Glycolic Peel

Soften fine lines and reveal fresher skin with a more even skin tone and texture. Glycolic acid is a natural alpha-hydroxy acid which provides a gentle, superficial peel of the skin and is an excellent introductory peel for all skin tones. In addition to its’ anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, glycolic peels provide excellent skin exfoliating results. Glycolic acid peels are among the most used AHA peels as they are well suited to all skin types. Glycolic acid chemical peeling treatments are tailored to the individual’s skin needs and their specific skin type. The intensity of the peel determines its results. Higher concentrations of glycolic acid provide more dramatic and intensive skin changes. The percentage of glycolic acid contained in the solution determines how deeply it can penetrate the skin’s layers. Glycolic acid peel is usually used in light to medium strength, but its concentration can be increased for deep peels as well. Dr Hudson will determine the necessary concentration of acid required to achieve the client’s desired results.

Frequent glycolic acid peels

Brighten skin tone

Improve the appearance of UV sun damaged skin

Rejuvenate a tired and dull complexion

Diminish the size of enlarged skin pores

Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Treat dark spots and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Stimulate collagen production within the skin

Increase the rate of cellular skin renewal

Smooth rough skin

Treat blemishes and mild acne

Promote the removal of blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples from the skin

Improve the appearance of acne scarred skin

Regulates the balance for those suffering from oily and acne prone skin

Treat mild rosacea, and melasma

Reduce the occurrence of ingrown hairs involving the face and body

Improve the appearance of white stretch marks

How it works

Glycolic acid peels remove dead skin cells and cellular debris. Because glycolic acid is a small molecule, it readily penetrates into the skin, removing the lipid that binds dead skin cells together. Glycolic acid loosens and lifts excess oil from hair follicles roots, which is responsible for its response in acne treatment. It is also believed that glycolic acid suppresses the production of melanin. Trauma to the skin can result in the production of excess melanin, which causes dark spots referred to as postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. These changes can result from several causes, including the overuse of chemical products, acne, and eczema. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation typically resolves following the application of a series of six to eight glycolic treatments.

The percentage of glycolic acid present within the peel determines the depth of
penetration.

Light Glycolic Acid Peel
Using concentrations of 20-30% glycolic acid provides a superficial peel. These concentrations are left on the skin for just around 2 minutes. Because it is so mild, it does not require any downtime. Light glycolic acid peels are ideal for skin rejuvenation and may be sufficient to treat mild hyperpigmentation. Light glycolic peels are a great option for patients with darker skin tones as they are more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that can often be caused by high-intensity peels.

Medium Glycolic Acid Peel
These are performed with a slightly higher concentration of glycolic acid, typically
between 35-50% and are left on the skin a bit longer – for up to 5 minutes. Here,
the acid is able to penetrate the papillary dermis (the layer that sits just below the
epidermis, the first skin layer). The medium-depth peel is excellent for treating
more severe cases of hyperpigmentation and very textured skin. This intensity,
however, requires some downtime (a week or so) and carries more commitment
regarding the recovery process.

Deep Glycolic Acid Peel
Glycolic peels of concentrations that are as high as 70% can be used to perform
deep peels. Deep peels are serious procedures. For deep exfoliation, the solution is
left on the face for up to 15 minutes, so it can penetrate through to the deepest
layer of the dermis, the reticular dermis. This type of peeling is more aggressive
and is reserved for more serious cases of scarring, wrinkles, and sometimes
precancerous growths. Deep glycolic peels require the most downtime – requiring
up to 2 weeks during which you need to follow quite a rigorous aftercare regimen.

faqs

What to expect during a glycolic peel treatment?

During a glycolic peel treatment, the skin will initially be cleansed and prepped. , A glycolic peel solution will then be painted onto the skin surface using a cotton applicator swab. Based on the concentration of the glycolic acid used, the peel will be left on the skin for a few minutes. Once the peel is applied and begins drying, you may feel a burning or tingling sensation due to its high acidic chemical composition Once Dr Hudson or the aesthetician has established that a sufficient amount of the epidermis has been removed, the glycolic peel will be neutralized and washed away with cold cool water.

What to expect following a peel?

Normally, the skin will appear pink to red in color following a glycolic peel. As your skin adjusts to this peel, this side effect tends to disappear. Most individuals resume normal activities immediately following the chemical peel. For the next couple of days, the skin will remain pink, and the surface layer of the skin will peel although the peel may not be visible. Any redness resolves gradually within a few days. There is minimal downtime following a glycolic peel. Most individuals resume normal activities immediately following the chemical peel. The results of a glycolic acid peel will develop over 14 days as skin heals. Individuals should take care to limit sun exposure, use sunscreen, and practice regular skin care for the first few days after treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

For best results, a total of six peels each spaced four weeks apart are recommended to achieve maximal results. Maintenance treatments can then be performed every six months.