Salicylic Peel: Stories

NOTE: I am not recommending that you try this at home.

I have had mild (glycolic) to mid-level (salicylic) peels done professionally and now I do them myself at home. The result I was looking for was clearer, smoother skin.

SALICYLIC: BioMedic MicroPeel Plus stimulates cell turnover through the application of salicylic acid. Skin begins to slough in 3-5 days and completes the rejuvenation process in 7 days. The result is enhanced skin texture and radiance. For maximum results a series of six procedures in 2-6 week intervals is recommended.

Last year I did a series of 4 (every 3 months) Biomedic Micropeel Plus (30% Salicylic Acid Peel). I worked my way up with both peels Micropeel from 10% to 30%. The peel burn felt slightly uncomfortable but not unbearable. My skin looked gorgeous after 10 days.

LHA: The BioMedic LHA Peel™ (Lipo-Hydroxy-Acid)procedure consists of 4 peel sessions spaced 15 days apart, combined with a pro-peeling complementary care program to use at home during the 15 days preceding the 1st peel session and in between each session to optimise tolerance and effectiveness.

This year I did a series of 6 (every 2 weeks) BioMedic LHA Peel™ (Lipo-Hydroxy-Acid). I worked my way up from 5% to 10%. Peel started in 3 days and skin was back to normal at about 7 days. My skin looked average 10 days after relative to the results I got from the Micropeel. LHA burned WAY more than the Micropeel for about an hour after application. The peel burn felt extremely uncomfortable so that my eyes watered. I put cold icepacks on my face until the burning subsided. On a scale of 1-10 it was about an 7. Peel started in 3 days and skin was back to normal at about 7 days.

SUMMARY: I thought that because the LHA was more aggressive it would give a better result. For me, the Micropeel Plus did a much nicer job in smoothing and refreshing the skin with an even tone and especially to get rid of blackheads and bumps under the skin. I do this every 3-4 months now to keep my skin clear and to prevent breakouts. I wouldn't say either was very effective in reducing sun spots or scarring, however the Micropeel did make my skin luminous.