Glycolic Peel Recovery

A glycolic peel can make your imperfections less noticeable.

Chemical peels are aesthetic procedures that dissolve the outer layers of skin and encourage new, smoother tissue to emerge. They can be used to remove imperfections, such as wrinkles, fine lines, acne, acne scars, and age spots. There are a few different types of chemical peels; the glycolic peel is one type and it is a mild chemical peel with a relatively short recovery time.

Glycolic Peel

A glycolic peel uses glycolic acid, which is extracted from sugar cane, to remove upper skin layers and reveal smoother skin. Glycolic acid peels are popular because they are effective and have minimum side effects. A typical glycolic peel uses a glycolic acid concentration of between 20 percent and 80 percent. Stronger concentrations will dissolve more tissue, create more dramatic improvements, and have longer recovery times. Glycolic peels can reduce the appearance of fine lines, skin discolorations, dry patches, acne and acne scars.

Before the Procedure

Before the procedure, you should consult with your physician. She will recommend you stop any prescription treatment creams such as vitamin A acid or topical acne creams at least three days before the glycolic peel.

Recovery

A glycolic peel has low risks and a relatively short recovery period. After a glycolic peel, your skin will be red and peeling for about 24 hours. Your skin will be dry for four to five days after the procedure, and you will need to apply moisturizer to the affected area. You will be more sensitive to sunlight for a few days after the procedure, and you should wear a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for several weeks to avoid sunburn.

After the Procedure

Three days after the glycolic peel, you can resume use of your prescription treatment creams. You may also start using glycolic acid maintenance products, which contains low concentrations of glycolic acid, to complement the peel. If you like the results of the glycolic peel, you may consider undergoing the procedure regularly to maintain your skin's smoothness.

Side Effects

Side effects of a glycolic peel occur rarely, and, even when they occur, they are usually mild. The procedure typically takes 20 minutes, and most individuals can return to their regular activities immediately after. However, some people should not get a glycolic peel, for example those using acne prescription drug Accutane or those with active cold sores. Check with your dermatologist to find out if a glycolic peel is suitable for you.

References

• Chemical Peel: Skin Peels
• Chemical Peel: Glycolic Acid Peels
• The Best Kept Secret: Clearing Up the Confusion About Skin Care Choices