Glycolic Peel

The skin is the largest organ in our body. Every day thousands of cells die and are replaced with new cells from beneath the skin. As we age, this process begins to slow down, and our skin may have a less refined complexion. Fine lines, dark blotches and other signs of sun damage and aging begin to appear.

Chemical peels have been used for decades to create an even and controlled shedding of damaged skin cells. The procedure involves the application of a solution to the skin to remove dead skin cells and stimulate the production of new cells. It is commonly used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, uneven pigmentation, shallow acne scars, age spots, freckling, and melasma (dark pigmentation of the face in women who are on the birth control pill or who are pregnant).Ingredients

Glycolic acid is commonly found in many skin care products in small concentrations (8-15%). Glycolic acid as a peeling agent is usually a concentration of 30% to 70%. Patients just starting treatments begin at a lower concentration.

The amount of improvement depends on the patient’s skin. The ideal skin type is best described as fair Nordic skin that has had very little exposure to the sun. Maximal improvement generally occurs after 4-6 glycolic peels usually given at 1 to 2 week intervals.Preparing For Your Chemical Peel
Patients are assessed by the physician to review their medical history (history of viral infections, sensitivity of the sun, prior skin treatments, etc.), the underlying skin condition and type, to determine if they are good candidates for a peel. The appropriate peel solution is then chosen, and patients are advised to start a mild form of glycolic acid two weeks prior to the peel treatment.

Risks associated with Glycolic peels are extremely low. However, they do include itching, scarring, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, and mild skin irritation.

Treatment

Most chemical peels are performed as outpatient procedures in the clinic and last thirty to sixty minutes. The area of treatment is first cleansed with an anti-greasing solution. As the chemical solution is applied, a mild burning/stinging sensation develops. This may last for 3 to 5 minutes, until the chemical is neutralized. Immediately after the procedure, you may feel like you have a light sunburn. The skin may feel somewhat tight as peeling occurs during the next 2 to 5 days. Although bandages are not worn, you will have to avoid exposure to excessive wind, sun, heat, or cold during this time. It is highly recommended to use a sunblock after the treatment. After the peeling occurs, a very faint pinkness will be apparent. If you have a strong history of recurrent facial herpes simplex, a glycolic peel may not be right for you.

The Results

Patients are able to leave the clinic with a fresh and rejuvenated appearance. There is no significant down time with this procedure, and it can be repeated with higher concentrations at 2-week intervals. Thousands of people undergo chemical peels each year and are delighted with the results. The amount of improvement is individual and depends on the initial condition of the patients skin.