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Glycolic, lactic and salcyclic acid milk peel with a dermal therapist in Sydney

What Is a Milk Peel?

A Milk Peel is a superficial chemical peel, formulated by Dermaceutic, that combines glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids to gently exfoliate the outermost layer of skin. It supports cell turnover for collagen stimulation and gives you a brighter, more even complexion, without the more noticeable peeling associated with deeper treatments. 

One of our most gentle peel options, the Milk Peel is often recommended as an introductory option for patients new to medical-grade peels, or as maintenance between more intensive procedures.

The name comes from lactic acid – one of the peel’s three active acids – which occurs naturally in milk and is sometimes referred to as ‘milk acid.’ The practice of using lactic acid to exfoliate the skin dates back to antiquity, with Cleopatra famously said to have bathed in sour milk for smoother, brighter skin.

What Can a Milk Peel Help With?

A Milk Peel can address a range of concerns to deliver overall skin rejuvenation, including: 

  • Dullness and uneven skin tone
  • Mild congestion and early breakouts
  • Superficial pigmentation
  • Early signs of ageing, including fine lines
  • Rough or uneven texture
  • Keratosis pilaris, sandpaper-like bumps known as “chicken bumps” 

Individual results vary and your Skin & Laser Therapist will discuss what may be realistic for your skin during a consultation before any treatment begins.

How Does a Milk Peel Work

How Does a Milk Peel Work?

Milk Peel is applied to clean, prepared skin by a cosmetic practitioner and left on for a short period before being rinsed away. Its blend of AHA and BHA acids works to loosen the bonds between dead skin cells, supporting gentle exfoliation without the more noticeable peeling associated with deeper treatments. Because it works at a superficial level, many patients experience little to no visible peeling.

How Many Milk Peels Should You Have?

A course of three peels spaced two to four weeks apart is often recommended for cumulative benefit, depending on your goals, event timing and skin’s response. 

Milk Peel is generally suitable to combine with some types of lasers including Laser Genesis and LED Light Therapy on the same day for a more intense effect. It may be used to assist with exfoliation in between more invasive treatments such as Skin Needling and Laser Resurfacing, depending on suitability and your treatment plan. 

What to Expect in a Milk Peel in our Sydney and Brisbane Clinics

Before your treatment:

  • A one-to-one discussion about your skin concerns, goals and any previous peel or skincare experience
  • A skin assessment by your Skin & Laser Therapist to confirm suitability, including relevant medical history and current skincare products
  • An explanation of the process, what to expect during and after, and any preparation recommended beforehand
  • A written plan you can take away, with no pressure or expectation to proceed on the day

During your treatment:

  • Cleansing and preparation of the skin
  • Application of the Milk Peel solution
  • A short wait before rinsing

After your treatment:

  • Mild redness for a few hours is common
  • Light flaking or dryness may occur for 2 to 5 days
  • Daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential to protect refreshed skin
MIlk Peel Before and After image
Female face showing clear skin after a Milk Peel at Contour Clinics
Before and after Milk Peel for congested, pigmented skin

Before and After a Milk Peel for Congested Skin

Before and After a Milk Peel for Superficial Pigmentation

Before and After a Milk Peel for Pigmented Lesions

*Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient.

How Much Is a Milk Peel in Sydney and Brisbane?

At Contour Clinics, the price for a Milk Peel in our Sydney and Brisbane clinics is $250.

Consultations at Contour Clinics are complimentary, comprehensive and obligation-free. A $75 deposit is payable upon booking your appointment and is credited to your treatment if you proceed, or refunded in full if you decide not to.

There is no expectation to proceed with treatment after your consultation – your Skin & Laser Therapist will provide you with a tailored, written plan that you can take away and decide on in your own time. If you would like to proceed, same-day treatment may be available depending on availability.

For detailed information call, send us a message or book a consultation.

Prices

Frequently Asked Questions

Results

How many Milk Peel treatments will I need?

This depends on your skin and goals. Many patients have a course of three Milk Peels spaced two to four weeks apart for cumulative benefit. Your Skin & Laser Therapist will recommend a schedule suited to you, and Milk Peel is also commonly used as a maintenance treatment between other procedures.

When will I notice a difference in my skin?

Some patients notice their skin looking brighter shortly after treatment, though individual timelines and results vary depending on skin type and condition.

Who Is A Milk Peel Suitable For?

Milk Peel is considered safe for sensitive skin, and is generally suitable for all skin types, including most Fitzpatrick skin types and first-time peel patients, once assessed by your Skin & Laser Therapist. 

It may not be appropriate if you have an active skin infection, a compromised skin barrier, open wounds or an eczema flare, have recently used isotretinoin, have known allergies to peel ingredients, or are pregnant or breastfeeding (assessed on an individual and clinic basis). A full medical history is reviewed during your consultation.

Is a Milk Peel safe for sensitive skin?

Yes, Milk Peel is formulated to be gentle enough for sensitive skin, which is part of why it’s often recommended as an introductory peel. Suitability is always confirmed through an individual assessment with your Skin & Laser Therapist.

Lactic acid vs glycolic acid in Milk Peel: which is better for sensitive skin?

Both are AHAs, but lactic acid has a larger molecular size than glycolic acid, so it penetrates more slowly and is often considered milder for sensitive skin. Milk Peel combines both, alongside salicylic acid, so your Skin & Laser Therapist can tailor the balance to your skin’s sensitivity rather than relying on a single acid alone.

Can I have a Milk Peel if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

This is assessed on an individual basis. Please discuss your circumstances with your Skin & Laser Therapist during consultation.

Is a Milk Peel safe if I have active cystic acne?

Milk Peel is formulated for mild acne rather than active cystic acne, which typically involves deeper, more inflamed breakouts needing a different treatment approach. If you have cystic acne, your Skin & Laser Therapist will assess your skin during consultation and advise on the most suitable option for you.

Is there any downtime after a Milk Peel?

Downtime is so minimal that the Milk Peel is commonly referred to as a “lunchtime peel”, meaning it’s a short appointment with little downtime so that you can return to normal activities immediately after, without your appearing negatively impacted. You may notice mild redness for a few hours, with light flaking or dryness possible for 2 to 5 days.

What are the side effects of a Milk Peel in the first 48 hours?

In the first 48 hours, mild redness and warmth are common, similar to a light sunburn sensation, along with some tightness as your skin begins to renew itself. Some patients notice light flaking beginning within this window, though for others it appears slightly later, up to day 5.

What aftercare is recommended for a Milk Peel?

Daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential following treatment. Your Skin & Laser Therapist will provide specific aftercare guidance based on your skin.

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