AHA & BHA Peels
This surface peeling is the first choice among the cosmetic treatments
for different skin problems
AREA
Face, neck, décolleté and back
Procedure Duration
30-60 minutes
Frequency
Series of 3 to 6 treatments at intervals of 3-4 weeks. It is recommended to perform this cycle once a year.
Anaesthesia
None
Results last for
Up to 12 months
Recommended for
Age 18+ (parental consent is required for under 18s)
Downtime
None
What's AHA & BHA?
valuable fruits & plants acids
AHA and BHA are one of the most popular cosmetic acids, so it’s worth getting to know them better. Fruits and plants contain many valuable ingredients that are often used by laboratories for cosmetic companies, therefore AHA and BHA acids are also called fruit acids.
AHA acids (alpha-hydro acids) are natural acids found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, sugarcane and sour milk.
From a large group of BHA acids (beta-hydroxy acids), the only one used in aesthetic medicine is salicylic acid which is obtained from the bark of white willow or meadowsweet. AHA and BHA acids are also called Hydroxy Acids or Exfoliating Acids.
AHA acids (alpha-hydro acids) are natural acids found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, sugarcane and sour milk.
From a large group of BHA acids (beta-hydroxy acids), the only one used in aesthetic medicine is salicylic acid which is obtained from the bark of white willow or meadowsweet. AHA and BHA acids are also called Hydroxy Acids or Exfoliating Acids.
Acids in aesthetic medicine
AHA and BHA peels are organic acids that contain a hydroxyl group within their structure.
Acids from the AHA and BHA groups used in aesthetic medicine:
- Glycolic acid (AHA) – a type of acid obtained mainly from sugar cane. Glycolic acid has very small molecules and is the strongest acid from the AHA group. It strongly exfoliates the skin, but can also irritate it, so it is not recommended for sensitive and reactive skin.
- Lactic acid (AHA) – an acid with an average exfoliating power, obtained from milk. It occurs naturally in buttermilk, yoghurt and sour milk, as well as in pickled vegetables. It has an exfoliating and antibacterial effect, moisturises the skin and strengthens the collagen structure.
- Mandelic acid (AHA) – made from bitter almonds. This is an acid with medium exfoliating power, so it is used for all skin types, even sensitive and irritated. It is often combined with other types of acids for better effectiveness.
- Citric acid (AHA) – a fruit acid, mainly found in citrus and other fruits. It is moderately powerful and is a safe substance in cosmetic products.
- Malic acid (AHA) – In nature, you can find malic acid in unripe apples, grapes and blackberries, it has the same properties as citric acid and is therefore often replaced with it. This acid will not act on its own, it is more effective in combination with other AHA acids.
- Tartaric acid (AHA) – Mainly found in grapes and vine leaves, it is obtained through the fermentation of wine and often used to stabilise the pH of other acids. It is also used in chemical peels because of its cleansing and astringent properties. This acid will also not act on its own, it is used in combination with other AHA acids.
- Salicylic acid (BHA) – obtained from the bark of white willow or meadowsweet. It is an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory acid. It clears the sebaceous canals, blocked by sebum that has not been removed due to abnormal and excessive keratinisation of the hair follicles. It has no drying properties, thanks to which it also effectively cleans the dry parts of skin, polluted with numerous blackheads.
AHA & BHA Peels Benefits
- stimulate the skin renewal process by accelerating cell division,
- smooth wrinkles in the furrow,
- moisturise by loosening the bonds of the epidermis,
- brighten the skin by evenly distributing the pigment,
- prevent the pigment from clumping into larger structures, thus preventing discolouration,
- improve the quality of the skin,
- improve the condition of oily, acne-prone and seborrheic skin,
- stimulate the skin to produce collagen and elastin,
- reduce scars left by skin lesions,
- tighten pores,
- give the skin a smooth and luminous appearance,
- reduce blackheads,
- reduce scars.
AHA & BHA Peels Indications
- acceleration of cell renewal
- papular acne
- pustular acne
- acne vulgaris
- reduction of wrinkles
- shallow scars
- improvement of skin tone
- skin hydration
- skin renewal
- improvement the oval of the face
- thick skin
- acne skin
- oily skin
- eliminating discolouration
- reducing blemishes
- regulating hyperkeratosis
- grey skin
- blackheads
- inflammatory pustules
- refreshment
- improving skin colour
- seborrheic skin
- melasma (chloasma)
- post-inflammatory discolouration
- solar damage
Exfoliation with Glycolic acid (AHA)
strongly stimulates keratolytic (renewal) processes
The safest, modern peel. A high concentration of glycolic acid (50% -70%) exfoliates the epidermis and strongly stimulates keratolytic (renewal) processes in the dermis.
