Glycolic Acid Peel
What is a Glycolic Acid Peel?
Glycolic acid is an Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) which naturally occurs in sugar cane, it has the smallest molecular size of all the AHA’s allowing it to better penetrate the skin. Lactic Acid is derived from milk and whilst it is excellent at resurfacing the skin it also increases skin’s moisture levels. It is applied to the skin in various strengths ranging from 20-70% for varying time frames depending on the desired result and skins response. It loosens the thickened surface layers that appear as dry, rough, scaly skin and stimulates the production of collagen in the deeper layers. As the uppermost layers are sloughed away, a smoother textured and healthier skin is revealed. Glycolic peels are used to treat mild sun damage, pigmentation and loss of elasticity.
What are the advantages of having a series of Glycolic peels?
- Helps to break down the cross linkages between aging skin cells
- Speeds up the cell turn over rate
- Helps stimulate collagen production and other skin molecules to produce plumper, more even skin
- Rejuvenated skin has a more youthful glowing appearance
- Fine lines may be reduced
- Age spots lightened
- General pigmentation problems may be reduced
- Acne improved and large pores become less prominent
Who are the best candidates for glycolic/lactic peels?
- Both men and women of all ages
- All skin types showing signs of aging or acne
- Good for people who do not need or feel ready for deeper resurfacing
- Lower strength peels are good for those people who do not want any visible peeling
How many treatments will I need?
4-6 peels at weekly intervals are recommended for noticeable improvements. More or less may be required depending on the condition being treated, your desired results, the strength of the peels and home skin care regimen. Once you have achieved your desired results, maintenance peels are recommended at 2-3 monthly intervals combined with a daily AHA skin care regime to retain the benefits. The ongoing skin care program uses advanced skin care products that contain a therapeutic level of AHA’s at an active pH and other active ingredients.
The Procedure
The peel itself only takes between 10-20 minutes. You will probably experience a tingling, itchy sensation for a few minutes when the peel is applied and the stronger solutions sting a little.
Recovery
Most patients go straight back to their normal activities, although it is best not to apply make-up for around 3 hours. Some patients find they may experience some redness after the peel (especially those with sensitive skin or having longer/stronger duration peels). After a few days, most patients experience some flaking of the skin, some even have significant skin peeling. The effectiveness of the peel is not determined by the extent of visible peeling.
Patient After-Care for Superficial Peels
Now that you’ve had your first peel, there are a few simple steps for after care that you will need to follow:
Avoid the use of moisturizers or lotions containing active ingredients such as retinol, glycolic acids, perfumes and colors until your skin is no longer sensitive. Please use the moisturizer supplied to you for this time frame. Thereafter, continue with your usual moisturizes unless advised otherwise.
Your skin will be a little more sensitive to the sun so keep sun exposure to a minimum. Please wear a hat and sunscreen daily. This should be a regular routine for you anyway!
Apply foundation as you wish.
Slight crusting and/or scabbing in particular areas may develop. If so, please do not rub or pick the skin as this may lead to a scar.
If you have any concerns or questions please call the office.
Expected changes over the next 7 to 14 days include:
- Day 1 to 3 – Tight, dry skin with mild to moderate redness and sensitivity
- Day 2 to 5 – Areas of darkened skin (this is the old skin in preparation to peel)
- Day 3 to 7 – Slight flaking or peeling lasting 2 to 5 days