Glycolic acid peels slough away the upper layer of dead skin cells, allowing anti-aging skin benefits. It is a mild chemical peel that is generally applied to the face, but is also used to improve skin care appearance of the hands, upper chest, neck and arms.
Glycolic peels treat pigmentation problems, removes freckles and acne, and treats sun-damage. It can also stimulate the production of new collagen, improving skin texture. Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from fruit and sugar cane.
Glycolic Peel Procedure
The glycolic peel process only takes about twenty minutes. The patient’s face is first washed and cleansed, and then the glycolic acid solution is applied for several minutes. The gylcolic peel will sting, so an over-the-counter painkiller is recommended before the treatment begins.
Finally, the glycolic peel is neutralized with an alkaline substance such as sodium bicarbonate or washed away with water. When the treatment is complete, the skin will appear to be pinkish in color.
Best Candidates for Glycolic Acid Chemical Peels
Glycolic acid peels are ideal for individuals with mild to moderate skin concerns such as dullness, uneven pigmentation, fine lines, or acne-prone skin. Because it is a gentle alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), it is generally well tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin.
However, those with extremely sensitive or reactive skin, active eczema, rosacea, or open wounds should consult a dermatologist before undergoing this chemical exfoliation.
Glycolic acid is especially effective for improving skin care on sun-damaged areas and can be a great alternative to more aggressive treatments like deep peels or laser resurfacing.
How Often Should You Get a Glycolic Peel?
The frequency of glycolic acid peels depends on your skin type and the specific concerns being addressed. For best results, dermatologists often recommend a series of treatments spaced about two to four weeks apart.
Most patients see noticeable improvements in skin texture, tone, and clarity after three to six sessions. Maintenance peels can then be done every few months.
Regular glycolic peels help keep the skin exfoliated and refreshed, making them a popular choice for those seeking non-invasive anti-aging treatments.
Cost of Glycolic Peel
The cost is variable and depends on the depth of the glycolic peel and how many peels are necessary. Cost per glycolic peel can range from hundreds to a thousand dollars. On the average, cost is about $375.
Side Effects
Chemical peel procedures often have few side effects other than a minimal risk of complication and the expected peeling process. However, in less than 2% of those who have endured the experience, complications have included scarring, a re-activation of cold sores, and permanent or temporary changes in the color of the skin.
Prior to a glycolic peel, a small area can be tested if there are any concerns about the risks. To prevent cold sores from developing, medications can be prescribed.
Aftercare
Recovery time is relatively short. Patients will begin to peel lightly for several days. Protecting the treated area from the sun by staying indoors, or by using a sunscreen cream, will help immensely. All normal activities can resume, and within one week, the skin will appear younger and clearer.
It is important to remember that glycolic peels cannot remove tiny broken blood vessels on the face or nose, cannot reduce large pore size, and will not tighten sagging skin. They also cannot remove deep scars, but they can eliminate small scars.
Glycolic peels are also effective in erasing fine lines around the mouth and under the eyes. They can smooth rough skin and create a more even skin tone by lightening freckles, sun or age spots, and blotches caused by certain medications such as birth control pills.