What To Use Lactic Acid With
Natural lactic acid has several potential applications. Because of its useful properties, it is commonly combined with other compounds. It has multiple cosmetic and skincare applications, including the face, body, and hair. As an alpha hydroxyl acid, lactic acid (AHA). It’s found naturally in grapes, watermelons, and other fruits, and it’s produced industrially from milk and other dairy products. Cosmetics often include lactic acid because it dissolves dead skin cells, aiding in the exfoliation process. This method often reveals skin that seems years younger than it actually is.
Regular use on the face or body can help diminish the look of wrinkles and other signs of aging.
Due to its low pH level (3.4), lactic acid is chemically stable when exposed to air or sunshine, and it is also utilized in products for sensitive skin because it does not irritate the lips or eyes as much as other acids might.
If you want to get a velvety consistency, lactic acid is your best bet. Beer made with lactic acid can be made, but it’s pricey and has an unpleasant sour flavor. Because of this, several brewers are now dabbling with post-brewing lactic acid additions to their beers (post-fermentation).Read on to learn more on can i use lactic acid with niacinamide/how to use lactic acid the ordinary.
What To Use Lactic Acid With
ntion. The components make all the difference, and there are many good ones to pick from, like retinol, vitamin C, and peptides. However, lactic acid is a relatively new competitor for shelf space.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like lactic acid, glycolic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, mandelic acid, and malic acid are used to gently exfoliate the skin.
However, despite its increasing prevalence, lactic acid has been around for quite some time and has a fascinating backstory. The director of dermatologic surgery at UT Dell Medical School and Ascension Seton in Austin, S. Tyler Hollmig, M.D., claims that the active element was first discovered from sour milk and that Cleopatra may have used it by bathing in milk to take advantage of its therapeutic characteristics on the skin.
These days, it’s possible to find lactic acid in a number of vegan-friendly, often synthetic, and simpler-to-formulate forms. Lactic acid is less harsh (due to its slightly larger molecule size) than its ultra-potent cousin, glycolic acid, while providing equal benefits, thus it may be better for those with easily irritated skin, according to Dr. Hollmig. Intrigued? Learn more about the benefits of lactic acid for your skin by reading on!
What does lactic acid do for your skin?
It works wonderfully as an exfoliant.
Dr. Hollmig explained that lactic acid works by gently exfoliating the skin’s outer layer. Research demonstrates that sloughing off the dull, dead cells reveals a brighter, smoother complexion underneath.
It might help clear up acne.
By removing dead skin cells and oil buildup through exfoliation, blemishes like pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads can be avoided.
Wrinkles and other signs of aging may be less noticeable.
Exfoliation aid is often welcome, but especially for aging skin. Every two to three weeks, healthy outer skin cells naturally shed. Dr. Hollmig warns that this process might slow with age, dryness, and other environmental stressors, resulting in skin that is “rough, scaly, and lifeless.”
Lactic acid not only increases glow, but also fullness. Dr. Hollmig claims that applying a 5% lactic acid mixture twice day can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles because it increases skin thickness and firmness. He warns that, especially for those with sensitive skin, stronger treatments may increase the risk of irritation (redness, itching, or peeling). This older but frequently referenced study revealed that a higher dosage of 12% resulted in even more evident benefits.
The product can smooth down rough skin.
Lactic acid is commonly used in lotions for the entire body, not just the face. In particular, it is used to treat keratosis pilaris, sometimes known as “chicken bumps,” which can show up on the upper body. The skin condition isn’t dangerous, although it can be annoying. According to Dr. Hollmig, these bumps can be treated with lactic acid, but only if the lotion is applied consistently over a lengthy period of time.
Is there a risk of harm while using lactic acid to the skin?
In comparison to other alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), lactic acid is milder and more moisturizing. Dr. Hollmig believes that’s why it can be okay to use even if you have sensitive skin. However, if you experience redness and irritation, you may want to try a product with a lower concentration of lactic acid or even skip it altogether.
