FAQs Glycolic Acid Peels

These mild chemical peels improve the texture and normalize the color of the skin through exfoliation.
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 due to the chemical exfoliation of the glycolic acid.

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.

Because glycolic peels are superficial, and thus safer than other types of chemical peels, improvement is gradual. While a single peel will 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.

Daily use of glycolic acid products such as SkinMedica AHA/BHA Cream, 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.

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, or have an active infection in the treatment area.

Pre-Treatment Instructions

1. Discontinue using self-tanners, masks, scrubs or exfoliating agents for at least 2 days prior to the peel.
2. Discontinue alpha-hydroxy acid (glycolic cream), retinol, Retin A, Renova, Tazorac or Differin products 2 days before peel.
3. Do not wax facial hair for 2 days before peel.
4. Inform your provider ifyou have cold sores (or fever blisters) anywhere on the face prior to your appointment, or if you are prone to them.
5. Avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least a week prior to your peel.

Post-Treatment Instructions

1. Avoid exercise and sweating (e.g. sauna) for a few hours after the procedure.
2. You may use makeup immediately, but apply very gently without traumatizing the skin. Do not use scrubs or rub your face with a wash cloth when removing makeup.
3. Use sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater (preferably containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide) during the week following the peel. Strictly avoid tanning, and sun exposure which can cause darkening in the treated skin.
4. Alpha-hydroxy acid, retinol, Retin A, Renova, or Differin may be resumed 2 days after your peel, or when all redness has resolved. During this time, use a fragrance free moisturizer (e.g. SkinMedica Replenish Hydrating cream or Elta MD Barrier Renewal Complex) 1- 2 times a day.
5. Do notwax or use bleach or depilatory creams for at least a week after the peel.

*Individual Results May Vary*