Example 12
The primary variable investigated was the concentration of lactic acid and/or glycolic acid necessary to create a silk solution of a desired pH. In order to determine the relationship between concentration in silk and pH, 2% silk solutions (60 minute boil, 25 kDA) were titrated with glycolic and lactic acid and tested for pH with pH strips. See the following titration s/formulations below:
A peel of the present disclosure can have a % silk ranging from about 0.5% to about 8%. The pH of a peel of the present disclosure can be adjusted with varying quantities of lactic and glycolic acid. Peels can also be made with lactic acid only or glycolic acid only. A peel of the present disclosure can be clear/white in color. A peel of the present disclosure can have a gel consistency that is easily spread and absorbed by the skin. A peel of the present disclosure does not brown or change colors.
In an embodiment, a chemical peel of the present disclosure can be applied weekly to reveal healthy, vibrant skin. In an embodiment, a chemical peel of the present disclosure can be applied weekly to diminish fine lines. In an embodiment, a chemical peel of the present disclosure can be applied weekly to firm the skin.
Each formulation (after titration, if applicable) was applied as a liquid and as a gel and observed for look and feel. Peels of pH=4 (Lactic Acid Peel 2, Glycolic Acid peel 2) resulted in a minimal burning feeling after a few minutes of application, while peels of pH=˜2 (Lactic Acid Peel 1, Glycolic Acid Peel 1, Lactic/Glycolic Acid Peel) caused a slightly more intense burning feel. Little difference in degree of burning was felt between liquid and gel other than that the burning sensation was more delayed in the gel form. PH was maintained in the gel form and was confirmed by using a pH strip.
Glycolic acid and lactic acid are both alpha hydroxy acids (AHA's) that are among the most commonly used peels for superficial peeling (outermost skin layer peeling). Chemical peels are intended to burn the top layers of the skin in a controlled manner, to remove superficial dermal layers and dead skin in order to improve appearance. AHAs are common in chemical peels due to low risk of adverse reactions and high control of strength (control pH and time applied). Glycolic acid is most commonly used and has a very small molecular size, enabling deep penetration into the epidermis. Lactic acid is another commonly used AHA and offers a more gentle peel with higher control due to its larger molecular size. Any number of chemicals known in the art that lower pH and are physical exfoliates can be used in place of AHAs.