Note that whether you use lactic acid in the morning or at night, your skin will be more susceptible to the sun and you should always use sunscreen before going outside.
Dr. Hollmig thinks lactic acid is safe to use throughout pregnancy. Popular anti-aging ingredients, such as retinoids, should be avoided during pregnancy, so lactic acid is a good alternative to try instead.
What you need to know about using lactic acid on your face It’s best to ease into using acids and gradually increase the amount used, as directed. If you’re not sure how your skin will react, start with a lower concentration product (about 5%) and work up to using it every other day.
Do a patch test on the inside of your elbow or under your chin before using a lactic acid product to determine if you have any kind of reaction. If you encounter severe irritation, stop using the product and see a dermatologist.
Look for the Wonder Product:
Numerous cosmetics, such as the following, contain lactic acid to treat skin issues:
Face washes containing lactic acid are ideal for acne-prone skin because they allow you to receive the advantages of the chemical without exposing your skin to it for too long, which can cause irritation. Don’t get anything in your eyes!
The potential dryness caused by lactic acid can be avoided by using a cream or lotion that also contains hydrating substances like ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
Serums are applied to the skin and are known to provide a more concentrated dose of active chemicals. You should apply them at night, after washing your face but before applying moisturizer.
When it comes to masks, the dosage of lactic acid and other powerful substances may be higher because they are meant to provide a quick blast of exfoliation. Use a mask like this once a week or as needed, according to specialists.
In order to prevent your skin from becoming very dry, you should not use a lactic acid product alongside another product that contains AHAs, BHAs, or retinol at the same time, unless the product is particularly created with several acids (like the ones described above).
Remember to apply sunscreen every morning, especially if you used a lactic acid treatment the night before. This can help prevent sun damage to the fresh, healthy skin that has just emerged.
Can I Use Lactic Acid With Niacinamide
between and include. Combining Niacinamide and Lactic Acid, which can be irritating to those with sensitive skin, rosacea, or eczema, can be dangerous.
Some of the best skincare products on the market include lactic acid and niacinamide, but can they be used together? Keep reading to learn more about the functions of these components and if they are compatible with one another.
How do you define lactic acid?
To reduce the appearance of fine lines, age spots, and hyperpigmentation, try using a product with lactic acid. Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid found naturally in milk (AHAs). Although Lactic Acid may cause some peeling on your skin, it is still classified as a mild alpha hydroxy acid. Brightening and evening out the skin’s tone are two benefits that may result from using this substance.
You can improve the look of your skin’s tone and texture as well as the size of your pores by using lactic acid. If your skin is really delicate or injured, you probably shouldn’t use lactic acid. Rosacea and eczema sufferers should likewise exercise caution. While Lactic Acid can improve skin’s texture, it is too harsh for those with more delicate skin.
Niacinamide: a definition.
Niacinamide, a B-3 vitamin, has numerous benefits for the skin. Niacinamide’s key benefit is its ability to reduce the visibility of scars and other skin imperfections.
Some additional bonuses of using niacinamide into your skincare routine are as follows:
Keeping discolouration and inflammation at bay
Keeping Oil Production in Check
Protecting the skin against sun damage
Improving the look of wrinkles and fine lines
Although serums are where you’re most likely to find niacinamide, you can also look for it in other products.
Niacinamide may be gentler, but people with sensitive or blemish-prone skin should start with a low dose and build up gradually.
I was wondering if it was okay to take niacinamide with lactic acid.
It is possible to combine Niacinamide and Lactic Acid, but you should start with extremely tiny doses of each.
Combining Niacinamide and Lactic Acid, which can be irritating to those with sensitive skin, rosacea, or eczema, can be dangerous. In addition, these substances may be too harsh for skin that is already prone to dryness or damage due to acne or other skin conditions.
urban skin rx® offers lactic acid product samples for those interested.
A handful of the items we sell that feature Lactic Acid are listed below. Simply type “Lactic Acid” into the search bar to find additional items that contain this ingredient.
The Alpha Hydroxy Acids in LacticGlow Micropolish Resurface Brighten Cleanser (including Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, and Malic Acid) and Jojoba Beads work together to wash and polish the skin without irritating it, resulting in a more radiant and youthful appearance.
You can feel comfortable using this moisturizing and brightening treatment twice day to combat the visible effects of rough texture and blemishes. Use this cleanser twice a day to brighten your complexion, exfoliate dead skin, and stimulate your skin’s natural renewal process.
This brightening cream from HydraBalance is both lightweight and hydrating. This moisturizer will give you that dewy, youthful look you’ve been looking for thanks to its mix of the deeply hydrating ingredient Hyaluronic Acid and the brightening peptide combination Oligopeptide-68. Improves the look of aged skin and reduces the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.
Niacinamide-containing goods
We also have you covered if niacinamide is of interest. Some of our favorite sources of Niacinamide are listed below.
Improve the results of your regular routine with the help of Witch Hazel Brightening pH Balancing Toner. This concoction lightens dark spots and evens out the skin tone, all while balancing the skin’s pH. Studies have shown that other skincare products penetrate better into the skin when applied after a toner.
The Acne and Blemish Control Mask is a very effective therapy that removes acne scars, stops new breakouts from occurring, and reduces the appearance of any scarring that has already occurred. Acne-causing excess oil can be removed by sulfur, while niacinamide can improve the appearance of sensitive skin. Blackheads are gone and your pores look smaller thanks to Salicylic Acid.
Products with Niacinamide and Lactic Acid
Intent on putting Niacinamide and Lactic Acid to the test? Our suggestions are as follows:
When applied on dark spots, wrinkles, and sun damage, Even Tone Super Glow Serum is the secret to revealing your fantastic shine.
L-Ascorbic Acid, often known as Vitamin C, is a potent antioxidant that brings out your skin’s natural glow, fights hyperpigmentation, protects against free radical damage, and makes your skin look younger and more vibrant.
Fixing Brown Spots Quickly Therapy with Retinol Hyperpigmentation, post-acne patches, fine lines, and wrinkles can all be diminished with the help of this product, which contains potent doses of Retinol, Kojic Acid, and Niacinamide. Excellent for diminishing the look of pores and sun damage, this lotion also helps fade dark spots.
You can use our search box to seek up ingredients or your skin problem specifically to locate additional products containing these elements. Feel free to contact us if you’re interested in learning more about our selection of anti-redness, anti-hyperpigmentation, anti-acne, and anti-dark-spot skincare products. We are eager to be of assistance.
seeking counsel?
We’ve got you covered if you’re still having trouble figuring out which products will best suit your needs. We can also assist you if you already have a lineup but need guidance in selecting products to address a particular skin concern.
We suggest starting with our skin quiz. Take this short survey about your skin so we can better determine which products will work best for you. In addition, if you take our skin quiz, we’ll discount your purchase by 20%!
We have a skin quiz and online consultations available! Professional Skin Care Specialists and Licensed Aestheticians are standing by to help you. Don’t hesitate to schedule a visit with me right now.
In addition to our skin survey and online consultations, you can reach us by chat, phone, or email! We understand that it can be challenging and time-consuming to decide on a skincare routine and select the appropriate products. To that end, we’re happy to provide a hand at any point and do whatever we can to smooth the journey.
Your plan now is to have a chemical peel. In order to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for a chemical peel, it is recommended that you first schedule a consultation. Chemical peels should be avoided if you are breastfeeding, currently pregnant, or planning to get pregnant. We recommend that patients not utilize any autoimmune therapy or products for 2 days before treatment. You should consult your doctor about halting the use of any autoimmune therapies or products for two days. It is also crucial that you tell your doctor or skincare professional about any sensitivities you may have to medications or ingredients.
Avoid using tanning beds for two weeks leading up to your chemical peel. The risks of skin cancer and premature aging caused by tanning bed use are so great that we strongly suggest you avoid them. Stay out of the sun as much as possible in the week leading up to your chemical peel.
