Glycolic/Lactic Acid (AHA) Peels (20-30%)
Glycolic acid is an Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) which naturally occurs in sugar cane, it has the smallest molecular size of all the AHA's allowing it to better penetrate the skin. Lactic Acid is derived from milk and whilst it is excellent at resurfacing the skin it also increases skin's moisture levels. It is applied to the skin in various strengths ranging from 20-30% for varying time frames depending on the desired result and skins response. It loosens the thickened surface layers that appear as dry, rough, scaly skin and stimulates the production of collagen in the deeper layers. As the uppermost layers are sloughed away, a smoother textured and healthier skin is revealed. Glycolic peels are used to treat mild sun damage, pigmentation and loss of elasticity.
What can AHA Peels treat?
- Improves photo ageing (premature ageing caused from the sun)
- Speeds up cell turn over
- Helps stimulate collagen and elastin production
- Improvement in Dyschromia including Melasma, Solar Lentigines (sun spots), freckles, actinic keratoses and seborrheic keratoses (moles)
- Improvement in fine lines and wrinkles
- Improvement in skin tone
- Improvement in the appearance of enlarged pores
- Improvement in comedones (blackheads) and acne prone skin
Contra-indications (Reasons why AHA peels may not be suitable for you)
- Roaccutane use in the last 6 months
- Dermatitis, eczema or infection in the areas to be treated
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Abnormal wound healing – hypertrophic or keloid scarring
- Active Herpes simplex
- Recent photosensitizing treatments or medications (which can increase the risk of sunburn)
Note: Please advise if you are prone to cold sores. The use of an anti-viral medication/cream would be advised pre and post treatment.
How many sessions do I need?
4-6 peels at weekly intervals are recommended for noticeable improvements. More or less may be required depending on the condition being treated, your desired results, the strength of the peels and home skin care regimen. Once you have achieved your desired results, maintenance peels are recommended at 2-3 monthly intervals combined with a daily AHA skin care regime to retain the benefits. The ongoing skin care program uses advanced skin care products that contain a therapeutic level of AHA's at an active pH and other active ingredients.
What does it feel like?
The peel itself only takes between 10-20 minutes. You will probably experience a tingling, itchy sensation for a few minutes when the peel is applied and the stronger solutions sting a little.
After the treatment?
- Very mild redness and sensitivity (similar to a mild sunburn) lasting 12 to 24 hours
- A mild tightness to the skin
- Varying amount of mild flaking/peeling can occur for approximately 3-7 days after your treatment
- Do not pick or peel the skin prematurely
- After skin has shed it has a healthy glow, feels softer, smoother, clearer and has a more even tone.
- It is important to protect new skin from sun by using a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
- With lower strengths most people will go back to normal activities and not experience any visible peeling
Potential complications
- If the peeling skin is removed prematurely, prolonged healing and or infection is possible and may lead to a scar
- Possible herpes simplex outbreak may occur if you are prone to cold sores
- Hyperpigmentation (darker areas of pigment on the skin) lasting 1 to 12 months
- Allergic Reactions
Skin Preparation
Prior to having an AHA peel, we recommend that the skin is primed with active ingredients for at least two weeks prior to the peel. This is to maximise peel outcomes and assist in speeding the healing time post peel. This is not essential, however a skin care regime prior to and after your peel will give enhanced results.
Skin Preparation should consist of the use of cosmeceuticals containing effective levels of retinoic acid, alpha hydroxyl acids or a combination of both.