your toner is replaced with The Post Mist™ which hydrates, controls flaking, and leaves the skin feeling fresh, toned, and vibrant. While waiting for younger, resilient cells to emerge - UV protection is a must. The Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion™ is guards against environmental damage while also promoting new healthy tissue growth. The intended outcome of all of this is to establish a thicker, healthier epidermis because healthy skin has a much better chance at combating aging signs and even common acne - regardless of age. If your skin leans towards dry, oily or acne prone, the BioStrat Skin ReSurfacing Starter Kit™ is your starting point. As you progress, other Formulas are available for addressing additional concerns, from body acne or sun-damaged neck and bust lines, to rough textured hands and legs or calloused feet.
BioStrat AHA Peels, Microdermabrasion & Cosmetic Laser
While Laser works by emitting intense beams of light energy, Microdermabrasion involves rotating salts or beads which are intended to exfoliate by mean of abrasion. Because the action is mechanical, Microdermabrasion is deemed a mechanical peel. Another exfoliating peel classification is chemical. Chemical peels consist of higher concentrations of one or more active ingredients, usually found in an aqueous liquid or gel base. Unlike Microdermabrasion which exfoliates by mechanical abrasion, the BioStrat Peels™ are nonabrasive and feature a pharma-grade glycolic for communicating with the deeper layers of the skin. Due to their flowing nature, they can remove surface waste (dead calls) and also seep into the pores to help lift away trapped debris. While providing many of the same anti-aging benefits as other resurfacing methods, they also contain a UPS Pharma-Grade Glycolic that offers other benefits. For example, Glycolic is deemed to posses anti-inflammatory properties, thus, aides in the diminishment of redness and swelling. Because of its small molecular structure, it is regarded as the fastest working AHA's. When offered in a BioStrat Peel series, skin redness and flushing is extremely RARE. Especially when the skin has first become acclimatized to lower Glycolic concentration found in the Exfol Gels.
Although some clinics combine the BioStrat Peels™ with Microdermabrasion and Cosmetic Laser, it is wise to start out slowly, until your skin has become 'acclimatized' to the home care and only one type of resurfacing method. Regardless of which method you select, the BioStrat Skin Care is designed support these procedures.
Performed by result-oriented aestheticians and professionals, the BioStrat Peels are administered 2 weeks apart in a series of 6 to 12 annually. If considering a peel series, it is best to first prepare and 'acclimatize' your skin with the BioStrat Skin ReSurfacing Starter Kit™ one to two weeks before receiving your first resurfacing treatment. Depending on your skin type and concerns, your specialist may also recommend other BioStrat Formulas.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use the BioStrat Skincare without having Peels?
You bet! Simply go to the Product page to learn more about this.
Who's likely to receive peels?
Men, Women and Teens (with parental consent) seeking:
 younger, healthier looking skin
 to control over acne
 diminished fine lines and wrinkles
 diminished responsive hyperpigmentations
 improved tone and firmness
 improved textured
 improved radiance
 improved resiliency
How often should I receive a Peel?
The BioStrat Peels™ are normally administered in a series of 6 to 12 treatments given 2 apart until the series is complete. Because againg is a natural ongoing process, many receive one series every year.
Can I return to work after a Peel?
Alpha Hydroxy Peels rarely interrupt a person's social schedule when they contain glycolic since this acid is known to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Reddening of the skin is extremely rare although, occasionally after the second or third peel, some may experience temporary flaking which is often relieved by applying additional moisture to the skin in the daytime and at night.
Will I feel any discomfort?
At first, you may feel some minor tingling sensation. The within minutes and is often relieved by applying the Post Mist™.
Any Special Tips or Instructions?
While participating in a resurfacing program, it is best to refrain from using other products that may conflict with the plan.
For minor flaking, ensure that you are applying the Exfol Gel 5%™ very SPARINGLY every second day (the size of a dime is all you need). Avoid using face clothes or anything that might abrade your skin, especially when cleansing or drying it. Apply the Post Mist™ several times each day for additional hydration, along with more daily moisturizer than what you would normally apply until the flaking stage subsides. The BioBorage™ or the BioErase™ evening renewal cream are also designed to replenish moisture and prevent additional water loss through evaporation. Some people also add a few drops of either the Hemp GLA Complex or the RMS Scar & Wrinkle Complex to their night creams when targeting other needs. For persistent or unusual flaking, which is extremely uncommon, consult with your specialist.
How do I Start?
