There is no doubt that glycolic acid peel is one of the best and safest skin treatment methods known to man for centuries. It is in practice since the ancient time. Lower concentrations of glycolic acid usually are not associated with serious kind of side effects when done properly. However, there are certain details that you should know before you attempt to undergo glycolic acid peel treatment. First, you have to know what glycolic acid peel is and how it works on the skin, and then you have to know what are the side effects associated with it and how to avoid them.
Glycolic acid peels and the Side Effects
Normally, no serious kinds of side effects are associated with this kind of skin treatment. The more common side effects of the treatment are briefly discussed below.
- Redness and Swelling: It is the most common side effect of a glycolic acid peel treatment. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, patients undergoing this treatment are more like to experience redness and swelling on the treated area. This condition will last for few days only. Initially, the condition will appear worse but as the time progress, the intensity will decrease too.
- Sun Sensitivity and Irritation: The patient will experience irritation and slight stinging soon after the treatment of glycolic acid peel. When the patient exposes to the sun, the condition can get worse. To avoid this discomfort, the patient should either avoid sun exposure to weal a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
- Scaling: As the glycolic acid starts to work on the treated area, the top skin layer will be dissolved that leads of scaling. The skin can become very dry and crust may form. Few days after the treatment, the entire dead skin will flake off.
- Scarring: Though it is rare, but scarring can happen in some cases after the treatment of glycolic acid peel. As an extra precaution, antiviral medications are usually prescribed prior to the treatment. This is especially needed if the patient has a history of fever blisters, cold sores, and keloid scarring.
- Change in Skin Tone: In some cases, the skin can change the color permanently. This condition is more likely if the patient has a history of brown discoloration of the skin, have been pregnant, or take the birth control pills.
- Cold Sores: Those who are prone to Herpes simplex infections or cold sores may have the risk of recurrence of cold sores or fever blisters. Such patients should conduct a spot test before apply the acid to the entire area.
Glycolic Acid Peel
This acid is derived from sugar cane. It is the most popular acid used in many skin care products. It is part of the group called alpha hydroxy acids, or fruit acids. Experienced users and dermatologist can use the acid in higher concentrations to get quicker results. However, beginners or those who want to use it at home should always go for the lighter concentrations to avoid any harm to the skin.
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