DM DERMATOLOGY
LaLa Peel
LHALA PEEL
Clearing built-up dead skin
in fine flakes:
LaLa Peel
LaLa Peel is a chemical peel that applies an acid called LHA to the face to remove built-up dead skin from the outermost layer in fine flakes. It also loosens sebum tangled at pore openings.
Lipo-Hydroxy Acid Peel
Aesthetic · LaLa Peel
LHA (lipo-hydroxy acid) is salicylic acid, often used in acne cosmetics, with an oily chain attached. It dissolves in oil more readily than salicylic acid and penetrates the skin more slowly. So it works by letting dead skin shed cell by cell, rather than peeling off all at once.
LaLa Peel is an LHA peel product made by H2MEDI, a Korean company. Clinics usually use it in two steps: an LHA solution clears dead skin, and then a moisturizing and soothing solution is applied.
If red, pus-filled pimples are spread across your face, or you have wounds or blisters, get an examination before a peel. Our medical staff check your acne and the medications you take, then decide whether LaLa Peel suits you.
- LHA peel
- Built-up dead skin
- Skin texture
- Pore openings
HOW IT WORKS
Slowly penetrating LHA removes
dead skin one cell at a time
The stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin, is made of flat cells that have reached the end of their life, stacked in layers. Small button-like connections hold the cells to one another. If these connections do not release on time, dead skin stays thick and tangles with sebum at pore openings.
Because LHA mixes well with oil, it does not move quickly into the skin but stays in the stratum corneum longer. Within the stratum corneum, LHA releases the connections between cells and sheds dead skin one cell at a time. Because it dissolves in oil, it also seeps into sebum-filled pore openings and is used to loosen the small plugs of dead skin (comedones) that block them.
LaLa Peel acts on the stratum corneum and pore openings. It is not a treatment that works down in the dermis. Deep wrinkles, sagging skin, and depressed scars are discussed separately, with treatments that address the dermis.
- 1
Stratum corneum The outermost layer of flat, old cells stacked together. Most LHA stays in this layer.
- 2
Single-cell flakes Dead skin cells whose connections have loosened, shedding one at a time. This differs from peeling off in large sheets.
- 3
Pore opening Where sebum and dead skin tangle into a plug. LHA follows the sebum and seeps in here.
- 4
Epidermis The layer below the stratum corneum where new cells are made. Cells from this layer gradually fill in where dead skin has shed.
- 5
Dermis The deeper layer that contains collagen. LaLa Peel does not work at this depth.
CHECK
If you have these skin texture concerns
If even one applies, we start by checking your dead skin and sebum at the examination.
- Check01
My makeup cracks over dead skin
By afternoon, the foundation on my cheeks and beside my nose turns white and lifts. - Check02
My skin feels tight inside but shiny outside
With dryness and oiliness together, I'm unsure which care to choose. - Check03
My forehead and chin feel rough
I can feel tiny bumps with my fingertips, and my pore openings often clog with sebum. - Check04
My complexion looks dull and lacks glow
The rough surface makes my complexion look a shade darker. - Check05
An acid peel has stung me before
I'm looking for a peel that does not peel off in large flakes.
5–10min
Time the LHA solution
stays on the skin1day
Time it usually takes
for redness to settle2–4wk
Interval before
the next LaLa Peel3–6sessions
Done in a row when first
improving skin texture
COMPARE
LHA and salicylic acid:
they penetrate differently
LHA is made by changing the structure of salicylic acid (BHA). They belong to the same family but behave differently in the skin.
This does not mean one is better. They simply clear dead skin in different ways, and the right peel is chosen based on your skin.
Key Point
Features of LaLa Peel
A peel that clears dead skin in fine flakes rather than peeling it off in large pieces.
- 01
A slowly penetrating ingredient
LHA stays in the stratum corneum longer and works slowly. So rather than peeling off in large pieces, dead skin tends to shed in fine flakes.
- 02
Reaching oily areas
Because it dissolves in oil, it reaches pore openings in oily areas such as the nose and chin.
- 03
Clear first, then replenish
After LHA clears dead skin, we finish with a moisturizing and soothing solution.
- 04
Relatively easy to keep up daily life
Redness usually settles within a day. Light makeup can often be worn on the day of treatment.
PROCESS
LaLa Peel
treatment steps
Below is the general flow. We explain the actual plan after an examination.
Examination
We look at skin texture, sebum, acne, and redness. We also ask about the medications and cosmetics you use, recent treatments, and whether you have had cold sores on the lips.
