How to Get the Best Results from a Glycolic Acid Chemical Peel
If you have decided to get a glycolic acid chemical peel, you are taking the first steps to more youthful looking skin. Before the chemical peel is applied, it is important to know how to get the most out of the procedure. Glycolic acid chemical peels are part of the light peel family, but they still should not be repeated too often. Give your glycolic acid chemical peel the best chance to provide you with the results you want.
The best way to prepare for a glycolic acid chemical peel is to understand exactly what is involved and what kind of results you will see. The best candidates have mild skin problems or conditions. These people will want to rejuvenate their skin without facing the extended recovery time that is associated with medium or deep chemical peels. Glycolic acid peels, the most common of the Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peels, are safe and effective ways to improve sun-damaged skin, remove mild acne scars and reduce fine lines. These chemical peels will exfoliate the skin and unclog pores.
Glycolic acid chemical peels require almost no recovery time. The skin may flake or be irritated directly after the peel is neutralized, but can be combated with a mild cleanser or gentle moisturizer. Unlike medium and deep peels, the flaking and redness associated with glycolic acid peels will not stop a client from working or taking part in social activities.
There are risk factors associated with glycolic chemical peels. To best understand the risk factors on an individual basis, clients should consult a dermatologist or doctor before having a chemical peel. Occasionally, medicines will cause chemical peels to have an adverse reaction not originally anticipated; only a doctor or dermatologist will be able to accurately predict each client’s individual risk factors. People using acne medication, with active cold sores and women who are pregnant or nursing should not have glycolic acid peels as they have a higher chance for adverse reactions.
After having a glycolic chemical peel, clients can use AHA-based creams one to two times a day. This is usually enough to continue rejuvenating the skin and help the client reach his or her desired outcome sooner. If a client wants a chemical peel to reduce blotchy skin or discoloration, using skin-bleaching cream after the peel may help achieve that goal.
Some skin improvements may be visible directly after the peel, but they are most often subtle. The skin may have a healthier glow or may clear of acne, but only continued treatments will lead to general skin improvements. While many clients choose to take part in repeated treatments, it is vital that these treatments not occur too closely together. Engaging in peels too frequently will cause the skin to be irritated and inflamed. This is especially true if the acid concentrations are too high or the client leaves the treatment on too long.
Glycolic acid chemical peels are safe and effective ways to make small improvements to the face. There are a number of techniques you can use to ensure you get the best results from your chemical peels. Proper preparation and follow up will mean better results and goals that are achieved faster.