Avoid getting a face wax within 7 days of treatment.
If you’re using Renova, Differin, Tazorac, Avage, EpiDuo, or Ziana for acne, you need to stop using them five days before your treatment.
If you use Retin-A (retinol) creams or applications, you should cease using them 7-10 days before getting a chemical peel. Five days before to treatment, you should refrain from using high-percentage alpha hydroxy (AHA) and beta hydroxy (BHA) products.
Avoid the gym for 24 hours before getting a chemical peel, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater) every day.
For 7-10 days prior to your chemical peel, you should avoid taking any aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Advil.
After a Chemical Extraction
It is normal for your skin to go through a transition period after undergoing a chemical peel. If you want the best results from your chemical peel, you need to follow the aftercare guidelines just as strictly as the ones you did before.
Depending on the chemical peel, the amount of layers, and the depth of the chemical peel, you may have mild to significant shedding on day 3 post-peel. Skin dryness and tightness may occur. Even with a superficial peel, it is usual to experience flaking and peeling three days after treatment. Due to the short recovery time of superficial peels, you may not experience any shedding.
Your skin may break out in little whiteheads, but be assured that THIS IS NOT AN OUTBREAK.
Lighter-skinned people are more likely to have post-peel redness.
The peeling skin should not be peeled or picked at. The skin needs to shed on its own accord. Hyperpigmentation is caused by picking at the flaking skin.
Please use the post-procedure kit provided by the doctor or skincare professional for 3–5 days, or until flaking has stopped, to alleviate the discomfort associated with the peel.
Do not use cold compresses or water to the treated areas. Makeup should be avoided on the day of treatment to allow the skin to settle and recover.
Alcohol, exercise, steam rooms, saunas, hot shower spray, swimming, and even pointing a hair drier towards the treated region should all be avoided for the first 48 hours following a chemical peel. Hyperpigmentation can be brought on by internal warmth.
As a general rule of thumb, you should also try to stay out of the sun and away from really high temperatures. Just as you did before your peel, keep applying a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Use a barrier-forming moisturizer to maintain healthy skin moisture levels. To minimize the appearance of flaking, apply it twice daily, or more often as needed.
You shouldn’t have electrolysis, wax your face, or use depilatories for five days after getting a chemical peel.
Retinols and glycolic acids should be avoided for 10 days after a peel.
For 7-10 days, refrain from mechanical exfoliation of your face with scrubs, loofahs, exfoliating sponges, etc.
Avoid tanning beds for two weeks after surgery.
Acne medication like tretinoin, Retin-A, Differin, Renova, Tazorac, Avage, EpiDuo, or Ziana shouldn’t be used for 5 days after surgery. However, a vitamin C serum can be used again five days after treatment.
You should wait to get another chemical peel until your doctor tells you to.
Redness, hyperpigmentation, or crusting of the skin are all signs that it’s time to see a dermatologist or skincare expert.
You may now confidently face peel season with the knowledge you gained here on what to expect before, during, and after a chemical peel.
Chemical peels for acne
Although it would be nice to look in the mirror and have it tell me that I’m the fairest one of all, certain insecurities of mine—ahem, acne scars—beg to differ. That being said, I know there’s nothing wrong with acne scars, in fact, women have been embracing these so-called “flaws” rather than feeling ashamed by them.
Still, for those of you who are interested, or maybe just a little bit curious, I’ve done the research and checked in with top skincare professionals on all there is to know about how to treat acne scars. While there are preventative measures we can take to keep acne scars from forming—like washing our faces daily, controlling oil buildup in our pores, and not picking at blemishes once they appear—the most effective tool for diminishing and even vanishing acne scars from skin’s surface may be a chemical peel.
It’s gentle on the skin but tough on scars. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about using chemical peels to treat acne scars.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
In a chemical peel, acids with exfoliating capabilities are applied to the skin, typically the face, for cosmetic purposes. To reveal younger, smoother, and clearer skin, the chemical solution dissolves dead skin cells, oil, and debris. 1
Chemical peels are a powerful form of chemical exfoliation, which removes dead skin and pore-clogging pollutants on contact, as explained by New York City plastic surgeon Melissa Doft, MD.
