Rejuvenation skin peels are some of the most popular services provided by the staff of the Advanced Dermatology & Laser Center.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) are a group of naturally occurring acids which are derived from certain plants and fruits. The most commonly used form of AHA is glycolic acid which comes from sugar cane. Recent studies have demonstrated that AHA products can be used in specific skin care programs to combat:

• Acne
• Dry skin
• Weathered sun damaged skin
• Blotchy pigmentation
• Fine wrinkles

Alpha Hydroxy Acids work by stimulating new growth of skin and collagen by decreasing the "glue" that holds dead skin cells on the skin surface. This allows dead cells to slough off, leaving behind a layer of smoother, softer skin. AHAs also help to unclog pores and thus decrease the tendency for acne to develop.

During Alpha Hydroxy Acid peels a solution of glycolic acid is applied to your skin for a brief period of time and then washed off. This solution causes several of the top layers of skin to dry up and to peel off over a period of several days. When the older layer has peeled off, it exposes a new layer of undamaged skin which has a smoother texture and better color.

Most AHA peels are superficial, causing some flaking of the skin for 1-2 days. The superficial peels have often been called "lunchtime peels" since most can be performed without having to miss any time from work. Since they are light peels it is best to perform a series of peels (usually six at 2-3 week intervals) in order to achieve the best results.

All areas of the body appear to respond well to treatment with glycolic acid. As with any procedure, not everyone is a candidate for an AHA peel. Unlike many other peels, those done with AHAs usually do not permanently lighten the skin. Therefore, they can be performed on patients with darker skin types including Hispanics, East Indians, Orientals, and African Americans.