Salicylic peel (BHA chemical peel)

The Salicylic peel is a professional skin care treatment that can diminish acne,... more

The Salicylic peel is a professional skin care treatment that can diminish acne, smooth sun-damaged skin, and lighten age spots. Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is a good peeling agent for blemish-prone skin with blackheads. One type of Salicylic peel that is often used to treat acne and hyperpigmentation is the Jessner's peel.

Acid peels remove the top layer of your skin, revealing smoother, brighter skin.  This process can trigger new skin cell production. Salicylic peels are quick, often called "lunchtime peels" because skin treatments take under 20 minutes. Still, Salicylic peels must be repeated monthly. 

Your dermatologist may prefer salicylic acid over traditional alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peels because they are less irritating and deeper penetrating.

According to Clarian Health, a marketer and distributor of the Salicylic peel, "Despite BHA's "deeper" penetration, you won't see significant results the first time around. It takes four to eight monthly sessions for best results, and at $75 to $125 per peel, it's pricey, and its effects may last only 6 months to a year. But some women feel that a somewhat smoother, brighter complexion is worth the investment."