They, as described by Doft, “cause a controlled injury to surface skin cells.” It’s not as bad as it sounds, especially if you keep in mind that these wounds are on the cellular level (similar to microneedling). 2 Doft warns that peeling solutions can cause skin damage depending on how harsh they are. When skin is damaged, it peels off and is replaced by fresh skin cells. More time will be needed for recovery from deeper injuries caused by stronger peels. Since new cells are replacing the old ones, the skin should appear more even and radiant.
A Chemical Peel’s Many Rewards
Consider the various advantages of a chemical peel before deciding whether or not to get one, as described by Jennifer MacGregor, a board-certified dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology in New York City.
Enhances coloration
Improves the texture of the skin
Reduces redness and oil production
It lessens acne
Facilitates the absorption and performance of additional skin care products
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If you ask us, that’s not bad at all. Additionally, she says, “If you use a peeling agent regularly for four to six weeks or more (or opt for a stronger peel), you can also smooth texture by building new and healthier collagen and elastin and even boost skin’s own internal hyaluronic acid, which gives it that plump, luminous quality.”
According to MacGregor, “the improvement in comedonal acne” (acne characterized by clogged pores and oily skin) is “substantial,” and “shallow-depth boxcar scars can have a moderate improvement in texture over time” after undergoing a series of peels. More aggressive peeling can greatly reduce acne scars, she says, but it has fallen out of favor since its recovery profile is less appealing than that of laser and energy devices (the latter having a better ratio of improvement to downtime). Spot treatments, also known as the cross approach, involve the application of a stronger peeling chemical directly to the core of deeper scars.
Get Ready for Your Chemical Peel
If you already have a skincare program, make sure to follow it up with the peel.
MacGregor warns that using irritating new and active cosmeceuticals before a peel might lead to increased irritation, a longer healing time, and an uneven peel.
She says that if you use retinoids regularly, you should tell your doctor about it but otherwise keep using them up to the day of your peel. Although retinoids thicken the epidermis, some argue that they should be avoided because they are peeling agents that thin out the outer dead cell layer, making a peel more effective. Users of retinoids really have a thicker epidermal (skin’s outermost layer) of healthy cells. Avoid starting any additional retinoids in the weeks leading up to your peel, and never go in for a professional peel without first disclosing your use and strength of retinoids to the technician.
Finally, “Don’t wax right before a peel. Peel pads and solutions used at home should be used very gently at first, and then increased in frequency. MacGregor suggests conducting preliminary tests on a small area whenever a new product is being used.
A Chemical Peel: What to Expect
MacGregor notes, “[Expectations vary so significantly based on the treatment and formulation]” since there is more than one kind of chemical peel. You will, however, have your skin thoroughly cleansed before your peel, as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. Because of the need for general anesthesia, deep peels can only be done in a surgical setting. Your dermatologist will administer the peel evenly and swiftly, and then remove it carefully, whenever you’re ready. 4
How quickly you notice results is highly variable and will be affected by several factors, including the type of peel used, the frequency of its application, and your unique skin type. In general, I recommend having a peel every four to six weeks for maximum results,” says celebrity esthetician Shani Darden, who has clients including Jessica Alba and Emmy Rossum.
At-Home vs. In-Clinic
Darden uses chemical peels in her studio, using safe-for-skin acids like glycolic, salicylic, and lactic. Doft lauds the powers of a chemical peel for reducing acne scars and acne in the first place. “Both at-home and in-clinic chemical peels can be helpful in treating acne,” she says.
“The peels that are used in a doctor’s office are stronger than those available at home. When applied, they remove the top layer of skin, unclogging pores and improving skin texture by increasing skin turnover. They are also helpful in removing hyperpigmentation and darkening caused by acne flares.” In her office, she uses the VI Peel for acne-prone and aging skin. “It is a medium-strength peel that is excellent for hyperpigmentation and superficial acne scars.”
