Glycolic Peel Procedures
A glycolic peel procedure is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure performed to yield younger looking, radiant skin. Glycolic peels are in the family of chemical peels, but are of the mildest type. Performed by dermatologists and plastic surgeons, glycolic peels are an anti-aging solution to restore and rejuvenate the facial skin. Does this Spark an idea?
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Glycolic Acid
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Glycolic peels use glycolic acid as the star ingredient in the peel's chemical solution. Also called hydroxyacetic acid, glycolic acid is a water-soluble, odorless, colorless alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. Due of its ability to penetrate the skin, glycolic acid is used in many skin care products in addition to cosmetic chemical peel treatments. It is also a preferred ingredient for skin resurfacing because it is the smallest molecular-sized AHA. Dermatologists use glycolic acid in concentrations of 20 percent to 80 percent.
How A Glycolic Peel Works
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The penultimate goal of the glycolic peel is to peel off the damaged outermost skin layers to reveal a fresh layer of skin that is formed by healthier cells beneath. the glycolic acid loosens the substance that binds the damaged outer skin cells together, and unblocks follicles to diminish and prevent acne. The unhealthy layer is sloughed off. Beneath the outer layer, the glycolic acid stimulates collagen and elastin production, to strengthen the skin and restore its vitality. This process reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and discoloration, such as age spots, and yields smoother, younger-looking skin.
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Candidates
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The glycolic peel is the mildest of all chemical peel options, so its candidates have a wider range of age and skin condition than stronger peels, like the phenol peel. Unevenness in skin tone and texture are common of glycolic peel candidates. Candidates often show signs of premature aging, or have skin that already exhibits wrinkles and sun damage. Excessive blackheads, large visible pores, acne and acne scars, blotchiness and various forms of hyperpigmentation are lightly treated with glycolic peels. Deep skin conditions may require more aggressive chemical peels. Many patients show mildly uneven color and texture, and simply seek to restore radiance and suppleness in the skin. Candidates with sensitive skin must consult a dermatologist.
Benefits
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The glycolic peel can yield dramatic visible changes without the skin irritation and recovery time required of other chemical peels. Fine lines and mild wrinkles are visibly diminished, as are skin discoloration irregularities. The unhealthy cells are gone, and the skin is left smooth and even. Overall, the result is a more youthful appearance.
In-Session Procedure
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Glycolic peels don't require an anesthetic, and are typically painless. Once the patient is in a relaxed position, the chemical solution is applied to the cleansed face, and left on for 10 to 15 minutes. At most, the patient might experience a slight tingling sensation on the skin. The solution is then peeled off, usually with a neutralizing lotion. A special moisturizer is applied to the skin. The patient can then return to normal daily activities.
Side Effects
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A glycolic peel is the gentlest of chemical peels, with minimal side effects. The skin may experience mild irritation, with redness and itchiness, which will last two or three days at most.
All treated skin will be significantly more sensitive to sun exposure. The "new" healthy skin is substantially more prone to sun damage, and patients must avoid the sun as much as possible for a few weeks after treatment, and apply a high strength sunscreen daily.
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