Attend a consultation with your specialist and begin using the formulations in BioStrat Skin ReSurfacing Starter Kit™ one to two weeks before your first Peel, Cosmetic Laser or Microdermabrasion procedure. At this time, your specialist may also recommend a BioStrat Night Cream and/or Complex, although some allow time for response observations before selecting the appropriate night cream. After your initial consultation, which normally involves completing a Personal History Profile followed by a question and answer session. When receiving the BioStrat Peels, schedule your appointments at two week intervals (2 wks apart). Example:
Peels
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Date
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Home Care
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Consultation
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Jul 15
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begin using BioStrat Skin ReSurfacing Starter Kit™
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1st Resurfacing Treatment
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Aug 1
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continue use with BioStrat Skin ReSurfacing Starter Kit™
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2nd Treatment
Resurfacing
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Aug 15
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begin using the appropriate night cream
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3rd Resurfacing Treatment
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Sep 1
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continue on with your new home care maintenance program
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4th Resurfacing Treatment
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Sep 15
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for specific concerns, add the BioStrat Complex™ (optional)
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5th Resurfacing
Treatment
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Oct 1
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continue on with your new home care maintenance program
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6th Resurfacing
Treatment
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Oct 15
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continue on with your new home care maintenance program
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select other supportive items as your skin dictates:
BioBorage Cream™
Hemp GLA Complex™
RMS Scar & Wrinkle Complex™
LYCD Stress Recovery™
BioLight Supreme Fading Gel™
BioErase Evening Renewal Cream™
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Home Care (pre & post peel care recommendations)
For best results, begin using the formulations in the Starter Kit 1 - 2 weeks before your first peel. Add other supportive BioStrat products to your skincare regime as your skin dictates. You may need to apply more moisturizer than usual in the first few weeks to alleviate skin flaking. Please refer to the 'My Skin ' page of this site for more details.
 When cleansing, use tepid water - not hot water.
 Refrain from devices, treatments or actions that might additionally exfoliate or irritation the skin (i.e. cleansing scrubs, face cloths, waxing).
 The skin requires both water and lipid replenishment. Moisturizers come in many forms. Some are in the form of humectants that attract moisture to the skin i.e. Post Mist™; others serve as barrier protectants that aid in the prevention of moisture loss through water evaporation (i.e. Daytime moisturizers, night creams and oils). Apply less or additional moisture as your skin dictates.
 Avoid sun damage. Always wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with a min. SPF 15 daily - on cloudy days, and, even if your makeup contains sunscreen.
 Avoid layering different AHA products on the skin.
 Avoid applying acidic resurfacing products to open lesions or sensitive areas such as cuts, abrasions and mucus membranes.
 Refrain from rubbing or picking your skin.
 Refrain from using products that might conflict with the BioStrat Skincare and Peels.
 Inform your specialist of any topical or oral medications that you are currently taking, or of any conditions that you have that might impede the outcome.
 Comply with product directions and your licensed specialist's recommendations.
 When receiving subsequent peels, book appointments approximately two weeks apart.
 Wait 2 days after a peel before applying resurfacing skincare products that contain AHA's.
 Contact your specialist if you have any questions or concerns.
Non-Resurfacing Skincare Plans
Although the skin resurfacing plan benefits almost everyone, other non-resurfacing formulations and systems are available to Men, Women and Teens seeking effective skincare. Choose from any of the BioStrat formulations other than the Exfol Gel 5%™ or the Exfol Gel 10%™.
Recommendations by Skin Type & Concern
Everyone's skin is unique, thus, the provided guidelines here are general. As the skin responds to certain products and treatments, or begins to normalize, your skin care needs may change, hence, your specialist may provide other recommendations. For product recommendations by skin type, please see the MY Skin page.
Glycolic Acid
The BioStrat Peels™ along with the Exfol Gel 5% ™ and the Exfol Gel 10% ™ feature one of the most widely studied ingredients in skincare to date - glycolic acid (AHA). In comparison to other mainstream alpha hydroxy acids, glycolic has an extremely small molecular structure that supports fast penetration for quicker visible results.
Like certain foods, glycolic is available in different grades, concentrations and pH levels. Overall, it is these three factors that determine its effectiveness. Studies show that glycolic preparations are more result oriented when formulated in hydrogel (water-based) solutions as oppose to in cream or lotion forms; and, when lower concentrations are constantly used in accordance to the manufacturers' directions.
Furthermore, glycolic acid is available to select manufacturers in several strengths i.e.70% and 99.9%, and in different grades (technical or cosmetic verses pharmaceutical grade). In the late 80's and the early 90's, the majority of studies that brought glycolic acid to the forefront largely involved the type that originated from the 99.9% pharmaceutical-grade raw material source. Most of these studies featured hydrogel solutions that contained free, or partially-free acids. In order to preserve the natural and beneficial properties of the acid, these prototypes contained few if any buffering agents and are now commonly referred to as 'unbuffered' or 'partially-buffered' or 'low pH' solutions. Likewise, due their effectiveness, such preparations are generally respected amongst 'those in the know' as scientific data exits to support the validity claims. Since then, many companies have entered into the market, with some producing 'buffered' cream versions that tout the same benefits as the previously studied hydrogel prototypes that were deemed entirely different formulations! This is not to say that such products are useless as buffered products have their place - especially when less activity is required, but it is important to keep in mind that glycolic acid retains more of its natural properties, hence, effectiveness when remains acidic.
