Some of the most common superficial peels include AHA (Alpha Hydroxy acid) and BHA ( Beta Hydroxy Acid).
You may be familiar with these terms because you can buy lots of over the counter products with these acids.
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of superficial peels, check out https://www.lustertn.com/post/superficial-chemical-peels.
"Peel" is somewhat of a misnomer, because when performed at a superficial level, it is not common to have a true skin peeling effect. This is not to say you won't have any dryness, redness, or flakiness, but these peels don't do what may come to mind when you hear that word. Of course everyone's skin is different, but these acids can be used at very safe levels for a gentler exfoliating.
You can certainly purchase these products at the drug store or online, but a superficial peel performed by a licensed esthetician can not only give you better results, but an individual skincare plan including a series of these peels can be designed for your specific skin needs.
AHAs include glycolic, latic, mandelic, citric, and malic acid. These are derived from natural products such as fruit, milk, and nuts.
Glycolic acid comes from sugar cane and is the strongest of the AHA acids.
Lactic acid is made from sour milk and is the most hydrating.
Mandelic acid is is derived from almonds and is the safest for darker skin tones. It also has a unique ability to act as both water and fat soluble, which makes it great for dissolving excess sebum.
Citric acid comes from, you guessed it, citrus fruits. These are well tolerated and the gentlest.
Finally, malic acid is made from apples and is mid-range as far as strength for an AHA.
The only commonly used BHA acid for a peel is salicylic acid. This is a product made from willow bark, what aspirin is made from. It is great for acne and is fat soluble, and is well tolerated by darker skin tones.
Each acid has it's own merits, and having a superficial peel performed professionally will give you the best match for your unique needs.
In order to prep for a superficial peel, it is recommended that you receive a skin consultation and disclose all products you are currently using and any allergies or sensitivities you may have. Your esthetician can give you further advice on what products to begin using before and after a superficial peel to reap the most benefits!