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Waxetera

7165 East University Drive
Mesa, AZ, 85207
602-793-4553
Full Body Waxing & Skin Care Studio

7165 East University Drive, Suite 165

Mesa, AZ 85207

602-793-4553

Waxetera

  • Home
  • About
    • Meet Rachel
    • Hours
    • Blog / Photos
  • Services
    • Waxing
    • Facials & Skin Care
    • Microneedling
    • Brow and Lash Tint
    • Lash Lift
  • FAQ
  • Book Appointment
  • Contact

Chemical Peel Season Is Here! Mandelic vs. Lactic Acid Peels

November 7, 2026 Rachel Cunningham

Chemical Peel Season Is Here!

Mandelic vs. Lactic Acid Peels

Fall is finally here in Arizona, and that means it's a great time to start thinking about chemical peels!

After months of intense sunshine, you might be noticing more sunspots, uneven skin tone, or skin that's looking a little dull. Chemical peels are a great way to exfoliate, improve skin texture, and give your complexion a refreshed appearance.

Two of my favorite peels at Waxetera are mandelic acid and lactic acid. Both offer excellent exfoliation benefits, but each has its own strengths.

Mandelic Acid Peels: Great for Sunspots and Uneven Skin Tone

If you're noticing sunspots, age spots, or uneven pigmentation, mandelic acid may be a great option for you.

Mandelic acid is a alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates the skin, helping improve the appearance of discoloration over time.

It's especially beneficial for:

  • Sunspots and age spots

  • Uneven skin tone

  • Rough skin texture

  • Dull-looking skin

  • Congested pores and acne-prone skin

Mandelic acid works more gradually than some other exfoliating acids, making it a good option for many skin types.

Lactic Acid Peels: Exfoliation With Hydration

If your skin is feeling dry, dull, or rough, lactic acid might be just what it needs!

Lactic acid is another AHA that exfoliates while also helping the skin retain moisture. It's especially nice for skin that needs both exfoliation and hydration.

Lactic acid peels can help with:

  • Dry, dehydrated-looking skin

  • Rough or uneven texture

  • Dullness

  • The appearance of fine lines

  • Uneven skin tone

The result can be skin that looks smoother, brighter, and more refreshed.

Chemical Peels With Very Little Downtime

One of the things I love about these peels is that there's typically very little downtime, if any!

Many clients experience only mild redness, dryness, or light flaking afterward. Some don't notice any visible peeling at all.

And here's something that surprises people: You don't actually have to see your skin peeling to benefit from a chemical peel!

Most clients can return to their usual daily activities right away, although protecting your skin from the sun and following aftercare instructions is important.

Why I Recommend a Series of Three

While a single peel can leave your skin feeling smoother and looking brighter, I typically recommend a series of at least three treatments for more noticeable improvements.

Treatments are spaced 2–4 weeks apart, allowing your skin time to recover between sessions while gradually improving the appearance of sun damage, uneven pigmentation, and rough skin texture.

A series of three typically takes 4–8 weeks from the first treatment to the last.

Everyone's skin is different, so I'll help you choose the peel that's best suited to your skin and your goals.

Why Fall Is Chemical Peel Season in Arizona

Here in Arizona, our intense summer sunshine can make chemical peels more challenging to schedule. Since freshly exfoliated skin needs extra protection from UV exposure, fall and winter are often more convenient times to begin a series.

Of course, sunscreen is important year-round! You'll still need to protect your skin from the sun before and after your treatments.

Chemical Peel Pricing at Waxetera

Single Chemical Peel: $125

Series of Three: $281.25 — Save 25%!

Whether you're looking to improve the appearance of sunspots, smooth rough texture, or give dry, dull skin some extra attention, this is a great time to get started.

Not sure whether mandelic or lactic acid is right for you? I'm happy to help you decide!

Book Your Chemical Peel at Waxetera

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