Physician Strength Glycolic Acid Peels

What Will Glycolic Acid Peels do For my Skin?

These mild chemical peels improve the texture and normalize the color of the skin through exfoliation, with excellent results in many skin conditions. Age spots, dark patches (melasma), and discoloration from acne are greatly improved. Fine lines are smoothed. Sallow tones and lifeless texture are replaced by a healthy glow. Breakouts and clogged pores are reduced, even in patients with difficult to treat acne.

Chemical Peels Wellesley, Ma

How is the Peel Performed?

After cleansing, we apply a mild glycolic solution (alpha-hydroxy acid derived from sugar cane). Cool air from a fan will counteract the mild burning or stinging that may occur during this several minute period. You will be monitored carefully during the entire process, and a neutralizing spray will be used to stop the treatment. A protective moisturizer is then applied. The entire process takes only 10 minutes.

Consultations Are Available Now

The first step to get your questions answered and to find out which treatment option is best for you is to meet with one of our trusted providers at Krauss Dermatology for an in-person consultation.

Simply fill out the form on this page, and one of our trusted staff members will reach out to you promptly to schedule your consultation.

How Many Peels Will I Need?

Because glycolic peels are superficial, and thus safer than other types of chemical peels, improvement is gradual. While a single peel will firm and freshen the skin, leaving a healthy glow, most patients should plan on a series of 5-6 peels to achieve their long-term goals. The treatments can be performed at 3 to 4-week intervals, gradually using higher strengths as the skin builds tolerance. Results are generally long-lasting, although some patients may find an occasional peel every 3 to 6 months helps to maintain beneficial effects. Unfortunately, glycolic peels are not covered by insurance.

Do I Need to Use Any Special Products?

Daily use of glycolic acid products is recommended to prepare the skin for the procedure and maintain results. We recommend the use of an 8-20% glycolic acid cream for at least 2 weeks prior to the first peel. The glycolic cream and Retin A/Renova creams if used must be stopped 2 days prior to each peel. At all times, SPF 30 or greater sunscreen (preferably containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide) should be worn outdoors to maintain improvement and avoid sunburn and discoloration.

What Are The Risks?

Most people respond to a glycolic peel with only mild redness lasting several days. Adverse reactions such as peeling, scabbing, infection, recurrence of cold sores, and sensitivity to wind and sun are uncommon but possible. Rarely, areas of persistent darkening or lightening of the skin may occur, but this risk can be minimized by careful sun protection after the peel. We do not perform glycolic peels on patients who have used the acne medicine Accutane during the prior 6 months.

Take the First Step – Request A Consultation

Please fill out the form on this page to request a consultation and one of our knowledgeable medical staff members at Krauss Dermatology will reach out to you promptly. You can also call our Wellesley, MA office directly to schedule – (781) 416-3500.

Krauss Dermatology serves the greater Boston area.

*Individual Results May Vary*