Glycolic Acid & Hyperpigmentation
Glycolic acid is a commonly-used alpha-hydroxy acid for treating skin hyperpigmentation. Glycolic acid is one of the most effective and accessible treatment options for hyperpigmentation. Aestheticians may treat hyperpigmentation with a glycolic acid chemical peel, while over-the-counter treatments are available for at-home use. Hyperpigmentation is a fairly common occurrence, and can increase with age, hormonal fluctuations and skin scarring. A 2001 clinical study demonstrated glycolic acid, when used as a chemical peel, is very effective at reducing or eliminating hyperpigmentation. Does this Spark an idea?
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Hyperpigmentation
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Hyperpigmentation can occur with all types and shades of skin. Pregnancy and oral contraceptives are two of the main causes of hyperpigmentation, while post-healing acne scarring can also contribute dark spots. Any kind of skin wound or damage can ultimately lead to hyperpigmentation.
Glycolic Acid
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Glycolic acid is available in many different concentrations and acidity levels. The concentration selected should be contingent upon the needs of the individual using it: sensitive skin should be treated with low-concentration glycolic acid to avoid undue irritation. Glycolic acid will eliminate and reduce hyperpigmentation and photo damage (from sun exposure) on the skin, while thickening the dermis to lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
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Facial Treatments
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Chemical peels may contain only glycolic acid, or a combination of glycolic acid with other chemicals (including emollients, kojic acid, and others). The acid is applied either at-home or by an aesthetician, allowed to stay on the skin for a few minutes, and then removed. In the days following the peel, the skin typically becomes irritated and sheds its outer layers of skin (hence, "peel" to describe the treatment).
Effects of Glycolic Acid Treatment
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The skin will be dry and red while it sheds outer skin layers: cell turnover becomes more rapid, which results in improved skin texture and tone. Pigmentation also becomes more even. Improvement, though typically drastic, is also contingent on the strength of the acid applied, and the number of treatments used. In general, treatments should be repeated every 12 to 14 weeks until the desired effects are reached.
Other Glycolic Treatment Options
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Glycolic acid may be included in a variety of over-the-counter items to treat hyperpigmentation: gels, lotions, creams and washes are also available in addition to chemical peels. Because over-the-counter products have a lower concentration of glycolic acid, it can take longer for visible results: up to six months may be needed before marked improvement in hyperpigmentation. If unusually severe irritation or other side-effects occur, you should contact a dermatologist for a consultation.
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References
- Photo Credit skin care image by anna karwowska from Fotolia.com
