AHA is a Popular Choice for Chemical Peels: Understand Why…

AHA chemical peels, or alpha hydroxyl acids, are quite popular. They consist of several acids that are commonly found in such common items as fruit, sugar, sour milk and other products that are processed through bio fermentation. The cosmetics industry has used AHA's for decades, and in fact they can be traced back to ancient Egypt and Greece. Typically prescribed by dermatologists, many of our common skin care products also contain them.

Types of Alpha Hydroxy Acids And Their Origins

Types of AHAs used in chemical peels are Glycolic acid which comes from sugar canes, lactic acid which comes from milk, malic acid which comes from apples and pears,  citric acid which comes from  oranges, lemons and other citrus frits, and  tartaric acid which comes from grapes  The most popular of these is  glycolic acid and it  can be combined with other AHAs in chemical peel formulations.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids As An Exfoliating Agent

Alpha hydroxy acids are exfoliants. They cause the cells of the skin, the epidermis, to become "unglued" and to degrade the lipids that hold the outer layer of dead skin cells to fall off which makes room for the  re-growth of younger looking, better appearing new skin. AHA's also stimulate the production of both collagen and elastin provider greater strength and protecting  skin cells. The result is that  skin becomes smooth in appearance and texture.

AHA's Are The Mildest of the Chemical Peel Formulas

AHA's are the mildest of the chemical peel formulas and produce light peels. These peels provide smoother and brighter looking skin. The process is quick and popular with many people who simply can’t find the time in their schedules needed for recovery from deeper chemical peels. Good candidates for AHA chemical peels are those who have superficial wrinkles on their  face, neck, upper chest or arms. Also those who have problems with uneven pigmentation, those with enlarged facial pores, with liver spots or age spots, and those who have superficial acne scarring.

Side Effects of Alpha Hydroxy Acid Peels

AHA peel side effects do sometimes occur but are fortunately minimal.  They include irritation and sun sensitivity.  Symptoms include redness, burning, pain, itching, and possibly some scarring. Within a few days, however, these side effects subside. Those with darker colored skin are at a slightly higher scarring risk than those who are light complected.  Also AHA peels can increase sun sensitivity by up to 50%, which leads to recommendations to avoid sun exposure as much as possible.