Glycolic acid treatments are popular because they help two of the most common skin complaints: They help to clear acne and diminish the signs of aging. Glycolic acid, the most powerful of all the alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), is a more natural, gentle and less expensive approach than microdermabrasion or botox, for example. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), various treatments may be combined, and a dermatologist can create an individualized plan that may include a mixture of glycolic acid peels, other medications, procedures or topical vitamins such as A, C or E. There are also over-the-counter products such as cleansers, toners and peels that contain glycolic acid---just in a less concentrated version than you may get from a dermatologist visit.
How It Works
Glycolic acid works by causing the top layers of the skin to lightly peel, revealing more refined, less wrinkled skin, according to the AAD. Glycolic acid is a natural compound derived from sugarcane and is the most beneficial of the AHAs, according to the Acnedoctor.com website. Because of its ability to speed turnover of skin cells, glycolic acid may be helpful for a multitude of issues, including blackheads and whiteheads, aging skin, psoriasis, eczema, dry skin, age spots and other conditions, the website states. The AAD also recommends using a series of glycolic peels for treating mild scaring, as well as sun spots, age spots, freckles and blotchy skin. Overall, the treated skin should have a refreshed texture and better overall color.
Where to Look
According to the information provided by the Skincare Resource Center, glycolic acid can be found in hundreds of facial cleansers, moisturizers, masks, serums and other products. It's especially popular for the treatment of wrinkles. These kinds of products contain a lower concentration of the product than you would find in a glycolic peel in a dermatologist's office, which can run up to 80 percent concentration.
At Home
The Skin Care Resource Center recommends that those with sensitive skin begin with products containing lower glycolic concentrations and work up in order to minimize skin irritation. The benefit of at-home treatments is that you can increase concentrations of the fruit acid at your own pace, therefore diminishing any minor side effects like redness and peeling.
At the Office
A peel at a dermatologist's office will likely cause a warm, slightly stinging sensation for about five minutes during the procedure. In the event that the stinging continues afterward, a mild painkiller can be taken. Following that, a superficial peel "usually produces redness, which is followed by scaling that lasts three to five days," states the AAD. Rarely, there is an extended period of redness or skin color change. However, these side effects are less of an inconvenience than most procedures, and generally speaking, no time off is needed for the peel or a series of them.
Important Caveat
Since these types of peels reveal new, fresh skin, it is critical to use a broad spectrum sunscreen after the procedure. Avoid long periods in the sun, especially directly afterward. Take care of your skin by moisturizing and wearing a good sunblock following the use of any glycolic products.
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