Chemical peels can be used for various skin conditions. They are an alternative to laser treatments for those patients who are not ready for laser or have minor skin problems and desire a refreshed look. Chemical peels vary in strength and composition. Stronger chemical peels, made of a specific composition of acids reach deeper under the surface layer of skin for an effective skin resurfacing. These chemical peels are indicated for acne scars, sun-damaged skin, wrinkles, and a dull complexion. They should always be applied by a physician, and may result in slight redness, or flaking of the skin.

Glycolic (70% strength) and lactic acid peels are very popular in our medical spa. They are indicated for mild skin imperfections, pigmentations, acne, dry and sun-damaged skin and melasma. They work on the cement that keeps old skin cells glued together on the surface of the skin, permitting their gentle sloughing off in order to reveal the fresh looking skin underneath. With these peels the skin looks great right after without any flaking or downtime.

Lactic acid peels are very natural and made of fermented sugar or sour milk. It is a natural product derived from milk. It is composed of alpha hydroxyl acids, so it works on dead skin cells by loosening up the cement that keeps dead cells “glued” together on the surface of the skin. Lactic acid is similar to glycolic acid in its composition but it is milder on the skin, making it the perfect product for sensitive skin.

Lactic acid peels are great for helping to fade hyperpigmentation and melasma. They work well with oily or dry skin and are great for mature complexion. Although home products are available, the best results are always obtained in a medical setting as doctors are allowed to use peels with a higher lactic acid concentration which makes them more effective and safer under a doctor’s supervision.

At the Aurora DeJuliis MD European Medical Spa in Montclair, NJ, we use lactic acid peels with a concentration about 50%. Depending on the clients’ skin needs a series of 6-10 treatments are necessary to achieve the best results. At our medical spa, lactic or glycolic peels are painless and are performed along with a soothing facial mask. They are downtime free and do not leave the skin irritated or flaking.