Chemical peels are a popular treatment amongst skincare fans. The way which a peel works is by applying a solution to the skin surface, this is usually an AHA, such as mandelic acid. The acid will work at removing the layer of dead skin cells and promoting the growth of fresh, new cells to reach the top layer. Apart from a revived complexion, you’ll also find other concerns, such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles as well as acne and breakouts, are all visibly improved.
There are three types of peels available and come in a variety of strengths, superficial, medium, and deep. The first two are quite common and are performed in a salon or spa environments by a fully trained practitioner. As for the deeper peels, these require a lot more thought and consideration, as well as visiting a more clinic like establishment to have this treatment. Here are the benefits of each peel in a little more detail.
Superficial Peels
- These solutions are applied to the skin and left for a couple of minutes.
- Contain lower percentage of chemical exfoliants compared to other peels with strong acids.
- They remove the outer surface of the skin also known as the epidermis.
- Can often make the skin feel tight and uncomfortable, so ensuring you team them. with hydrating ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid will counteract this problem.
- These peels can be performed at home and need to become a regular treatment to maintain the results.
Medium Peels
- This solution is applied to the skin and left for a few minutes.
- You will need to visit a salon or spa to have this treatment and you should avoid using medium peels at home.
- Will remove the top and middle layer of the skin and rid the skin of impurity build-up.
- You’ll experience itching, stinging, and burning during and after the treatment.
- This treatment should not be used on a regular basis compared to superficial peels.
- Will increase the skin’s photosensitivity to sun exposure so ensuring you use daily SPF to fully protect against free radical damage and UV light.
- Will need to have this treatment every 6 to 12 months depending on how your skin reacts to the peel and how quickly the effects wear off.
Deep Peels
- Solution is applied to the skin and left for 30 minutes, and sometimes longer.
- Targets the deeper layer of the skin and will require some local anaesthetic to numb any pain.
- The skin will be left feeling uncomfortable with peeling patches of skin and redness.
- Longer recovery time is needed after having a deep peel, usually lasting about 2 weeks.
- Has long lasting results that won’t require you to repeat the treatment.
- Will have skin lightening results so is thought unsuitable for those with darker skin to use.
- I hope that this explains things a little better and gives you a good understanding of how peels work. I’ll now briefly explain what mandelic acid is and its benefits, so if you already have a handle on all thing’s skincare, you can skip this next part.
What is Mandelic Acid?
- Derived from bitter almonds and is a member of the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family.
- Known for being one of the gentlest chemical acids.
- Sloughs away the build-up of dead skin cells, bacteria, debris, and other impurities.
- Helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.
- Combats areas of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, sun damage, and post acne marks. Inhibits the overproduction of melanin resulting in an even skin tone.
- Is gentle enough to be used on skin prone to redness and rosacea.
- Mandelic acid is often used in superficial peels, especially in over-the-counter formulas.
- Provides the skin with exfoliation that requires the least amount of downtime.
If you wanted to know more about mandelic acid and how it works on the skin, check out the dedicated blog post over on The Skin School.
How often can you do mandelic acid peel?
Ideally you can use a mandelic acid peel in a 2-week interval. You will also find that because mandelic acid is so gentle you are able to use it as a peel throughout the entire year, even during the summer months which is often considered best to avoid because of increased skin sensitivity to UV exposure.
The main benefits you can expect to see when using mandelic acid peel are.
- Improved appearance of signs of ageing, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. After a few uses you’ll find the complexion is noticeably firmer, plumper, and has a youthful bounce.
- Any signs of uneven skin tone are improved and areas of hyperpigmentation and melasma are lighter.
- Helps to target flare-up in redness and rosacea.
- Requires a minimal amount of downtime compared to other chemical peel.
- Targets oiliness and problems with breakouts and acne.
- Can be used by all skin types, including those prone to sensitivity. However, it’s advisable to seek the help from a dermatologist to find the best formulation for you and your skin.
- Known for being a “summertime” peel meaning you can get this treatment all year round. Remembering of course, to apply a daily SPF of 50 to complete sun protection.
As I have already mentioned, if you are prone to sensitivity or have temperamental skin, consult with a medical professional. Another precaution you can take is to perform a patch test for 24 hours before applying the product to your face. This is effective if you are new to the product and the active ingredients in the formulation.
Can you use mandelic acid every day?
Yes, you can, but ensure you are using a low percentage formulation as too much stimulation will lead to severe dryness, irritation, and increased photosensitivity. To avoid too much imbalance, I would suggest applying a hydrating ingredient, such as hyaluronic acid to restore moisture and bypass any increased dryness and irritation. If you wanted to find out more about how often you can use mandelic acid, check out our dedicated blog post where we answer your questions about the active.
There you have it, a little more information about mandelic acid and how often you can use a peel. Don’t forget, you can come and find us on Instagram where several our skincare experts are ready to help you with your skincare needs.
