Treatment Overview
The AHA Peel (Alpha Hydroxy Acid Peel) is a chemical exfoliation treatment widely used in Korean dermatology clinics to manage pigmentation, uneven skin tone, and texture issues. AHAs such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, or mandelic acid penetrate the skin to gently dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, encouraging exfoliation and cell turnover.
In Korea, AHA Peels are often used as supportive treatments for pigmentation such as freckles, PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), melasma, and sunspots. While not as aggressive as lasers, they play an important role in brightening, maintenance, and combination programs, especially for patients with sensitive or PIH-prone skin.
Purpose & Benefits
- Pigment Lightening: Gradually reduces freckles, PIH, melasma, and sun-induced pigmentation.
- Skin Brightening: Improves clarity, glow, and evenness of tone.
- Texture Refinement: Smooths roughness, reduces fine lines, and refines pores.
- Acne Support: Helps control acne and post-acne pigmentation.
- Safe for Asian Skin: Gentle concentrations and protocols reduce risk of PIH.
Ideal Candidates
AHA Peel in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults with mild to moderate pigmentation such as PIH, freckles, or sunspots.
- Patients with melasma needing gentle, supportive therapy alongside lasers.
- Individuals with dull, rough, or uneven skin tone.
- People with sensitive or PIH-prone skin who cannot tolerate harsh treatments.
- Patients looking for maintenance and combination care with lasers.
Possible Risks & Complications
- Redness & Stinging: Mild, usually subsides within hours.
- Peeling or Flaking: Normal as dead skin sheds.
- Dryness or Sensitivity: May occur temporarily.
- Rare Risks: PIH if strong concentrations are used improperly or aftercare is neglected.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Common Acids Used: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid (sometimes blended with antioxidants).
- Customized Concentrations: 20–70% depending on skin sensitivity and goals.
- Layered Application: Acid solution applied in controlled layers for exfoliation.
- Combination Therapy: Often paired with Pico, Q-switched, or fractional lasers for enhanced pigment reduction.
- Protocol: Typically 3–6 sessions, spaced 2–4 weeks apart.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness, tingling, or tightness.
- 1–3 Days: Light peeling or flaking begins.
- 3–7 Days: Old skin sheds, revealing brighter, smoother skin.
- 1–2 Weeks: More even tone and refined texture.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily; skin is more sensitive to UV.
- Use gentle cleansers and hydrating creams.
- Avoid exfoliants, retinoids, and strong actives for 5–7 days.
- Do not pick at peeling skin.
- Maintain hydration to support skin barrier recovery.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Fresher glow, smoother texture, mild brightening.
- After 2–3 Sessions: Noticeable fading of PIH, freckles, and improved clarity.
- After 4–6 Sessions: Significant improvement in pigmentation, tone, and smoothness.
- Long-Term: Maintenance peels every 1–3 months help sustain results.
Treatment Process in Korea
1. Consultation & Skin Evaluation
- Dermatologist evaluates pigmentation severity and skin sensitivity.
- Peel type and strength are chosen based on individual needs.
2. Preparation
- Cleansing and degreasing of the skin.
- Protective eye coverings applied.
3. AHA Peel Session
- Step 1: Application of AHA solution in controlled layers.
- Step 2: Leave on skin for prescribed time (varies by concentration).
- Step 3: Neutralization and thorough cleansing.
- Step 4: Application of soothing mask, serum, or moisturizer.
- Duration: 15–20 minutes.
4. Post-Treatment Care in Clinic
- Sunscreen and hydrating creams applied.
- Aftercare instructions provided.
5. Follow-Up
- 3–6 sessions recommended for pigmentation concerns.
- Maintenance treatments for long-term tone control.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Gentle, Layered Protocols: Designed to minimize irritation and PIH for Asian skin.
- Combination-Oriented: AHA peels are frequently paired with pigment lasers for comprehensive results.
- Custom Formulations: Clinics often use blends of glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids with antioxidants.
- Affordable & Accessible: Widely offered in Korean dermatology clinics at competitive prices.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Session (Full Face): USD 80 – 150
- 3–6 Session Package: USD 250 – 600
- Premium Program (AHA Peel + Laser + Whitening Drips): USD 800 – 1,500
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Glutathione, Vitamin C, TXA infusions): USD 80 – 200
- Boosters (PRP, Rejuran, Exosomes): USD 200 – 500
- LED or Cooling Mask Therapy: USD 30 – 80
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: AHA peels with Pico laser programs.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Gentle AHA peels for melasma and PIH.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: AHA + whitening drips for glow and pigment correction.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: Combination AHA peels with pigment-targeting lasers.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: AHA peel programs with regenerative boosters for anti-aging + pigmentation.
