Pamela Hill Institute

An AHA chemical peel is an alpha hydroxy acid peel, which involves the application of an alpha hydroxyl acid solution to the skin to remove outer layers. This brings to the surface a smoother and more evenly pigmented layer of skin. AHA peels will be light, surface peels.  The application is quick and simple and is usually performed in the office of a doctor or aesthetician.  Since it is a light peel, no anesthesia is needed.  The patient will experience only a  slight sting when the solution is applied to the skin.  The treatment itself will take from ten to fifteen minutes. Prior to the procedure the skin will need to be cleansed, then the solution applied and after the appropriate time, removed.

The Beneficial Effects of An AHA Chemical Peel

The beneficial effects of an AHA  chemical peel is that it can restore a more youthful appearance to skin that due to age or sun damage has become wrinkled, unevenly pigmented or blotchy skin. An AHA peel cannot reverse the aging process nor can it  completely remove deep scars. However, the procedure itself has become very popular for the benefits that it does provide.  

Also Called Lunch Hour Peels

Light AHA peels are also known as “lunch hour” peels since, as the mildest of all of the chemical peels, they only remove the outer layers of skin, smoothing out fine wrinkles and rough or dry skin.  They can be done very quickly, hence the “lunch hour” name.  AHA chemical peels can also improve the texture of skin damaged by the sun and can balance out skin pigmentation, and even diminish some types of scaring from acne.  

Who Are The Best Candidates

The best candidates for AHA chemical peels are those people who are in good physical shape, are psychologically healthy and stable, don’t smoke, understand the procedure fully and want to look younger and refreshed.  Those who are unhappy with aspects of their appearance that include wrinkles and brown spots, have been informed about skin tone that is appropriate for the type of peel, are not now taking Accutane and have not taken it for at least the last 18 months, have no active skin infections which includes most types of acne, and have realistic expectations.  A candidate must also be free from large and unusual scar formations such as keloids, and be willing to accept the limitations involved in the healing process.  Many people however have had positive results form AHA chemical peels, and the aesthetician should be knowledgeable of the process.