AHA Fruit-Acid Chemical Peel

Medical-grade chemical peel using AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid) fruit acids applied under physician supervision at Dermo Písek. The acids dissolve the bonds holding dead and damaged keratinocytes at the skin's surface, triggering controlled exfoliation that reveals smoother, more evenly toned skin beneath. Repeated application stimulates fibroblast activity and modest collagen production in the upper dermis. At Dermo Písek the peel is used to address the aftermath of acne (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, superficial scarring), age-related pigmentation, and early-stage skin ageing. Because the clinic is a dermatovenerology practice, the formulation and application protocol are medically supervised — a meaningful distinction from cosmetic salon peels.

Chemical peeling at Dermo Písek uses alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) derived from fruit sources — typically glycolic acid (from sugar cane), lactic acid (from milk) or citric acid (from citrus) — applied to the face in a controlled concentration that produces predictable, physician-supervised exfoliation. AHA peels belong to the superficial-to-medium peel category: they work primarily on the stratum corneum and uppermost layers of the epidermis, with some penetration into the papillary dermis at higher concentrations. The mechanism of action is keratolytic: the acids lower the pH at the skin surface, weakening the ionic bonds that hold senescent (old) corneocytes together and accelerating their shedding. This reveals the newer, more hydrated cells beneath while simultaneously signalling the dermis to increase fibroblast activity and begin laying down new collagen and hyaluronic acid. The result is smoother texture, a more even tone and — with repeated courses — measurable improvements in fine line depth and skin firmness. At Dermo Písek the peel is applied in a medical setting by trained staff, with the physician available for assessment. The clinical context matters: acne-prone skin, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and superficial scarring all require a tailored approach to acid concentration and application time that goes beyond what a cosmetic salon can offer. The dermatovenerology background of the practice means the decision to peel, and which formulation to use, is based on a diagnostic assessment of the skin condition rather than a cosmetic menu. Conditions addressed: acne aftermath (PIH, shallow textural scarring), pigmentation irregularities and sun damage, mildly keratotic skin (rough texture, enlarged pores), early signs of photoageing (fine lines, dullness). The peel session typically takes 30–45 minutes. The acid is applied, left for a controlled duration determined by the practitioner, then neutralised. A mild tingling or warmth during application is normal. Post-treatment redness and mild flaking over 3–5 days is expected — this is the controlled exfoliation phase. Aftercare: avoid sun exposure for at least 4 weeks after treatment, use SPF 50+ daily, and refrain from mechanical exfoliation (scrubs, loofahs) during the peeling phase. Multiple courses spaced 3–6 months apart are typically recommended for sustained improvement. Contraindications: active acne with many open pustules, rosacea (use with caution), herpes simplex (cold sore history — antiviral cover required), sunburn, open wounds, or isotretinoin use in the previous 6 months.