Cleansing
We wipe off makeup and surface oil. This prepares the skin so the solution reaches the whole face evenly.
Applying the LHA solution
We spread a thin layer of solution, avoiding the eye area and around the lips, and leave it on for a few minutes. Please keep your eyes closed. If the burning gets strong, tell us right away.
Wiping off · moisturizing step
Once the solution has worked enough, it is removed completely. Then a moisturizing and soothing solution is applied to calm the skin.
Soothing · sun protection
If warmth remains, we cool the skin with a cold pack or mask. We apply sunscreen thoroughly, then explain how to care for your skin at home.
INFORMATION
What to check
before your treatment
- Procedure time20–30 min
Time from cleansing to soothing. The solution stays on the skin for about 5–10 min - NumbingNo numbing
You may feel slight stinging or warmth for the few minutes the solution is on - RecoveryRedness usually settles within 1 day
Flaking is barely visible, or fine flakes may appear for 1–3 days - Daily lifeLight makeup from the same day
On the first day, wash gently with lukewarm water; skip scrubs and exfoliating products for 1 week - IntervalEvery 2–4 weeks
The first few sessions are sometimes 2 weeks apart - Sessions3–6 sessions
After that, intervals are lengthened based on skin texture and sebum
Timing and schedule vary with how your skin responds. We set your actual schedule after an examination.
Caution
Aftercare and precautions
after LaLa Peel
For a week after treatment, your skin may be dry and sensitive to sunlight.
- 01Wash gently with water on the first day
On the night of treatment, wash with lukewarm water, and use a mild cleanser from the next day. Pat dry gently with a towel.
- 02Leave fine flakes alone
Do not pick off or rub away flakes by hand. Pulling them off can leave the area red or marked.
- 03Moisturize often
If your skin feels tight, apply a low-fragrance moisturizer several times a day.
- 04Sun protection
LHA is derived from salicylic acid, so protect your skin from the sun every day after treatment. Apply sunscreen every time you go out, and reapply if you are outdoors for a long time.
- 05What to pause for 1 week
Pause scrubs, exfoliating pads, high-concentration acid products, and retinol for 1 week. On the day of treatment, also avoid saunas and exercise that makes you sweat a lot.
- 06Don't squeeze breakouts
A few pimples may appear in the days while dead skin is clearing. Do not squeeze them; if they keep increasing, let our clinic know.
- While the solution is on, you may feel stinging, warmth, or itching. After treatment, your face may stay red and warm; this usually settles the same day or the next day.
- For a few days, skin may feel dry and tight, and fine, powder-like flakes may be visible. While built-up dead skin clears, hidden small bumps or pimples may surface for a short time.
- Rarely, blisters or scabs may form, the skin may break down as with a burn, or redness may last more than a few days. In that case, do not touch the area, and contact our clinic.
- Areas that turned red after a peel may become blotchy and brown (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). This is more likely with darker skin or recently tanned skin. For 2 weeks before treatment, do not tan on purpose or stay in the sun for long.
- If you have had cold sore blisters around the mouth from herpes simplex, the stimulation of a peel may bring them back. If you have blisters, wounds, inflammation, or sunburn on your face that day, the treatment is moved to another day.
- Be sure to tell us if you are taking isotretinoin (an oral acne medication) or have recently stopped it. Your skin becomes thin and sensitive, so the same peel can break it down more easily.
- Please tell us in advance if you use topical retinoids (retinol, tretinoin), high-concentration acid cosmetics, or brightening ointments. These are usually paused from 1–2 weeks before a peel.
- LHA is derived from salicylic acid. Please tell us if you have had an allergy, such as hives or itching, to aspirin or salicylic acid. Salicylic acid-type peels are generally not recommended during pregnancy. Please tell us in advance if you are pregnant or might be, or if you are breastfeeding.
- If you have keloids (a tendency for scars to rise up red), or your face often flushes from rosacea or atopic dermatitis, please mention it at your examination.
- Please tell us in advance if you take medication that makes you sensitive to sunlight, such as some antibiotics or oral contraceptives. These medications can raise the chance of dark marks after a peel.
- If the solution gets into your eyes, they may sting and turn red. Keep your eyes closed while it is applied, and tell us immediately if your eyes sting.
How long redness lasts, how much flaking occurs, and how much skin texture changes depend on skin thickness, sebum, the cosmetics you use, and lifestyle, and vary from person to person.
