WHAT IS LACTIC ACID?

Lactic Acid is said to be less harsh and more moisturizing than Glycolic Acid skin peels. Lactic is one of the Alpha Hydroxy acids (fruit acids). Fruit acids are nontoxic, naturally occurring substances, and are found in a variety of fruits, such as grapes, apples and sugar cane. 

Lactic acid is a mild AHA acid that is often derived from milk so people with an intolerance to milk or dairy products should not use this acid.  A much weaker acid than glycolic acid, as an acid peel lactic acid is most commonly used for the removal of sun spots, hyperpigmentation, liver spots and other skin discolorations and is suitable for all skin types.  A lactic acid peel is also recommended for the reduction of Rosacea as it is the mildest of peels.

Lactic Acid is a thorough exfoliator, removing the outer layers of thickened or damaged skin, leaving a smoother and healthier appearance. With prolonged use, Lactic Acid has been found to be beneficial in improving dry skin, treating age spots, improving oily and acne prone skin, and decreasing fine lines and wrinkles.

 

HOW TO DETERMINE THE CORRECT PEEL STRENGTH:

20%  Extra Mild Peel for sensitive or fair skin and 1st time users. You will see slow results
40% Medium Peel for someone that has had a peel before, doesn't have sensitive skin, use for minor skin flaws
60%  Strong peel for experienced users that have acne, deeper scars, serious skin flaws

80% Maximum strength for experienced or professionals only.

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If you have never had a chemical peel before, or if you have sensitive skin, it is recommended that first time users start with a 20% Lactic Acid solution and leave on the skin for only 1-2 minutes. Test a tiny, small portion of your cheek to get an idea of how well your skin will tolerate this percentage of Lactic Acid. Strengths above 30% should not be applied to the face. The 60% and 80% level of Lactic Acid Chemical Peel is recommended for treatment on the body only, and by people who have used this product previously on the body, and know that their skin can tolerate this level of strength. 80% is recommended for use on hands and feet, or similar areas or for diluting to a milder strength.

 

HOW IT WORKS

Lactic acid works on the epidermis, the upper layer of the skin. The normal shedding of the layer becomes regular. When applied to the skin, the acid lifts and removes dead cells, it dissolves the glue-like substance that holds these dead skin cells and debris to the skin to reveal skin underneath that is smoother, fresher, and healthier looking. Eventually, this layer becomes more uniform after a peel resulting in a smoother feel, look, and texture of the skin. As it works into the deeper layers of the epidermis, the appearance of the skin is improved. Increased blood flow through the skin produces a smooth, clear, younger looking appearance.

Since it works only the top layer of the skin, the epidermis, it is not a deep peel. However, it does cause the elastic fibers in the dermis layer of the skin to be stimulated and produce new collagen.
Some of the skin conditions that can be improved with a lactic peel are: sun-damaged skin, wrinkles that are not too deep, mild acne scars, age spots and brown spots. It is the mildest of all the peels and can also be used for hyperpigmentation and on skin that is prone to dry patches and eczema. If you have sensitive skin it is best to start with a 10% solution which can be used every 5-7 days.