Chemical Exfoliation and Advanced Skin Care Treatments
Acids and how they behave
AHAs (glycolic, lactic, mandelic, malic) are water-soluble and work at the surface, making them useful for dryness, texture, and dullness. BHA (salicylic acid) is oil-soluble and reaches into the pore, so it suits oily and congested skin. TCA and stronger resurfacing agents sit at a different level of risk and belong only to providers licensed and trained for them. What matters most is not the headline percentage but the pH and free-acid value - a "stronger" peel at a buffered pH may do less than a lower percentage at a low pH.
Before, during, after
Patch test, degrease, protect sensitive zones with a barrier, apply evenly in a timed sequence, and neutralize exactly as the protocol and label require - incomplete neutralization keeps working after the client leaves. Watch for stinging beyond the expected minutes, uniform frost, or blistering, and stop. Post-care is sunscreen, gentle cleansing, and no waxing, retinoids, scrubs, or heat for the recommended window. Skin stays photosensitive well beyond the day of service.
Devices
Microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, LED, ultrasound, galvanic, and high-frequency devices each carry their own contraindications and training requirements. Only perform what your license level, training, and employer's insurance permit.
Traps: assuming higher percentage equals deeper peel; skipping neutralization; peeling over broken or recently waxed skin; treating deeper phototypes without a pigment plan.
Rule of thumb: patch test, follow the label's timing to the second, neutralize completely, and send the client home with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.