Lately, you’ve probably heard quite a lot of buzz about alpha hydroxyl acid. It’s being used in all kinds of skincare products – from anti wrinkle creams to in-office dermatological treatments. But what is it?

Well, they are a family of organic carboxylic compounds. They usually come from natural sources, such as sugar cane, milk, and apples. However, they can also be synthetically created, too. Alpha hydroxyl acids work by penetrating the skin and producing what we call an exfoliating effect – also known as a skin peel.

Should I Go With Professional Strength?
The intensity of the exfoliation depends on the strength. Over the counter products often use 5 to 10% concentrations. Meanwhile, in-office treatments you can get a dermatologists and some plastic surgeon offices may use up to a 70% concentration. Many people automatically assume “stronger is better” but with this that is not necessarily the case.

Ever notice that “plastic” look you see on some older women that have had a lot of work done? I’m not talking about their surgeries, but rather the waxy appearance of their skin. Getting those powerful peels, such as 70% glycolic acid peels at doctors offices, can result in your skin having that waxy appearance… permanently! I think we can all agree that is NOT what we want to look like. So if you choose to use those in-office alpha hydroxyl acid treatments, please be cautious and keep this in mind.

Best Facial Peels?
I’m not a medical professional, so I can’t tell you what you should or shouldn’t use (ask your doctor) but I will mention some opinions on the matter. I believe there is a happy medium when it comes to strength. You don’t want the cheap ones you get at the drugstore because those are too weak to do anything. But you don’t want the super powerful ones either that will make you look like you belong in a wax museum or give you a chemical burn.

Personally, this is why I choose to use an at home glycolic peel that is still on the low side for concentration, but isn’t so low that it doesn’t do anything. The great part is that at home facial peels are usually extremely affordable!