Glycolic peels help to:
- Improve skin texture
- Produce healthier and more vibrant skin
- Mildly exfoliate
Glycolic Peel Treatment Details
Glycolic peels are performed in our office. There are various peel solutions containing different concentrations of glycolic acid; our team will select the concentration that is right for your skin type and treatment goals.
The peel process is very fast — in fact, it only takes a few minutes. First, your skin is cleansed and prepared with a prepping solution. Next, the peel solution is applied to your skin; the specific solution used is selected based on your skin type, tone and tolerance. Then, the peel is neutralized and antioxidant vitamin solutions and a soothing lotion are applied to your skin.
Post-Peel Skin Care
There is virtually no downtime after a glycolic peel. Feel free to return to work or your normal routine right after your peel, as long as you avoid direct sun exposure for the rest of the day.
For a few days following the peel, we encourage you to use nothing more than gentle cleansers and moisturizers on the treated skin. Avoid any exfoliating serums or creams and refrain from using retinol products or acne medications. Apply sunscreen liberally when going outside. It is important to avoid sun exposure for the next few days.
Frequently Asked Questions About Glycolic Peels
Is getting a glycolic peel painful?
No, glycolic peels with our team of providers are not painful. GlyDerm products are specially formulated to produce minimal burning and stinging sensations compared to other peel systems. You may feel some slight tingling or itching as the glycolic acid solution is applied and sits on your skin. After the peel is neutralized, your skin should feel smooth and refreshed.
How can I prepare to get a glycolic peel?
For approximately one week prior to the peel, avoid using exfoliating, scrubbing or retinol products. Refrain from waxing or undergoing electrolysis in the target treatment area. On the day of your peel, stay out of the sun and do not shave the skin being treated.
Are there any after effects?
Treated skin will flake and peel in the days following treatment. Some patients experience mild pinkness or sensitivity of the treated skin for one to three days after the peel. If these effects last more than five days, we advise you to get in touch with our team.
How many peels will I need?
Most patients benefit from a series of six peel treatments, spaced two weeks apart.
Where can a glycolic peel be applied?
Glycolic peels can be applied to the face, decolletage, back and backs of the hands.
Does glycolic acid whiten skin?
Glycolic acid lightens dark spots and evens out the skin’s tone through gentle chemical exfoliation.
Who should not get glycolic peels?
Glycolic peels are not recommended for individuals who:
- Have active bacterial, viral or fungal infections
- Have open skin lesions
- Are pregnant or nursing
- Have a history of keloid scarring
- Have severe medical conditions
- Take certain medications — most commonly the acne medication isotretinoin and photosynthesizing drugs that increase sensitivity to the sun
Our team would be happy to discuss whether the GlyDerm glycolic peel is right for you during a one-on-one consultation. Contact us to request an appointment today.
Grossmont Dermatology Medical Clinic and Skin Cancer Treatment Center Staff
Grossmont Dermatology is committed to providing patients with excellent quality skin treatments to help them preserve their youth. They use the latest technologies and treatment modalities to provide patients with the most effective services suiting their individual needs. The team of professionals at the practice comprise:
- Paul B. Dean, MD, MPH, FAAD – Specializes in general dermatology, mole and lesion removal, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and skin cancer treatments.
- Maki Christine Goskowicz, MD, FAAD – Expertise includes general, cosmetic and laser dermatology, and skin cancer surgery and Botox treatments.
- Christopher Crosby, MD, PhD, FAAD - Specialist in Mohs surgery and reconstructive dermatologic surgery for skin cancers.
- Shinko Lin, MD – Specializes in general, cosmetic and laser dermatology, skin cancer treatments, and PDT.
- Sam Khalifian, MD – Specializes in adult and pediatric autoimmune connective tissue disease, skin cancer and melanoma treatments, hair loss disorders, and cosmetics.
- Helene Jolly, PA-C, MPAP – Performs cosmetic dermatology, acne and skin rash treatments, and mole removal among other tasks.
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