Skin Laboratories Glycolic and Lactic Acid 60% Peel Review
I had purchased a 60% acid peel a few weeks ago, by Skin Laboratories, who seems to be the biggest offering agent of at home, clinical strength acid peels for the face and decolletage area (if indicated). I chose to purchase the one that blends both glycolic acid and lactic acid because I wanted some of the strength of the glycolic, but not all of it, and I wanted the lactic acid because it is good for people who have had acne for their scars, and it is a bit more gentle than the glycolic, although some think not as effective overall because it does not slough as much skin off.
The formula I bought is 25% glycolic and 35% lactic acid. It is a small bottle, about 1 fluid ounce of product, but a little bit goes a long way and I expect to get at least 10 to fifteen peels out of this small bottle since only a thin layer is needed to do the job. The indications in the directions are to put the product on, using a brush or perhaps some other instrument like a cotton ball. I chose to use a makeup brush that I never used because it allowed me to more precisely target where it needed to go.
You are only supposed to leave these peels on for about 3 minutes and possibly less if you have particularly sensitive skin. Believe me, even three minutes can be a bit challenging at first because after you apply the peel , it does begin to burn a bit, and it even tingles and starts to itch a bit after it’s been on there for a minute. The first time I had trouble leaving it on, but was determined to get the most out of it, although this was directly in conflict with the directions since you are supposed to rinse it off if you feel a lot of discomfort. I don’t recommend what I did, but I was fine.
Before applying the peel, they also instruct you to first wash your face and also use a toner, I’m assuming to remove all surface gunk, oil and debris so the peel has maximum effect. I did this and allowed my face to completely dry before brushing on the peel. I am now on my third week of applying the glycolic and lactic acid peel, and I think it is lightening my age spots and scars slightly although I think it will take quite a few more to make a big difference.
I did happen to break out with two huge zits on my nose, and I think this was because my pores were clearing out from the lactic acid. I’ve noticed that my nose blackheads have diminished greatly, as in I can’t really see them any more. I will continue to use this for the amount of time indicated, which is 5 weeks on and one week off, and let you know about the results a little later. So far, so good, and it’s only about $20 for the bottle, which is nothing compared to what an in office peel will cost you.