To obtain the expected results, the treatment should be repeated 5 to 12 times, every 7-12 days. The number of treatments and frequency are selected by the cosmetic practitioner at Bpermanent.
On the 2nd and 3rd day, the epidermis is exfoliated with fine particles. Erythema and a tight feeling in the skin may persist for up to 48 hours after the procedure. SPF over 50 should be used for 7 days after the treatment.
To obtain the expected results, the treatment should be repeated 5 to 12 times, every 7-12 days. The number of treatments and frequency are selected by the cosmetic practitioner at Bpermanent.
On the 2nd and 3rd day, the epidermis is exfoliated with fine particles. Erythema and a tight feeling in the skin may persist for up to 48 hours after the procedure. SPF over 50 should be used for 7 days after the treatment.
Indications
- discolouration removal
- acceleration of cell renewal
- papular acne
- pustular acne
- reduction of wrinkles
- shallow scars
- face oval improvement
- skin tone improvement
Exfoliation with Lactic acid (AHA)
correct hydration of the epidermis
A peel with exfoliating and moisturising effects. Lactic acid occurs in two optical forms, L and D. L-lactic acid has biological activity and is a component of the skin and hair. It is one of the main components of NMF (Natural Moisturising Factor) that is responsible for correct hydration of the epidermis.
In cosmetology, the most commonly used acid is L-lactic, which can only be obtained during the natural fermentation process of sugars with the use of lactic acid bacteria of the Lactobacillus genus.
In cosmetology, the most commonly used acid is L-lactic, which can only be obtained during the natural fermentation process of sugars with the use of lactic acid bacteria of the Lactobacillus genus.
Indications
- skin hydration
- skin renewal
- improvement of the face oval
- Reduction of scars and wrinkles
- Reduction of discolouration
- skin colour improvement
- thick skin
- acne skin
- oily skin
To obtain the expected results, the treatment should be repeated 5 to 12 times, every 7-12 days. The number of treatments and frequency are selected by the cosmetic practitioner at Bpermanent.
On the 2nd and 3rd day, the epidermis is exfoliated with fine particles. It is normal for people with active acne to become overactive. After the treatment, SPF over 50 sunscreens should be used for 7 days.
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Exfoliation with Citric acid (AHA)
restores the skin's radiance and fresh appearance
Perfect for various types of stains and discolouration of the facial skin. It reduces excessively calloused epidermis and restores the skin’s radiance and fresh appearance. It has disinfecting, astringent and brightening properties.
To obtain the expected results, the treatment should be repeated from 5 to 12 treatments. Every 7-12 days. The number of treatments and frequency are selected by Bpermanent cosmetic practitioner.
On the 2nd and 3rd day, the epidermis is exfoliated with fine particles. It is normal for people with active acne to become overactive. SPF over 50 should be used for 7 days after the treatment.
To obtain the expected results, the treatment should be repeated from 5 to 12 treatments. Every 7-12 days. The number of treatments and frequency are selected by Bpermanent cosmetic practitioner.
On the 2nd and 3rd day, the epidermis is exfoliated with fine particles. It is normal for people with active acne to become overactive. SPF over 50 should be used for 7 days after the treatment.
Indications
- eliminates discolouration
- reduces stains
- regulates hyperkeratosis
- improves the face oval
- grey skin
Exfoliation with Mandelic acid (AHA)
fore people who do not tolerate other acids
Indications
- discolouration
- acne vulgaris
- blackheads
- inflammatory pustules
- colour correction
- refreshment
This is the only acid that can be used all year round. After the treatment, the peel is practically invisible. Outstanding bactericidal properties. The properties of mandelic acid and excellent tolerance by people with sensitive skin make it possible to perform the treatment on people who do not tolerate treatments using other acids. An excellent acid for vascular skin.
To obtain the expected results, the treatment should be repeated 5 to 12 times, every 7-12 days. The number of treatments and frequency are selected by the cosmetic practitioner at Bpermanent. On the 2nd and 3rd day, the epidermis peels off with fine flakes.