DM DOCTOR
A board-certified dermatologist as medical director
Personal diagnosis · Accountable care
Thorough care from a board-certified dermatologist with over 20 years of treating skin
At DM Dermatology, our medical director, a board-certified dermatologist, examines your skin in person and plans treatment around your concerns and daily life.
Dr. Shin Young-ik Medical Director · Board-Certified Dermatologist
- M.S., Hanyang University College of Medicine
- Adjunct Professor, Hanyang University
- Full Member, Korean Dermatological Association
- Clinical Fellowship in Dermatology, Jefferson Medical College (Thomas Jefferson University), USA
Care by a board-certified dermatologistPatients here are seen by a dermatologist certified by the Ministry of Health and Welfare
DM DERMATOLOGY
Related treatments
FAQ
01What does LaLa Peel do?
LaLa Peel uses LHA to clear built-up dead skin in fine flakes and loosen sebum tangled at pore openings. When dead skin is cleared evenly, skin texture may feel smoother and makeup may lift less. How much changes, and when, varies from person to person.
02How is the LHA in LaLa Peel different from salicylic acid (BHA)?
LHA is made by changing the structure of salicylic acid (BHA) so it dissolves better in oil. It moves slowly into the skin and stays mainly in the stratum corneum. So rather than peeling off several layers of dead skin at once, it works by shedding it one cell at a time.
03Does LaLa Peel hurt?
It is done without numbing. During the few minutes the LHA solution is on, your skin may sting or feel warm. If the burning gets strong, tell us right then. We can shorten how long the solution stays on.
04Will my skin flake after LaLa Peel? Is there downtime?
In many cases, flaking is not noticeable or appears only as fine flakes for 1–3 days. Even if your face turns red, it usually settles the same day or the next day. However, it may last longer if your skin is dry or sensitive.
05Can I wash my face and wear makeup on the day of LaLa Peel?
Light makeup can usually be worn even on the day of treatment. On the first night, wash gently with lukewarm water, and use a mild cleanser from the next day. Be sure to apply sunscreen when you go out.
06How many LaLa Peel sessions do I need, and how far apart?
Usually once every 2–4 weeks, for 3–6 sessions in total. The first few sessions are sometimes 2 weeks apart. Spacing them too closely can make your skin dry and sensitive, so we decide while watching how your skin responds.
07Can I get LaLa Peel if I have sensitive or acne-prone skin?
If your skin has small bumps or minor breakouts, LaLa Peel can be planned along with your care. If pus-filled pimples are widespread or your face often flushes red, we first address the cause with medical treatment. If you are taking an oral acne medication such as isotretinoin, be sure to tell us in advance.
08How are LaLa Peel, Aqua Peel, and black peel different?
LaLa Peel is a peel in which an LHA solution is applied to the face and then wiped off. Black Peel Care also applies a peeling agent, but it uses fermented black vinegar and salicylic acid. Aqua Peel Care uses a suction tip to draw out debris at pore openings while solution flows. Which suits you is chosen based on your skin texture and amount of sebum.
09Can I get LaLa Peel on the same day as a laser or other care?
Whether to combine them on the same day depends on the type of treatment and your skin that day. If you have recently had laser, injection, or peel treatments, please tell us along with the dates. We set the order and intervals accordingly.
10Can I get LaLa Peel at a dermatology clinic near Apgujeong Station?
DM Dermatology is at 158 Apgujeong-ro (579-1 Sinsa-dong), Gangnam-gu, Seoul, on the 4th floor. It is a 2-minute walk from Apgujeong Station (Line 3) Exit 5. On your first visit, we first ask about any oral or topical medications and recent treatments.
CONSULTATION
Consultation comes first
Before any treatment is chosen, a board-certified dermatologist checks your skin in person.
DM Dermatology, 4F, 579-1 Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
From Apgujeong Station (Line 3) Exit 5, walk straight for 50 m. 4th floor of the A Twosome Place building
- Weekdays
- am 10:00 - pm 07:00
- Saturday
- am 10:00 - pm 04:30
- Lunch break
- pm 01:00 - pm 02:00
- Sun & holidays
- By appointment only
- Subway
3Apgujeong StationExit 5
Walk straight for 50 m · 2 min on foot · 4th floor of the A Twosome Place building
- Bus
Apgujeong Station Exit 4 · Exit 32310523429
Blue bus147 · 148 · 240 · 463 · 343Green bus4211
Kwanglim Church · Hyundai High School2310323104
Blue bus143 · 240 · 345 · 472Green bus3011 · 4312 · 4318
- By car
Search in your navigation app158 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu디엠피부과의원
Use the building’s underground parking · Parking available in the building
