Lactic Acid Peel

Service Description

WHAT IT IS A superficial peel using lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid that exfoliates while also acting as a humectant — drawing and holding water in the skin. It is the only common peeling acid that hydrates as it exfoliates. WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE IT Most peels dry the skin out, which is a problem if dryness was the issue in the first place. Lactic acid improves texture and brightness while leaving the skin better hydrated than it started, which suits dry and mature skin particularly well. WHAT WE AIM FOR Smoother, brighter, better-hydrated skin with improved tone — exfoliation without the tightness and dryness other peels leave behind. WHO IT SUITS · Dry, dehydrated skin · Mature skin needing gentle resurfacing · Dullness with a tight, uncomfortable feel · Sensitive skin that finds glycolic too harsh · A very gentle first peel TREATMENT DETAILS Appointment: 20–30 minutes Discomfort: Mild tingling Downtime: Slight redness; minimal flaking First results: Immediate brightness; builds over a course Sessions: Course of 4–6, two weeks apart Course of 3 available: £199 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Which is gentler, lactic or mandelic? Both are gentle. Lactic acid is the better choice where dryness and dehydration are the issue; mandelic where sensitivity, rosacea or pigmentation risk are the priority. Dr Selvi will match the acid to your skin. Do I have to prepare my skin beforehand? For most peels, yes. Stop retinoids and exfoliating acids for about a week before, avoid sun exposure and fake tan, and do not have hair removal or waxing on the area for a week. Dr Selvi will give you specific instructions for your peel. What is the aftercare? Daily broad-spectrum SPF 50 is non-negotiable — freshly peeled skin burns and pigments easily, and skipping sun protection is the single most common reason a peel result disappoints. Use gentle cleansing, plenty of moisturiser, and do not pick or pull flaking skin. Can I have a peel if I have darker skin? Yes, but the choice of peel matters a great deal. Deeper peels carry a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in richly pigmented skin. Dr Selvi will select an appropriate peel and depth, and may recommend priming your skin beforehand. When should I not have a peel? Not during pregnancy or breastfeeding for most agents, not over active cold sores, broken skin or infection, not on recently sun-exposed or sunburnt skin, and not while taking oral isotretinoin or within six months of stopping. Tell Dr Selvi about all medications at consultation. How soon before an event should I have one? Allow at least two weeks for a light peel and four weeks for a medium-depth peel. Never have a peel for the first time in the week before something important. Who will treat me? All treatments at Dr Selvi Clinic are carried out by a doctor, following a face-to-face consultation and an assessment of your suitability. BOOKING Book online, or start with the free 15-minute initial consultation if you are unsure which treatment is right for you. Prices are a guide and may vary according to your personalised treatment plan.