To obtain the expected results, the treatment should be repeated 5 to 12 times, every 7-12 days. The number of treatments and frequency are selected by the cosmetic practitioner at Bpermanent. On the 2nd and 3rd day, the epidermis peels off with fine flakes.
Exfoliation with Salicylic acid (BHA)
the only beta hydroxy acid used by cosmetologists
Exfoliation with salicylic acid – it is the only beta hydroxy acid used by cosmetologists. The acid has antibacterial, exfoliating, antifungal and slightly astringent properties. In concentrations above 10% to 20%, it has keratolytic properties.
To obtain the expected results, the treatment should be repeated 3 to 5 times, every 7-10 days. After the series, it is recommended to perform a prophylactic treatment every 4 weeks. The number of treatments and frequency are selected by the cosmetic practitioner at Bpermanent.
On the 2nd and 3rd day, the epidermis peels off.
To obtain the expected results, the treatment should be repeated 3 to 5 times, every 7-10 days. After the series, it is recommended to perform a prophylactic treatment every 4 weeks. The number of treatments and frequency are selected by the cosmetic practitioner at Bpermanent.
On the 2nd and 3rd day, the epidermis peels off.
Indications
- improves skin colour
- eliminates blackheads
- gently brightens discolouration
- acne skin
- seborrheic skin
- melasma (chloasma) which is one of the most common types of discolouration found mainly in women. They usually appear after the age of 30
- post-inflammatory discolouration
- sun damage
- oily and combination skin
Our Other Chemical Peels
Chemical Peels can be performed with the use of many different products.
At Bpermanent we only use products that are proven to have the best results, well known in the industry and of course tested by millions of customers around the world.
Every product works differently and is designated for different age groups and different skin conditions. Although the patients can suggest what product they are interested in, the cosmetic practitioner is the one who decides which product is most suitable for you and your condition and provides the best possible results.
Please browse the variety of products we have available.
AHA & BHA Peels Before & After
Before the treatment
- The treatment does not require any special preparation
- The procedure will normally be preceded by an in-depth medical interview.
- Strong cosmetic products should not be used in the area where the treatment will be performed for a few days before the treatment
- AHA’s, BHA’s and retinol for a minimum 28 days prior
- Self-tans for 7 days prior
- Waxing, hair removal or bleaching for 14 days prior
- UV or sun exposure for 14 days prior
After the treatment
- No sunbathing for 4 weeks
- Use high SPF 50+ sun protection every day. This is an absolute must because the epidermis becomes thinner
- No use of AHA creams for 14 days
- If exfoliating the epidermis, it is strictly forbidden to scratch it
- It is recommended to use products with an intense moisturising effect, because only moisturised skin can regenerate effectively
- 7 to 14 days (depending on the peeling) after the treatment, avoid bathing in highly chlorinated water
- All cosmetics recommended by your cosmetic practitioner should be applied to the skin after the treatment in order to ensure proper regeneration and maximise the effects
- Make-up should not be done for 48 hours to prevent infection
- As with most of our cosmetic treatments, we recommend that you avoid vigorous exercise for 7 days following your procedure and give up using saunas, swimming pools, gyms, hot baths, solariums, and other places with large groups of people
- You should not drink alcohol for 24 hours
- It is important to strictly follow the rules of hygiene: dry your face with disposable towels, tone the skin, keep make-up brushes, and sponges clean, regularly change bath and hand towels, avoid touching your face and replace clean sheets for the post-treatment period
Possible side effects
- After the treatment, redness, burning and peeling of the epidermis may appear, which will disappear over time
- the skin after the treatment may be slightly tense
- Some people experience slight redness, which disappears after 24-48 hours
- Skin may feel tight and dry
- Mild peeling/shedding may be experienced after the second day of treatment. These are positive effects of the treatment
Contraindications
- pregnancy and lactation period
- allergy / hypersensitivity to the ingredients of the products
- bacterial, fungal, and viral skin infections, skin inflammation
- active herpes, i.e., viral lesions
- skin allergies
- high susceptibility to allergies
- damaged and irritated skin
- connective tissue diseases
- tendency to develop hypertrophic scars
- tendency to develop keloids
- sunburn
- discontinuity of the epidermis
- decompensated diabetes
- neoplastic and autoimmune diseases (requires additional consultation)
- use of corticosteroids (6-8 weeks)
- oral therapy with retinoids, derivatives of vitamin A (at least 6 months break)
- Surgeries (up to 2 months)
- cryotherapy (up to 6 months)
- skin cancers, including undergoing radiation therapy
- chemotherapy
- mental disorders, lack of cooperation
- oral, long-term steroid therapy
Frequently
Asked
Questions
How do fruit acids work?
