Light chemical peels are also known as glycolic acid peels, AHA chemical peels, or salicylic acid chemical peels. Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that occurs naturally in sugar cane, is the most common ingredient of light chemical peels. The ingredients and formulation of a light chemical peel differ depending upon your specific skin care needs and concerns. With light chemical peels, the chemical solution is left on the skin for a relatively short amount of time.
Light chemical peels are also known as glycolic acid peels, AHA chemical peels, or salicylic acid chemical peels. Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that occurs naturally in sugar cane, is the most common ingredient of light chemical peels. The ingredients and formulation of a light chemical peel differ depending upon your specific skin care needs and concerns. With light chemical peels, the chemical solution is left on the skin for a relatively short amount of time.
Medium (TCA) chemical peels penetrate the skin more deeply than light chemical peels. A trichloroacetic acid is applied to the skin. This chemical solution, which is custom formulated for each patient, works by removing the dull, damaged outer layers of skin — those affected by acne, fine lines, sun exposure, and other factors. In the week or so after treatment, these dead layers of skin slough off, revealing a new, smooth layer of skin.
TCA chemical peels are popular because they are an excellent “spot” treatment that can be used on any area of the body. For best results, it is recommended that clients complete a series of treatments prescribed by their skin care professional.