How To Use Lactic Acid The Ordinary
A small layer should be applied once a day, preferably at night, after using toners and before applying moisturizer. We suggest starting with three times per week and working up to everyday use if you have never used an acid previously.
Both of the lactic acid serums sold by The Ordinary (see my full review here) are relatively inexpensive considering the noticeable results they produce.
There are two lactic acid serums available from The Ordinary, one with a 5% concentration and another with a 10% concentration. You may be wondering how to utilize lactic acid serums from The Ordinary given that exfoliating acids can be unpleasant to the skin.
Here, we’ll go over the best ways to incorporate The Ordinary’s lactic acid serums into your current skincare routine.
If you make a purchase after clicking on one of my post’s affiliate links, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more details, please refer to my disclaimer.
Define Lactic Acid, Please.
Lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) found naturally in sour milk and synthesized for skincare products, functions as a chemical exfoliator to sweep away dead skin cells on the skin’s surface.
It lightens dull skin, lightens dark spots, and evens out skin tone and texture.
It also helps to diminish the sight of fine lines and wrinkles on the skin.
If you’re looking for a chemical exfoliator that gets the job done without being too harsh or irritating, lactic acid is a terrific option.
Due to its larger molecular size, lactic acid is less likely to cause skin irritation, tingling, and redness than a more potent AHA such as glycolic acid.
Lactic Acid Is Wonderful for Almost All Skin
Because it is effective on a wide range of skin types, lactic acid has become a staple in the skincare industry. Wrinkles and other signs of aging are less noticeable.
When applied to oily or acne-prone skin, lactic acid can help unclog pores and minimize the appearance of acne lesions.
Those with dry skin may benefit from using lactic acid as a moderate exfoliation because of its hydrating effects.
It might also be mild enough for persons with sensitive skin, depending on the concentration.
The Levels of Lactic Acid
There are a range of concentrations at which lactic acid is useful.
Both 5% and 12% lactic acid were applied to research participants twice daily for three months.
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The firmness and thickness of the dermis were also enhanced by the 12% lactic acid concentration, in addition to the epidermis, and fine lines and wrinkles were diminished.
Since the dermis lies beneath the epidermis, the study found that a higher concentration of lactic acid (12%) was more effective at penetrating the skin than a lower concentration (5%) was.
Skincare Routines That Include the Usage of Everyday Lactic Acid
You should avoid using lactic acid serums if your skin is sensitive, peeling, or otherwise damaged.
You shouldn’t use these serums if your skin is sensitive, easily irritated, or damaged.
Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before going outside is recommended while using lactic acid (and any other alpha-hydroxy acid) and for the following week.
Before your skin can handle the full strength of a lactic acid serum, you may want to dilute it with another skincare treatment.
Add a little water or The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum to dilute them.
How Often To Use Lactic Acid in Your Skincare Routine
First choose a lactic acid concentration: The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA or The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA.
If you are new to acids, start out using The Ordinary lactic acid serum once a week. See how your skin responds and slowly increase usage as your skin builds a tolerance.
While you can use the lactic acid serum daily, most can get good results using lactic acid 2 or 3 times a week. Try to use it in the evening if possible.
The Ordinary recommends patch testing before using their lactic acid serums and any new product. For additional details on patch testing, please see their patch testing guide.
When To Use The Ordinary Lactic Acid Serums in Your Skincare Routine
After cleansing and toning, but before applying any other serums or moisturizers, you should apply a water-based lactic acid serum like this.
Related: How to Create an Everyday Skincare Routine
What to Avoid While Blending with the Routine Serum Lactic Acid
You shouldn’t use lactic acid alongside other direct acids like salicylic acid or azelaic acid, other AHAs like glycolic acid or mandelic acid, or other actives like benzoyl peroxide on your acne because of the risk of sensitization.
Strong actives, such as pure vitamin C, should also be avoided when utilizing lactic acid (ascorbic acid). The optimal pH for ascorbic acid’s activity is 3.5 or below.
