The level of discomfort may be slightly higher than that of the glycolic acid peel. Salicylic acid can be toxic to the system causing dizziness or headache several hours after the treatment. This peel, my favorite among the lighter peels, is especially effective in the treatment of uneven pigmentation and sun damage. It uses a combination consisting of lactic, citric, salicylic and kojic acids, along with hydroquinone. Lactic and citric acids have a lightening effect on the skin.
Lactic acid is also very hydrating.
Kojic acid and hydroquinone inhibit melanin production, which causes hyperpigmentation. Unlike the glycolic acid peel, this peel is not neutralized or washed off. At most, you may experience a mild stinging sensation along with some redness. To enhance exfoliation, this peel can be combined with resorcinol, a stronger exfoliating agent. For a more dramatic improvement, the PCA peel can be combined with an oxygenating treatment, which enhances the peel's exfoliating properties while increasing blood circulation.