A gentle reset for tired skin
Sometimes the skin does not need a dramatic intervention. It just needs a reset — a way to clear away the accumulation of dead cells, pollution, and everyday dullness that builds up on the surface and leaves the complexion looking flat. A gentle peel can do exactly that.
AHA peels are the most accessible entry point into chemical peels. They work on the surface, they are well-tolerated, and they do not require the kind of downtime that deeper peels demand. For many people, they are the first peel they try — and often the one they return to.
What AHA peels are
Alpha-hydroxy-acid (AHA) peels use naturally occurring acids — most commonly glycolic or lactic acid — to gently exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin. By loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, they allow the surface to shed more efficiently, revealing the fresher, smoother skin beneath.
They are light, superficial treatments. They do not reach the deeper layers of the skin and are not designed for deep pigmentation or scarring. What they do well is improve tone, brightness, and the overall quality of the skin's surface.
How they work
The acid solution is applied to clean skin and left in place for a short, controlled time. During this time, it works to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface. The solution is then neutralised and removed.
The result is a fresher, more even surface. Over the following days, any residual dead skin may flake gently — though with light AHA peels, this is often minimal. The skin looks brighter and feels smoother, with a more even tone.
What happens at your appointment
Sarah begins with a full skin assessment and medical history. She will examine your skin, discuss your concerns, and advise whether an AHA peel is the right starting point — or whether a different treatment, or a stronger peel, might be more appropriate.
The peel itself takes around twenty minutes. Your skin is cleansed, the solution is applied, and Sarah monitors your skin throughout. Most people feel a mild warmth or tingling during the treatment, which settles once the solution is neutralised.
Aftercare and what to expect
After an AHA peel, your skin may be slightly pink and feel warm for a few hours. Mild flaking may occur over the following two to three days, but it is usually subtle and easily managed with moisturiser.
We will provide clear aftercare guidance — including sun protection, which is essential after any peel, and which skincare products to avoid in the days following treatment. Most people return to their normal routine the next day.
A good place to start
If you have never had a chemical peel before, an AHA peel is often where we recommend beginning. It is gentle, well-tolerated, and gives you a sense of how your skin responds to peels before considering a deeper treatment.
A short course of AHA peels — typically three to four, spaced two to four weeks apart — can maintain and build on results over time. We will discuss the right plan for your skin at consultation.