Glycolic Acid Peels

First popularized in the 1990's, glycolic acid peels are now a basic staple in skin rejuvenation. Glycolic acid peels are a form of superficial skin exfoliation which may be done on a regular basis to help give brighter, smoother skin. At Q Esthetics, glycolic acid peels are offered in various strengths, allowing us to tailor them to your individual needs. Glycolic acid peels are also referred to as "lunch-time peels" as they have little or no down time.

COMMON QUESTIONS

What is Glycolic Acid?

Derived from sugarcane, glycolic acid is a naturally occurring fruity acid which forms part of a group of products known as Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA's). When applied to the skin in an appropriate manner, glycolic acid helps to give smoother, brighter skin that is less prone to acne.

How does glycolic acid work?

Our skin is constantly renewing itself in a process known as desquamation, shedding old skin and producing new skin to replace it. With aging and repeated sun exposure, a number of unsightly changes occur: the skin loses its elasticity and lustre, becomes wrinkled and develops brown spots. The result is an overall sallow complexion. Glycolic acid helps by promoting desquamation of skin, thus restoring some of the lustre, improving the sallow complexion and fading some brown spots.

In the case of acne, part of the problem is that the cells in the affected oil glands (known as sebaceous glands) are too "sticky" and don't desquamate properly. Because they adhere to each other too strongly, pores become blocked and acne lesions or pimples begin to form. Once again, glycolic acid helps by promoting normal desquamation, thus reducing formation of acne lesions.

What benefits can I expect from glycolic acid peels?

Glycolic acid peels help to brighten the appearance of the skin and soften its texture. When done on a regular basis, they may help to lighten some pigment spots and slightly tighten pores. Glycolic acid peels are also frequently used to treat acne in conjunction with other therapies. By promoting the natural turnover of old cells on the skin surface, glycolic acid helps to give a brighter, fresher skin appearance, restoring some of its lustre.

Who is an ideal candidate for a peel?

Anyone who wishes to improve the appearance of their skin is a good candidate for a glycolic treatment. Individuals with acne, blotchy skin colour, sun damage, blackheads and whiteheads, fine wrinkles, prominent pores, and others may benefit from this treatment.

Who is not an ideal candidate for a peel?

Individuals using the medication Accutane must wait at least 6 months after completing their treatment prior to proceeding with peels of any kind.

What will I look like afterwards?

The skin is may be slightly pink for 1 - 24 hours after treatment. Over the course of a few days, the skin may range from normal to slightly dry and flaky. Light crusting or frosting in scattered areas, which may last 3 - 4 days, may occasionally be seen. It is very important that you do not pick - this can cause darkening of skin in the affected areas, also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

How long does the treatment last?

The peel solution is applied to the skin for anywhere from 1 - 5 minutes, depending on the skin's tolerance. As part of your Glycolic Acid Peel service, a complimentary cleansing facial, which usually takes 30 - 45 minutes, is performed prior to the peel at Q Esthetics.

How do I know which peel strength to choose?

At your appointment time, your skin will be assessed by an experienced aesthetician in order to determine the peel strength most suitable for you. In general, the concentration of glycolic acid is gradually increased with each treatment in order to maximize results.

Are there any side effects?

In the right hands, side effects with glycolic acid peels are rare and mild. Most individuals are able to return to work or regular activities immediately after their treatment. At Q Esthetics, your treatment will be performed by a highly trained esthetician who has performed hundreds of treatments.

After a glycolic acid treatment, one may notice slight redness for up to 24 hours. This is a normal and expected occurrence indicating that the peel solution is doing its job. Sensitivity to sunlight may occasionally occur and may be prevented by using a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Dry, flaky skin or light crusting may last up to 4 or 5 days after peel. Do not pick! Very rarely, one may see temporary discolouration of the skin.

Is there anything I should avoid before my glycolic acid peel?

Individuals using Tretinoin (e.g. Retin-A, Vitamin A Acid, etc.), AHA's (e.g. Glycolic acid), topical acne medications (e.g. Benzamycin, Clindoxyl, BenzaClin, Differin, Stievamycin, etc.) or any product which is drying or irritating must stop the product at least 3 - 5 days before the peel. This will help to avoid excessive peeling, exfoliation and irritation. These products may be resumed as tolerated when there is no irritation, usually approximately 3 - 5 days after the glycolic acid treatment.

How do I care for my skin after a glycolic peel?

On the evening of treatment, cleanse the skin gently, pat dry and apply a rich moisturizer. For the next 3 days, cleanse twice daily and apply moisturizer as required. It is essential to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on a daily basis. This will help to reduce the chance of sun sensitivity. Most individuals may resume their normal skin care routine 3 days after treatment.

We recommend using a maintenance program consisting of a glycolic acid moisturizer and / or other products such as Tretinoin (Vitamin A Acid or Retin-A) after and between peels so as to further enhance the results. This will be discussed with you at the time of your treatment.

Individuals using Tretinoin (e.g. Retin-A, Vitamin A Acid, etc.), AHA's (e.g. Glycolic acid), topical acne medications (e.g. Benzamycin, Clindoxyl, BenzaClin, Differin, Stievamycin, etc.) or any product which is drying or irritating must wait until there is no irritation (usually approximately 3 - 5 days after the treatment) before restarting.

How often should I have a glycolic acid treatment?

To achieve optimal results, we recommend a series of 4 - 6 glycolic acid peels approximately every 4 weeks. Results are cumulative, so the more peels you have, the better the results. Periodic peels thereafter help to maintain your results.

Can I do other cosmetic treatments with glycolic acid peels?

Botox and fillers (e.g. Restylane, Perlane) may be done immediately after a glycolic acid peel as long as there is no scabbing in the area to be treated. Facial waxing or other facial treatments should wait at least 5 days after a peel to avoid excessive irritation.