Glycolic vs Lactic vs Combination Peels

FOR AHA SKIN PEELS INCLUDING GLYCOLIC ACID, LACTIC ACID AND COMBINATION PEELS

• What can lactic acid help with?

  Dry/sensitive skin, hydration, exfoliation, brightening, fine lines, acne, enlarged pores, blotchy pigmentation, sun damage, keratosis pilaris, and age spots.

• What can glycolic acid help with?

  Acne, oily skin, enlarged pores, sun damage, uneven tone, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, keratosis pilaris, and age spots.

• What’s the difference between glycolic and lactic acid?

  • Glycolic acid: smaller molecules, penetrates deeper, stronger, best for oily/acne-prone skin and fine lines.

  • Lactic acid: larger molecules, gentler, hydrating, best for dry or sensitive skin, brightens and supports collagen.

• What’s the difference between glycolic, lactic, and combination peels?

  • Glycolic Acid Peels

    • Best for: Oily, acne-prone, congested skin

    • Benefits: Deep exfoliation, unclogs pores, reduces fine lines, improves texture, and fades dark spots

    • Strength: Penetrates deeper due to smaller molecules, making it more intensive

    • Things to note: Can cause irritation if tolerance is not built gradually

  • Lactic Acid Peels

    • Best for: Dry, sensitive, or dull skin

    • Benefits: Gentle exfoliation, hydration (as a humectant), brightening, plumping, and collagen stimulation

    • Strength: Larger molecules, so penetration is shallower and less irritating

    • Things to note: Better tolerated for beginners or those with sensitive skin

  • Glycolic/Lactic Combination Peels

    • Best for: Mixed skin concerns (acne + dryness, dullness + fine lines, uneven tone + dehydration)

    • Benefits: Blends exfoliation with hydration; smooths skin, balances oil, brightens, and plumps

    • Strength: Balanced approach — not automatically stronger, but more versatile

    • Things to note: Still requires tolerance building, but can be a good “all-rounder” choice.

• Do I need to use more than one type of peel?

  No. Most people achieve great results sticking with the type of peel that suits their skin best. However, some choose to rotate or alternate (for example, glycolic one week, lactic the next) — but only once they have built proper tolerance and their skin responds well.

• Which peel should I choose for my skin type?

  • If you have oily, breakout-prone skin → start with glycolic acid.

  • If you have dry or sensitive skin → start with lactic acid.

  • If you have several concerns at once (e.g. spots, dryness, dullness) → try a glycolic/lactic combination peel.

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MORE SKIN PEEL FAQS

• Peel Selection Guide

• Combination Peels

• Glycolic vs Lactic vs Combination Peels

• Suitability & Contraindications

• Building Tolerance & Strengths

• Patch Testing & Neutralisation

• Aftercare & Assessing Results

• Medication & Sensitivity

• Shaving, Tanning & Other Treatments

• Sun Sensitivity and SPF