Skin problems are often associated with an excessive build-up of dead cells, making the skin thick, grey and dull. AHA and BHA acids help to effectively remove the layer of dead cells from the skin surface. This process of exfoliating thickened skin significantly improves its appearance and structure. The depth of action depends on its concentration and is adjusted by the cosmetic practitioner according to the skin type and problem. Acids with a concentration of over 50% give a deep exfoliating effect and should be performed only at aesthetic medicine clinics by professional cosmetic practitioners. Peels based on fruit acids loosen the bonds between the corneocytes of the stratum corneum, thanks to which they have a strong smoothing and brightening effect.
The type of skin affects the choice of acids.
AHA acids are definitely more recommended for dry, thickened and sun-damaged skin. At professional aesthetic medicine clinics, they are also used in high concentrations to care for acne-prone skin. It is important to be systematic with this type of treatment, otherwise the problem will reoccur.
BHA acids, such as salicylic acid, exfoliate dead epidermis cells, thus penetrating the sebum layer. Thanks to this, they excellently clean the pores and penetrate deep into the hair follicles, which is of great importance in the treatment of acne.
BHA acids, such as salicylic acid, exfoliate dead epidermis cells, thus penetrating the sebum layer. Thanks to this, they excellently clean the pores and penetrate deep into the hair follicles, which is of great importance in the treatment of acne.
What is an AHA exfoliant?
AHAs are a series of acids, mostly derived from plant and animal sources, although some are synthetically produced. Well known AHAs such as glycolic, mandelic and citric acid can be found in a variety of skincare products such as toners, exfoliators and serums.
AHAs are water soluble, meaning they can’t penetrate through the skins natural oils. For this reason, they’re mostly used for their exfoliating properties on the skins surface, or stratum corneum. They are great for helping to even out skin tone, lift pigmentation and fade scarring. Some AHAs, such as lactic acid, also act as a humectant which means they will attract hydration to the skin.
AHAs are water soluble, meaning they can’t penetrate through the skins natural oils. For this reason, they’re mostly used for their exfoliating properties on the skins surface, or stratum corneum. They are great for helping to even out skin tone, lift pigmentation and fade scarring. Some AHAs, such as lactic acid, also act as a humectant which means they will attract hydration to the skin.
What is a BHA exfoliant?
BHA stands for beta hydroxy acid. The main difference between an AHA and a BHA is the chemical structure of both of these compounds.
The only used BHA in skincare is salicylic acid, so when products contain a BHA, they are likely referring to the salicylic acid content, which can be derived from natural sources such as willow bark extract.
Unlike AHAs, BHAs are oil soluble, meaning that they have the ability to penetrate deeper into pores, really helping to clean out and dissolve excess sebum build-up, so if you have oilier, blemish-prone skin, salicylic acid is a great treatment for you.
The only used BHA in skincare is salicylic acid, so when products contain a BHA, they are likely referring to the salicylic acid content, which can be derived from natural sources such as willow bark extract.
Unlike AHAs, BHAs are oil soluble, meaning that they have the ability to penetrate deeper into pores, really helping to clean out and dissolve excess sebum build-up, so if you have oilier, blemish-prone skin, salicylic acid is a great treatment for you.
Not for everyone?
Not every skin type is suitable for peels with acids. During the obligatory consultation/interview before the procedure, it is determined which diseases or allergies the client suffers from, what medication they take, and which aesthetic treatments have already been performed. Treatments with acid exfoliation are always chosen by a specialist depending on the problem. It is necessary to select the type of acid with the right pH and concentration, which can reach up to 70%.
Depending on the concentration and pH, we can regulate the depth and intensity of the treatments that we perform in series at intervals of 3-4 weeks.
The best results are obtained after a series of 3 to 6 treatments, carried out at intervals of 3-4 weeks. It is recommended to perform this cycle once a year.
The best results are obtained after a series of 3 to 6 treatments, carried out at intervals of 3-4 weeks. It is recommended to perform this cycle once a year.
