Safety of Glycolic Acid Peels at Home

Glycolic acid concentration determines safety of home peel kits

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), synthetically obtained from sugar cane and used for exfoliation. It is the most popular of the AHAs because it is the main ingredient in skin rejuvenation and anti-aging chemical face peels. Medical- and home-grade peels contain different concentrations of glycolic acid.

Concentration

Home glycolic peels have concentrations less than 10%, mild peels have concentrations around 30%, and medium peels use substances of higher concentrations. Glycolic peels, in general, are considered light peels when compared to other treatments like Trichloroacetic acid chemical peels which contain up to 50% TCA concentration and penetrate deeper into the skin.

Depth of Penetration

Chemical peels with deeper penetration have a higher risk of side effects. Light glycolic home peels, because of their low concentration and penetration, are potentially, less dangerous than other chemical peels.

Results

After a home chemical peel, one can expect light flaking of the skin because the glycolic acid penetrates the upper layers, detaching damaged cells by destroying their connection to tissue, according to Skinabrasion.net. The cells are then easily removed with water or cleanser, exposing the newer, smoother, more even skin.

Negative Side Effects

When performed correctly, the home glycolic peel may result in mild itching and redness. Stinging, tightness, crustiness, the feeling of being sunburned, and irritation are common side effects of chemical peels. These may last days after the treatment.

Risks

Skin is extremely sensitive to the sun after a glycolic peel and sunscreens with a high SPF are necessary to protect the skin from sunburn during the months that follow. More serious side effects to an improperly-administered peel or unsafe concentration levels are infection and scarring.

References

• SkinAbrasion.net: Chemical Peeling With Glycolic Acid
• Onae Chemical Skin Peels