Glycolic Acid Peel

Also known as: glycolic peel, glycolic acid chemical peel, alpha hydroxy acid peel, aha peel, glycolic facial peel, medical glycolic peel, professional glycolic peel, superficial glycolic peel

Skin Rejuvenation & Resurfacing

AI Aesthetician Summary

Glycolic Acid Peels are among the most popular and well-established chemical peel treatments in dermatology and aesthetic medicine. As the most common alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) peel, also known as fruit-acid peels, glycolic acid peels utilize naturally-derived acids to effectively exfoliate and rejuv...

Treatment Details

Targets

Concerns:Pigmentation Acne Scarring Acne Wrinkles Dull Skin Sun Damage Large Pores

Areas:Cheek, Chin, Forehead, Neck, Nose, Arm, Back, Chest, Hand, Calf, Foot, Thigh

Tissues:Skin (Epidermis, Dermis)

Longevity:3-6 Months

How it Works

Duration:30 minutes

Anesthesia:None

Pain Level:Mild

Techniques:Topical

Multiple Sessions:Yes

Session Notes:A series of 3-6 treatments spaced 2-4 weeks apart is commonly recommended for optimal and cumulative results. Maintenance treatments can be performed every 2-3 months thereafter.

Post Treatment

Downtime:3 days

Post-care:Avoid sun exposure and use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily for at least one to two weeks. Cleanse gently with a mild cleanser and cool water, moisturize frequently, and do not pick or scrub flaking skin. Refrain from using other exfoliants, retinoids, and engaging in strenuous exercise or excessive heat for several days to a week as advised by your practitioner.

Risks:Common side effects include temporary redness, stinging, mild swelling, dryness, flaking, peeling, crusting, and scabbing. Less common risks are prolonged redness, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, increased sun sensitivity, infection, reactivation of herpes simplex, scarring, keloid formation, and chemical burns.

Additional Information

Invasiveness:Minimally Invasive

Specialty:Medical Spa

Research