Download Glycolic Acid Facial Peels Glycolic acid is a natural substance

Glycolic Acid Facial Peels
Glycolic acid is a natural substance derived from sugar cane, apples, grapes, and citrus fruits. It is the
smallest and simplest of a group of naturally occurring substances called alpha hydroxy acids. We have
known for centuries that these "fruit acids" are very effective as moisturizers and skin fresheners. In
fact, women of ancient Rome, and ladies of the French Court used aged wine containing tartaric acid to
improve their skin. Over the last 20 years, scientific research has documented the medical benefits of
glycolic acids and helped to create better formulations of these glycolic products. We now use them to
treat acne, dry skin, fine wrinkles, and sun damaged, weathered skin as well as blotchy pigmentation.
How Glycolic Acid Works: Glycolic acids decrease the "glue" that holds dead cells on the surface of the
skin. This allows some dead cells to drop away, leaving behind a layer of smoother, softer skin. Glycolic
acid also stimulates the skin to make new collagen fibers that help to improve wrinkling and the effects
of sun damage. In addition, glycolic acids help to dissolve the material that clogs pores allowing the pore
to drain better thus decreasing the tendency for acne lesions to form.
There are several excellent products containing glycolic acids. They include cleansers, astringents,
creams, lotions and gels. Some products are formulated for home use and others are to be used only
under a physician’s supervision. Most people Initially notice a softer and smoother skin within 2 to 3
weeks. However, it will take several months of continued daily use of glycolic acid to achieve the best
results. Additional use of topical retinoids augments the improvement. Each individual reacts differently
to this treatment regimen and needs to be monitored by well-trained professionals knowledgeable in
basic science of skin.
Why Glycolic Acid Works: The thick layer of dead cells on the skin surface may give the complexion a
rough, dull appearance. When these cells are removed, they expose a layer of fresh new cells with a
smoother texture, and a more uniform color. Furthermore, continued use of glycolic acid appears to
stimulate new cell growth. Recent studies show that over time, this stimulation of cell growth can cause
new collagen fibers to grow in the upper layers of the dermis, the layer most sensitive to the aging
effects of the sun.
The Glycolic Acid Treatment: In our skin rejuvenation treatments, we apply a solution containing a high
concentration of glycolic acid to your skin for several minutes, carefully monitoring your skin’s response.
We may, if needed, also mechanically remove the top layers of skin by a process called dermaplaning,
also referred to as a microdermabrasion. This dermaplaning is complimentary and performed only as
needed. For more information about dermaplaning, please refer to our section on microdermabrasion.
Glycolic acid rejuvenation treatments are different from other chemical facial peels in that they can
usually be performed without having to miss any time from work. But, because they are gentler than
chemical peels like trichloracetic acid or phenol peels, it takes usually 4-6 treatments at three to four
week intervals to achieve the desired effect. This initial series of glycolic treatments will speed up the
improvement process in your skin’s appearance that is then maintained by the use of home product.
All body areas appear to respond well to treatment with glycolic acid; however, the arms, hands, neck
and chest all improve at a slower rate than the face. Many patients choose to treat these areas more
aggressively by using stronger products containing higher concentrations of glycolic acid. While no
procedure is free of the risks of side effects, most patients are delighted with the outcome, and the risks
are fewer than with most other chemical or surgical procedures.
The use of glycolic acid products usually does not cause sun sensitivity. With proper guidance, most
people can use these products with little or none of the redness, irritation or flaking that may be seen
with Retin A, for example. In addition, recent studies suggest that using glycolic acid may make your skin
less sensitive to other chemicals. Because ultraviolet light is the leading cause of skin aging and
wrinkling, you should always use sun protection as part of your skin care regimen.
Unlike many other stronger and deeper peels, those done with glycolic acid usually do not permanently
lighten the skin. Therefore, they can normally be safely performed on patients with darker skin types,
including Hispanics, Asians and African Americans.
Not all glycolic products are equal. Glycolic acids are available in many over the counter preparations in
concentrations far below what we have found to provide the best results, and some beauty consultants
will offer similar facial treatments, again, at lower concentrations than those used under medical
supervision. (Aestheticians and cosmeticians are prohibited by most state laws from autonomously
using glycolic at higher concentrations). With Internet marketing, it is important to know that the
formulations being sold are based on valid research, and the company selling the products, have trained
professionals available to help you in the event of side effects. Because there are so many glycolic
products on the market, it is also important to understand the formulation labels to be sure the total
content of unbuffered glycolic acid (free acid) is at a level that will be effective, and use of high
concentrations of unbuffered glycolic should always be used under medical supervision—no exceptions.
Education is the key. Part of our initial glycolic consultation involves educating you regarding glycolic
acid and products containing glycolic acid. With this information, you can choose the most effective
products from any supplier and avoid wasting time and money on ingredients that don’t work or are
overpriced. Our staff is thoroughly trained and supervised by Dr. Maeyens in the safe and proper use of
glycolic acid, and meticulously briefed by the manufacturers as well on the research behind the product
and the fundamental chemical reactions underlying the treatment. In addition, the staff stays well
informed with the most up to date information, and is experienced in keeping side effects to an absolute
minimum. Most importantly of all, the glycolic acid treatments are integrated into a complete skin care
program tailored specifically for you, addressing both medical and cosmetic aspects of your rejuvenation
program.