Uncategorized
Chemical Peels 101: TCA, AHA, BHA and PHA Explained
Aug
Chemical Peels 101: TCA, AHA, BHA and PHA Explained
Chemical peels are one of the oldest tools in aesthetic medicine, yet the acronyms attached to them — TCA, AHA, BHA, PHA — still trip up practitioners newer to the category. Each acid type behaves differently, targets different concerns, and suits different skin types. Here’s the plain-English breakdown.
The Four Acid Types, Explained Simply
TCA (trichloroacetic acid) is a stronger, protein-coagulating acid that penetrates to the dermis. Traditional TCA peels at higher concentrations cause visible peeling and require real downtime, but newer biphasic formulations like [Bio Repeel](https://proaestheticsupply.eu/?s=Bio Repeel) (35% TCA) and needle-free options like PRX-T33 deliver TCA’s biostimulating benefits without the classic frost-and-peel downtime.
AHA (alpha hydroxy acids) — glycolic, lactic, mandelic acids fall into this group. AHAs are water-soluble and work primarily on the skin’s surface, smoothing dead skin cells and boosting collagen density. They’re a gentler entry point for resurfacing and widely used in professional peel lines like Mesoestetic.
BHA (beta hydroxy acid) — salicylic acid is the main player here. Because BHAs are oil-soluble, they penetrate into pores more effectively than AHAs, making them the go-to choice for acne-prone and blemish-prone skin, with genuine anti-inflammatory properties on top of exfoliation.
PHA (polyhydroxy acids) are the gentlest of the four — larger molecules that exfoliate more slowly, offering antioxidant and barrier-strengthening benefits with minimal irritation. PHAs are increasingly used in hybrid peels for sensitive skin types that can’t tolerate stronger acids.
Why Modern Peels Combine Multiple Acid Types
Very few professional peels use just one acid anymore. [Lanez Skin’s Hybrid Peeling](https://proaestheticsupply.eu/?s=Lanez Skin), for example, combines AHA, BHA, and PHA in a single formula specifically to broaden the treatment’s benefit — AHA for texture, BHA for blemish control, PHA for barrier support — while minimising the irritation any single strong acid might cause on its own. This layered-acid approach has become the standard for versatile, multi-skin-type peel products.
Matching Peel Type to Patient Concern
| Concern | Best-suited peel approach |
|---|---|
| Pigmentation, melasma | TCA-based (Infini Peel, Mesoestetic Cosmelan) |
| Acne, blemish-prone skin | BHA-forward hybrid formulas |
| General resurfacing, dullness | AHA-based, or PRX-T33 for no-downtime biostimulation |
| Sensitive skin, minimal downtime | PHA-forward hybrid formulas ([Lanez Skin](https://proaestheticsupply.eu/?s=Lanez Skin)) |
| Acne scarring | Higher-strength TCA protocols under close supervision |
The “No Downtime” Peel Shift
One of the more significant developments in this category is the move toward peels that deliver genuine biostimulation without the classic visible peeling. PRX-T33 and [Bio Repeel](https://proaestheticsupply.eu/?s=Bio Repeel) both use biphasic delivery systems that let a comparatively strong TCA concentration work at the dermal level while protecting the epidermis — meaning patients get real collagen stimulation with a same-day return to normal activities, which has made these products increasingly popular for patients who can’t accommodate visible downtime.
What to Pair With a Peel Protocol
Peels work well as a standalone treatment, but they’re also a strong complement to injectables. Following a peel with a skin booster like Jalupro or Dermaheal supports post-treatment hydration and recovery, while some practitioners sequence peels ahead of dermal filler work to optimise skin texture before addressing volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between AHA and BHA peels? AHAs are water-soluble and work on the skin’s surface, best for general texture and mild pigmentation. BHAs are oil-soluble and penetrate into pores, making them better suited to acne and blemish-prone skin.
Is a 35% TCA peel too strong for regular use? Not necessarily — biphasic formulations like Bio Repeel are specifically engineered to deliver strong TCA concentrations without the visible peeling typically associated with that strength, though they should still only be administered by trained professionals with proper technique.
Can chemical peels be used year-round? It depends on the specific formulation. Traditional stronger peels often require avoiding sun exposure and are seasonally restricted, while newer biphasic and PHA-forward formulas (including PRX-T33 and Infini Peel) are specifically designed for year-round use without increased photosensitivity.
How many peel sessions does a typical protocol need? Most professional peel protocols involve 3–5 sessions spaced 1–2 weeks apart, followed by maintenance sessions every few months, though this varies by product and skin condition.
Building Your Peel Menu
ProAestheticSupply.eu stocks a full range of professional chemical peels across TCA, hybrid AHA/BHA/PHA, and needle-free biostimulation formulas, with fast delivery across the UK and EU. Browse our complete chemical peels category, or pair your peel order with skin boosters for post-treatment care. Check our FAQs for ordering information, or contact our team if you need help building out a peel protocol for your clinic.