Adding to the confusion, many products contain glycolic that has been extracted from a 70% as oppose to the 99.9%. This can be confusing because a 10% taken from a 70% indicates a 7% whereas a 10% extracted from a 99.9% more accurately depicts a 10%. Moreover, a 10% of a 70% can be marketed as a 10% because it is a 10% of a 70%. As a result, formulations featuring partially-free acids cannot be compared fairly against buffered version claiming the same percentages, thus, it is prudent to look beyond the percentage debate when seeking product effectiveness because one company may be trying to sell you a 10% that really only may act as a 5%.
Aside from its 'ReSurfacing' action, glycolic is also a propelling agent that aids the delivery of certain other ingredients in skincare products when appropriately combined with other agents that make up the cosmetic matrix of the given formula. Respectively, not all glycolic formulations are alike since this ingredient's effectiveness is largely dependent upon whether or not it has been allowed to retain its natural acidic properties. Unknown to many, buffering agents that increase the glycolic's pH can actually reduce its effectiveness. Meanwhile, glycolic formulations featuring free-acids with exceptionally low pH readings (usually below a pH of 2) are not recommended for daily use but are more frequently used by professionals who perform advanced cosmetic treatments.
As you can see, finding an effective midpoint range between the 'free' and 'buffered' versions requires a certain degree of knowledge on behalf of the formulator. With all factors considered and in support of safe effective delivery, the BioStrat ReSurfacing formulations feature hydrogel (water-soluble) pharma-grade glycolics that range in strengths for different needs and skin types. Moreover, because these gels are hypoallergenic, they appeal to those wishing to avoid perfumes and dyes.
For some people, it is not unusual to feel a slight tingling or stinging sensation when first becoming acclimatized to glycolic as tolerance levels vary however; this sensation often disappears within several minutes after application. Although certain chemicals can be added to reduce these sensations or to improve the scent of a product, they may also increase a person's sensitivity, therefore, the BioStrat Exfol Gels™ are free of these additives.
Furthermore, they are considered highly effective because they contain the 'more purified' 99.9% USP pharmaceutical grade glycolic over the 70% or the technical grade. Suiting a wider number of skin types, the Exfol Gel 5%™ is the recommended starting formulation for most people while the Exfol Gel 10%™ is an upgrade strength for skin that has already become 'acclimated' to the Exfol Gel 5%™.
What makes BioStrat Special?
Healthy cells make up healthy tissues. Healthy tissues make up healthy organs. The skin is the largest organ in the body. Therefore, it makes sense to maintain this hard working organ.
Preparing and maintaining your skin at home generally improves how your skin functions, along with the overall outcome of the services received from spas and clinics. In this fast pased world where individual lifestyles vary greatly, we have developed an incredible, simple-to-use, system that encourages healthy, balanced skin for all skin types. This is definitely revolutionary because until we came along, most companies geared their programs to the different skin types. For decades, this was the norm: however, there have been numerous advances and studies in the area of skin care ingredients. As a result, we take pride in selecting ingredients with broad-spectrum qualities as they perform more than one function. For example: Glycolic acid is shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, assist with in the reduction of redness, and also free up blocked pores. Respectively, it is shown to address aging signs normally associated with dry, mature, sun-damaged skin but also benefits oily-acne prone skin.
Availability & Standard of Service
Independent professionals usually perform a variety of different services at their place of business. Since each establishment or person performing the services described herein operates independently from BioStrat Canada Inc., procedure protocols and standards may differ from place to place and person to person. If seeking a referral, you may contact our head office at 1-800-969-1100.
Spa Therapies
BioStrat Canada Inc. offers professionals and their customers a variety of services, from body treatments to facials and skin resurfacing manicures and pedicures to pre and post care after Botox injections, waxing, electrolysis and cosmetic laser. Some examples include:
Facials
 BioTone Facial ™
 BioFade Facial ™
 BioRose Facial ™
 BioHemp Facial ™
 BioExpress Facial ™
 BioPore Deep Cleanse ™
Body Wraps
The BioWraps™ are relaxing and designed to reveal younger looking skin on the body while targeting individual concerns, from obstructed follicles to cellulite, scar tissue and dry skin:
 Exfol Wrap™
 BioHemp Wrap™
 BioHip Wrap™
Manicures
The BioStrat Manicure™ removes dull, lifeless cells from the hands and elbows to reveal softer, glowing skin with improved colouration. Performed monthly and/or used in conjunction with the Exfol Body Lotions, they also target dry cuticles or hangnails. A must before photographing wedding rings!
Pedicures
The BioStrat Pedicure™ alleviates callus and fissuring on the feet while smoothing away dull, lifeless cells from the ankles, legs and knees without scrubbing or the immediate need of a shower. Performed monthly or biweekly, this service inspires soft, attractive looking feet. Wonderful before a tropical vacation!
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