Glycolic Peel

What is Alpha Hydroxy Acid?

Alpha hydroxy acids are naturally occurring acids originally derived from various fruit sources. These agents have been used for thousands of years, in fact, Cleopatra was said to have bathed in sour milk to soften her skin. Recently, the media and pharmaceutical companies have also taken an interest in these products. Though these acids have many benefits, they also have their limits.

What glycolic acid peels can do:

• Improve sun damaged skin.
• Improve irregular skin pigmentation.
• Improve fine wrinkles.
• Help with acne and mild acne scarring.

The glycolic acid peels are often referred to as "freshening peels" because they improve the quality of the skin without disrupting the epidermis. These peels have also been called the "lunch hour peel" implying that you can have a glycolic acid peel done during your lunch hour, reapply your make-up, and return to work. Our office uses NeoStrata peels which contain 100% unneutralized (free) glycolic acid to maximize bioavailability, resulting in an effective, predictable, safe peel. Many competitive peel products are either pH adjusted, buffered or partially neutralized reducing their effectiveness and predictability. The NeoStrata Peel System allows the trained professional to safely design a treatment program around a particular patient's skin care needs and tolerance. The NeoStrata Glycolic Acid Skin Renewal Peels offer the flexibility of various concentrations that are predictable and can be combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as microdermabrasions, jet peels and laser treatments. A series of six is recommended for the best results. Other chemical peels, such as trichloroacetic acid and phenol, will provide more dramatic results, however, their recovery time is much longer.

What glycolic acid peels can NOT do:

• Improve lax skin and deep wrinkles.
• Improve deep scars.
• Remove broken blood vessels.
• Remove all unwanted pigmentation.

It is important to consider what results you hope to achieve before pursuing any cosmetic procedure. If you are looking for dramatic results, you will be unsatisfied with the glycolic acid peels and should discuss other options with our physician.

Dr. Jenifer R. Lloyd performs this and other cosmetic treatments at our center.

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