Lactic acid peels are a form of AHA, or alpha hydroxy acid peels. AHA is a natural fruit acid that is used to help fight the signs of aging and treat acne scarring. Lactic acid peels are available through your dermatologist and at your local beauty supply store as kits for home use. Over-the-counter peels contain a lower concentration of AHA and are deemed safe to use without medical supervision. Following instructions carefully will help you to avoid burns, irritation and other skin complications.
Step 1
Apply a pretreatment cream to your face for 2 weeks prior to your peel. Creams containing alpha hydroxy acids prepare the skin for your peel and help even out skin tone, improving postpeel results, according to DermNet NZ.
Step 2
Cleanse your face thoroughly to remove dirt, makeup and bacteria. Using a gentle facial cleanser, wash every inch of the treatment area, suggests DermNet NZ. Dry your skin with a clean towel, blotting the moisture from your face. Do not rub your skin dry as this can cause irritation.
Step 3
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the skin around your eyes, mouth and nostrils using a cotton swab. This will prevent the chemical peel from damaging delicate skin within these facial areas.
Step 4
Apply lactic acid solution with a clean cotton swab, starting with the facial perimeter and working your way inward, suggests SkinBlends.com. Using a timer set at 30 seconds will help you keep track of how long application takes so that the time can be factored in to chemical set time.
Step 5
Allow the lactic acid agent to remain on your skin for 5 to 10 minutes for chemical strengths that are up to 30 percent. Higher chemical strengths are only available through a dermatologist. Observe any skin reactions you may have during your treatment, such as extreme reddening, pain or discomfort. According to SkinBlends.com, burning can occur if lactic acid is left on your skin for longer than the suggested time.
Step 6
Apply neutralizer with a clean cotton swab to your face to eliminate tingling and neutralize the lactic acid. Immediately cleanse the skin with tepid water and a clean cloth to remove the lactic acid. Your skin may be slightly pink and somewhat swollen, according to DermNet NZ. This will subside within 48 hours of your treatment.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep your skin moisturized with a light moisturizer and a small spray bottle filled with cool water.
Things You'll Need
- Pretreatment cream
- Mild facial cleanser
- Towel
- Cotton swabs
- Petroleum jelly
- Lactic acid agent
- Neutralizer
- Tepid water
- Washcloth
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