How Often Should You Use Lactic Acid Peels?
By now, especially if you’ve been dealing with these topics for a while, you’re already well aware of what lactic acid is and how great it is for your skin. Today’s blog post focuses on the question of how often you should use lactic acid peels. Don’t let the name scare you, peels are a quick and effective way to get beautiful skin, but you’ll need to take some time to make sure you find the right formula and feel confident using it.
What is Lactic Acid?
Found naturally in sour dairy products like milk, its derivatives are used to make lactic acid in skincare products.
Effectively fights signs of aging and smooths fine lines and wrinkles.
Removes dead skin cells, dirt, bacteria, debris, and other impurities that accumulate on the outer surface of the skin.
Targets areas of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and sun damage by preventing overproduction of melanin, making those areas more pigmented.
Boosts the production of collagen and elastin in the skin for a hydrated, plump complexion.
Lactic acid acts as a humectant, which means it draws moisture into the skin and locks in the protective skin barrier.
It is known as the gentlest acid and is suitable for all skin types, even mildly sensitive skin.
It helps rejuvenate the skin and reveal new skin cells for a brighter, more vibrant complexion.
How do chemical peels work?
Chemical peels use a peeling acid, such as lactic acid, on freshly cleansed skin. A thin layer is applied to the surface of the skin to remove the top layer of the epidermis. Dead skin cells, excess sebum, dirt, and bacteria can accumulate in the surface layer and, if not removed, can cause breakouts and spots, making the complexion appear dull. In some cases, chemical peels can penetrate deeper into the dermis layer of the skin to help open up pores and prevent the appearance of blackheads or acne.
The difference with lactic acid is that it is a milder alpha hydroxy acid and can be used by almost all skin types. Its benefits lie in its ability to fight hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and age spots, revealing a healthy, radiant layer of skin cells. You will also find that lactic acid has unique properties as a humectant, which means it attracts moisture and holds it in place. Not only does this keep your skin soft and hydrated, it also ensures that the lipid barrier is working properly and protects the skin from free radicals and other environmental influences.
If you want to learn more about lactic acid itself and its effects on the skin, read our dedicated blog post.
How often can I do a lactic acid peel?
Lactic acid peels are best done every few weeks. However, the acid content will affect whether you should use it more frequently. You’ll find that a 30% lactic acid concentrate is a good place to start when incorporating peels into your daily routine.
Before we go on, don’t be alarmed if the word “peel” sends a chill down your spine, as this doesn’t mean the skin is literally peeling off your face. Instead, you’ll find that the acid works on the underlying layers, clearing bacteria, dead skin cells, and other impurities from the skin. The “peeling” will look more like a fresh layer of skin coming to the surface. Please note that exfoliation can increase your risk of sun damage, so using sunscreen every day is an important step to protect your skin.
How often should lactic acid be used?
This depends largely on the formulation and strength of the lactic acid used. Weaker concentrates are often found in cleansers and face washes, both of which rinse off the skin and are gentle enough to be used daily, some even twice a day. These formulas are preferred by those with dry, sensitive skin, as they rarely cause much irritation.
For stronger formulas, like serums, it may need to be slowly incorporated into your routine, especially if you have sensitive skin. I also recommend using it only at night if the acid is at a higher concentration, as this avoids the risk of further damage to the skin from sun exposure.
Many people find that combining this acid with other ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide is an easy and effective task with few side effects. For stronger active ingredients, like retinol and salicylic acid, alternating each ingredient is recommended, as this gives the skin and pH levels enough time to rebalance in preparation for the next treatment.
If you’re unsure how your skin reacts to certain ingredients, a 24-hour patch test can help you determine if it’s okay to apply it to your face while avoiding side effects.
Can lactic acid peels be used daily?
As I mentioned earlier, lactic acid is one of the gentlest acids for the skin. But that doesn’t mean it won’t cause irritation or dry out the skin. You may also find that overusing exfoliating formulas (especially ones as potent as exfoliants) can strip the skin’s protective barrier of the right amount of water and oil, leaving it vulnerable to further damage.
Therefore, it’s important to make sure you use your product as directed on the packaging. If you’re concerned about using certain acids, I recommend consulting your doctor or dermatologist to make sure you’re using the best acid for you and your needs.
Here are some more tips on how often to use lactic acid peels. Don’t forget to visit our Instagram for more help and to stay up to date on our latest product launches, exclusive discounts, and skincare tips.
