Reveal Younger Looking Skin with Glycolic Peels

What the heck is a peel for?  Which type of peel should I use?  I get these questions regularly and the basic principles are that peels are used to exfoliate.  Not by scrubbing but by applying a type of acid that will slough off the dead skin cells.  One common type of peel is known as the Glycolic Peel made with Glycolic Acid.  Glycolic Acid is derived from Natural fruit acids called alpha hydroxy acids or AHA’s and are used to rejuvenate the skin by encouraging the shedding of old, sun-damaged surface skin cells. Glycolic acid is the alpha hydroxy acid most frequently used for Glycolic Acid facial treatments but lactic and citric acid are also useful. 

Who should get a Glycolic Peel?
Glycolic acid peels are recommended for those whose skin is showing signs of aging. Fine lines, age spots and dull, dry skin can improve with peels. Glycolic acid may also prove helpful for those prone to Acne.

How do Peels work?
Age and exposure to the sun throughout the years will slow down the rate at which the cells turnover.  This results in a surface layer of dead skin cells that are responsible for the appearance of aged skin.
Glycolic Acid loosen the glue-like substances that hold the surface skin cells to each other, therefore allowing the dead skin to peel off. The skin underneath has a fresher, healthier look with a more even color and texture.
With high concentration and long-term use AHA’s may also affect the deeper layers of the skin. Collagen and elastin regenerate making fine lines less obvious.

What do Peels involve?
An ideal treatment for busy people who are unable to take time off work for a deeper peel or laser resurfacing, fruit acid facial peels gently retexture the skin over a period of a few months. The treatments are also helpful in stabilizing oily or acne-prone skin and improving skin tone.
A Glycolic Acid Peel takes about 15 - 20 minutes. It is usually repeated at one to two weekly intervals as it is superficial so recovery is rapid. It The strength of each peel ranges from 20 - 70% glycolic, depending on skin sensitivity and starting gently.
The face is cleansed and then the peel solution is applied for about three minutes. It stings mildly. The solution is then washed off and a neutralizing solution is applied.

Treated skin may be a little pink immediately after treatment. A little peeling may occur over the next few days. It can be disguised with moisturizer or normal make-up.