Here You Can Learn About Some Of The Chemical Peel Ingredients

Chemical peel ingredients are acids. The ingredient listed on the label may not indicate exactly what you are getting. So, here is a list of the names you might see and an explanation of each.

Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid may be listed as alpha hydroxy acid, AHA, lactic acid, buttermilk, sugar cane juice or tomato juice. Companies have to adhere to the international nomenclature of cosmetic ingredients, but in some cases there are different names allowed for the same ingredient. When it comes to the alpha and beta hydroxy acids, sometimes it is just simpler to put AHA or BHA, rather than the exact acid that is used.

Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is found in aspirin. It was originally discovered in tree bark. It may also be listed as beta hydroxy acid or BHA.

Citric Acid
Citric acid can be found in a variety of fruits. So, the ingredient may be listed as orange or lemon extract. It is the citric acid that makes fresh fruit juices a good natural alternative for toning.

Tartaric Acid
Tartaric acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid found in grapes. Not all grape products contain tartaric acid. Grape seeds and oils do not naturally contain the acid. It is found primarily in the skin and flesh.

Resorcinol
Resorcinol is one of the Jessner's chemical peel ingredients. It is combined with salicylic and lactic acid. Resorcinol is derived from benzene. Benzene is a known carcinogen.

Retinoic Acid
Retinoic acid is derived from antioxidants called retinoids. They are found in a variety of brightly colored fruits and vegetables. It is typically used only in a medical spa or plastic surgeon's office, because it is relatively strong and has a tendency to over-peel. Jessner's is said to be safer, but the benzene derivative is a worrisome ingredient.

Trichloroacetic Acid
Trichloracetic acid or TCA is one of the stronger chemical peel ingredients. It is one of the manmade chemicals, created by replacing the hydrogen atoms in acetic acid with chlorine. Chlorine, as you may know, is the main component of household bleach. TCA peels are notorious for causing bleaching of the skin's surface. Sometimes that is not the desired effect.

None of the peels are without risk. It is wise to consult a professional, because people have different types of complexions. Some chemical peel ingredients are best suited for darker complexions. Others are best for lighter complexions.

There are many other factors to consider, as well. A professional can help you make the best decision.