Lactic acid serums from The Ordinary have a pH range of 3.6-2.8.
Although the pH of lactic acid is close enough that it shouldn’t affect the efficacy of ascorbic acid, using both at once can cause skin redness, stinging, peeling, and irritation.
Ascorbic acid is best used first thing in the morning, while lactic acid is best used later in the day, or on different days.
Retinol and other retinoids stimulate cell renewal and facilitate the exfoliation of dead skin.
Since lactic acid also helps sweep away dead skin cells, using both at once can be too much and lead to irritation and redness.
Retinol has a higher pH than lactic acid, therefore combining the two could neutralize their effects.
Darden suggests treating uneven tone and texture, fine lines and wrinkles, and enlarged pores at home using Dr. Dennis Gross Peel Pads, which include a blend of acidic chemicals to promote cell turnover and diminish the appearance of these issues.
Alpha-Hydrating Peel Pads, $11.00, by Skinbetter®
Despite MacGregor’s claim that “No at-home peel treatments will work for acne scars,” she does suggest using “Skinbetter Alpharet peel pads once or twice weekly for blackheads, pigment, smooth texture, and radiance.”
Pads, 20% Glycolic Acid, Topix Glycolix Elite, 60-Count, $32.00
These peel pads, available in several strengths, are a favorite of MacGregor’s as well. By gently exfoliating and hydrating, they claim to treat skin issues like enlarged pores, acne, blackheads, and whiteheads.
(Editor’s note: Retinol is recommended for minimizing acne scars when you are not preparing for or recovering from a chemical peel.
5
For Darden, “I highly recommend Retinol Reform for minimizing the appearance of acne scars and preventing the formation of new scars. It promotes cell renewal, which in turn lessens wrinkles, scars, and acne.” Because of its delicate yet effective composition, this retinol is a favorite of the Byrdie editors.
The Downside
If you experience mild irritation or actual peeling, there’s no need to freak out. If you believe Doft, “The acid compositions in different peels allow them to enter the skin in different ways. The night after a superficial peel, you may feel a little dry. The skin will peel and blister two to three days after a medium-strength peel has been applied. You may experience dry, tight skin at this period. Aquaphor Healing Ointment ($5) or another similar product should be used to keep the face moist.” Once you get past these phases, you’ll see the final product take shape. MacGregor chimes in, “Medication can prevent an eruption if you are prone to cold sores.” Just check with your medical professional.
Aftercare
The new skin cells that have formed after a peel may be more easily damaged by the sun. MacGregor states, “Generally speaking, [aftercare] depends on the peel type, strength, and formulation, but the common theme for most is: Sun protect the area with a hat or other physical cover and good zinc, titanium-based sunscreen—the sunscreen in your makeup is not sufficient—also, do not apply retinol or retinoids of any kind benzoyl peroxide (the number of days you skip depends on the peel strength and how sensitive your skin is).”
After a peel, she suggests waiting at least 48 hours before washing your face “with a mild cream or milky cleanser rather than a product with foaming action. Avoid using loofah mitts or harsh paste cleansers, as well as any products that contain abrasives or physical scrubbing methods. Use a mild cleanser, physical sunscreen, and a neutral, hydrating moisturizer like Skinmedica TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream ($72) or Cerave Moisturizing Cream ($15) instead. The next day, you may be able to use modest active topicals, but you should test them on your damaged or laser-treated skin first. Some products in this category are the Skinceuticals CE Ferulic ($169) and the Skinbetter Alto Defense Serum ($160).”
According to MacGregor, “Intense peeling may call for ointments till the outer layer of cells rebounds (epithelialization),” which is part of a different set of post-care instructions. Remember, talking to a doctor is your best bet.
In Concluding
At-home treatments may not have the same effect as professional chemical peels in reducing the appearance of acne scars, but they are still beneficial for all skin types. Consult your doctor when determining whether chemical peel is right for you, as their recommendations may differ depending on the severity of your scars.