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Glycolic Acid Peel
Acidic solutions have been used for decades to treat a variety of skin conditions. Many of these solutions consist of organic acids and are referred to as alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), derived from fruit and milk sugars. One of the most widely used AHA is glycolic acid, a naturally occurring AHA from sugarcane, canteloupe, pineapple, grapes, and beets. The AHAs used most often in cosmetics are glycolic acid and lactic acid.
Purpose of Glycolic Acid Peel
It's supposed ability to reduce fine wrinkles, spots, and other signs of aging and sun-damaged skin. Chemical peels containing 20 to 70 percent glycolic acid have been used by dermatologists to treat acne, ichthyosis, warts, actinic keratosis, seborrheic keratoses, xerosis, and psoriasis. AHA's products sold to consumers have an AHA concentration of 10 percent or less. Glycolic acid concentrations over 10 percent is considered to be a hazardous material.
Treatment of Glycolic Acid Peel
A glycolic acid peel removes skin cell layers by stripping them with mild acid. After the glycolic acid peel, the new skin layer that forms has a smoother look than the former. With the gentler acne scar removal procedures available today, the caustic acid peel is now rarely used.
Possible Side Effects and Risks of Glycolic Acid Peel
- Flaky skin
- Severe Redness
- Swelling (especially in the area of the eyes)
- Burning
- Irritation
- Bleeding
- Blistering
- Rash
- Itching
- Skin discoloration
- Sun sensitivity
- Pain
- Stinging
- Permanent scars
Cost of Glycolic Acid Peel
Approximately $200 to $300. Costs can vary. A light peel at a cosmetic center might cost approximately $30 to $50.
Important Reading...
"We are warning consumers about the use of skin peelers because they can cause serious injuries, particularly when not used under the supervision of a physician," said Commissioner David A. Kessler, M.D. Skin Peelers
"These are very, very popular products," Bailey says. "Very little about the process restricts their sale. And it's a somewhat alarming idea to put acids on the skin. It raises obvious safety questions." Alpha Hydroxy Acids for Skin Care - Smooth Sailing or Rough Seas?
References:
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
FDA Consumer
May 1999
www.cfsan.fda.gov
National Toxicology Program
United States Department of Health and Human Services
September 2007
http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov