What is a Chemical Peel?
- blissbeautywellness
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
A chemical peel is a professional skin treatment that uses an acid-based solution to gently exfoliate and remove the top layers of the skin. This process encourages new cell turnover, revealing smoother, brighter, and healthier-looking skin.
The strength of a peel is determined by:
Type of acid used
Percentage (concentration) of the active ingredient
pH level of the solution (lower pH = more potent)
AHA vs. BHA Peels: What’s the Difference?
Chemical peels are categorized by the type of acid used—most commonly AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) or BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids).
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) – Water-Soluble
Best for surface exfoliation, improving brightness, and targeting fine lines.
Examples:
Lactic Acid – Derived from milk or fermented vegetables; gentle, hydrating, and ideal for sensitive skin.
Mandelic Acid – Derived from bitter almonds; larger molecule size makes it gentle while improving pigmentation and texture.
Glycolic Acid – Derived from sugarcane; smallest molecule size, penetrates deeply for powerful anti-aging and resurfacing benefits.
Concentration Range:
Light peels: 20–30%
Medium-depth peels: 30–50% (professional use only)
Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) – Oil-Soluble
Best for oily, acne-prone skin as they penetrate into pores to dissolve oil and debris.
Example:
Salicylic Acid – Derived from willow bark; antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, effective for reducing breakouts and congestion.
Concentration Range:
Light peels: 10–20%
Stronger treatments: 20–30% (professional use only)
Contraindications: When You Should Avoid a Peel
Chemical peels are not suitable if you:
Are pregnant or breastfeeding (some acids are unsafe)
Have active skin infections, open wounds, or cold sores
Have used isotretinoin (Accutane) in the last 6–12 months
Are currently using strong retinoids, AHAs, or BHAs at home without stopping prior
Have recently undergone laser, microneedling, or aggressive exfoliation
Have certain skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis) in the treatment area
How to Prepare for a Chemical Peel
Avoid active exfoliants (retinol, AHA/BHA, scrubs) for 5–7 days before treatment
Pause hair removal (waxing, threading, laser) for at least a week prior
Stay hydrated—well-moisturized skin tolerates peels better
Limit sun exposure and always wear SPF leading up to your appointment
Post-Treatment Care: Protecting Your Results
Your skin will be more sensitive after a peel—think of it as “baby skin” that needs extra care.
Aftercare Tips:
Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily (even indoors)
Avoid direct sun exposure for 1–2 weeks
Use gentle, hydrating cleansers and moisturizers
Do not pick or peel flaking skin—let it shed naturally
Avoid hot showers, saunas, and intense workouts for 48 hours
Skip exfoliating products until your provider says it’s safe
Which Peel is Right for You?
The right peel depends on your skin type, concerns, and goals:
Dull, uneven skin tone → Glycolic or Lactic Acid Peel
Hyperpigmentation or melasma → Mandelic or Lactic Acid Peel
Acne-prone, oily skin → Salicylic Acid Peel
Sensitive skin → Lactic or Mandelic Acid Peel
Peel Type | Derived From | Best For | Benefits | Typical Concentration | pH range |
Lactic Acid (AHA) | Milk / fermented vegetables | Sensitive, dry, or dehydrated skin | Hydrating, gentle exfoliation, brightening | 20–30% (light) | 3.0–4.0 |
Mandelic Acid (AHA) | Bitter almonds | Pigmentation, uneven texture, sensitive skin | Gentle, improves pigmentation, texture refinement | 20–30% (light) | 3.0–4.0 |
Glycolic Acid (AHA) | Sugarcane | Dull skin, fine lines, uneven tone | Deep exfoliation, anti-aging, brightening | 20–50% (light - medium) | 2.5–4.0 |
Salicylic Acid (BHA) | Willow Bark | Oily, acne-prone, congested skin | Unclogs pores, reduces acne & inflammation | 10–30% (light - medium) | 3.0–4.0 |
Final Note: Always have chemical peels performed by a trained professional. Not only will they choose the safest and most effective formula for your skin, but they’ll also guide you through a custom prep and aftercare plan for the best results.
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