Glycolic Chemical Peels  - The Magic Ingredient!


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Glycolic chemical peels are a type of superficial (mild) chemical peel, which are the least penetrative of the three strengths of chemical peel available. The others strengths of chemical peel, the medium depth and deep (phenol) chemical peel, have the ability to penetrate deeper into the skin, which is both an advantage and a disadvantage.

Glycolic chemical peels have the lowest risk factor attached to them and they also have the quickest recovery time (earning them the nickname ‘lunchtime peel’).  Yet, if you desire quick and miraculous improvements in the skin’s aesthetic quality then you are likely to be disappointed with the results of a glycolic peel. This is because the weaker strength of the acid within the glycolic chemical peel means that fewer layers of dead skin cells are dissolved. Consequentially it is expected that for greater results a repeat chemical peel should be carried out after a minimum period of around 2-3 months.


Why glycolic acid is used in chemical peels

Glycolic acid (scientifically known as hydroxyacetic acid) is the smallest alpha hydroxy acid, and has an excellent skin penetrating property. As a result glycolic acid is commonly utilised to chemically peel the skin.

A dermatologist or a trained beauty therapist can perform glycolic acid chemical peels of a strength ranging from 20% to 70%. In home chemical peels this is restricted to a concentration of between 10 to 50%.  Physician strength chemical peels can have a pH of as low as 0.6 whereas at home the pH can be as high as 2.5.

Glycolic acid functions to weaken the binding properties of the lipids (fats) that maintain the position of dead skin cells. As a result these skin cells flake off and are replaced, over time with new, fresh skin cells.

A glycolic acid peel is an appropriate treatment for: superficial wrinkles, acne and scarring, hyperpigmentation and a variety of other skin conditions.

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