Alpha Hydroxyacid (AHA) Peels

Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) chemical peels are a versatile treatment option for a variety of skin concerns, including pigmentation issues, melasma, acne, blackheads, enlarged pores, and oily or congested skin. AHA peel treatments are tailored to your specific skin type and needs to enhance your complexion and texture.

What Benefits Can AHA Chemical Peels Offer?

AHA peels, which include glycolic, lactic and mandelic acids, provide multiple benefits:

Sun Damage and Sunspots: Effective for treating sun-induced damage, including sunspots and solar keratosis.
Fine Wrinkles and Pigmentation: Helps reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation issues such as blemishes.
Melasma and Pigmentation: Aids in diminishing pigmentation, including melasma.
Enlarged Pores: Can reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.
Acne Scarring: Improves the look of superficial acne scars.
Skin Hydration: Enhances the skin’s natural hydration.

How Do AHA Peels Function?

AHA peels work primarily as exfoliants. These peels target the epidermis, the skin’s outermost layer. The AHA family includes several types:

Glycolic Acid: The smallest molecule, providing deeper penetration and is often used in higher concentrations (50-70%) to stimulate collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production.
Lactic Acid: Known for its hydrating properties, it boosts the skin’s natural moisturizing factor.
Mandelic Acids: Offer varying benefits based on their molecular size and penetration depth, with mandelic acid being less aggressive due to its larger molecule size.

These peels increase skin cell turnover, improving dullness and pigmentation.

What is the Recovery Time for AHA Peels?

AHA peels are commonly referred to as "lunchtime peels" because recovery is typically swift. You might experience mild redness, particularly with higher concentrations of glycolic acid. Prior to the treatment, guidance will be provided on what to expect and how to manage any temporary effects.

AHA vs. BHA Peels: What’s the Difference?

AHA Peels: Require a step-up regimen and neutralization, and are ideal for addressing sun damage, aging, wrinkles, and pigmentation as part of a comprehensive skincare routine.
BHA Peels: More lipophilic (oil-loving), making them suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. BHA peels are effective for treating blackheads and congestion and do not require neutralization.

Which AHA Peel is Best for Sensitive Skin?

For sensitive skin, mandelic acid is recommended over glycolic acid due to its larger molecular size, which results in slower penetration and reduces irritation. Mandelic acid is helpful to reduce skin redness, improve general skin tone, texture and appearance of pore size. For very sensitive skin types, resurfacing and toning lasers may be a better option, as they often provide better tolerance and reduce inflammation.