How do Alpha Hydroxy Acids work?
Basically, AHA's disolve the "glue" that holds dead cells onto the surface of the skin. This allows dead cells to slough off, leaving behind a layer of smoother, softer skin. In addition, AHA's help dissolve materials that clog pores. This permits pores to drain better, decreasing the tendency for acne lesions to form. At the same time, the deeper portion of the skin (dermis) is stimulated to produce new collagen and elastin, both important components of healthy skin. This thickening of the collagen layer along with the smoothing of the epidermis, results in improving the appearance of the fine lines on the face.

How long before I will begin to see results?
Immediately your skin is vibratnt and free of dead skin cells, over the next couple days you may experience a shedding of some skin. This is GOOD, you are getting rid of the dull top layers and unvieling the fresh youthful vibrant skin underneath!  AHA peels improve texture and allow the skin to look smoother, look healthier, feel softer and aid in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, it also aids in the penetration of your daily product being absorbed into the skin..

How does the loss of a layer of dead cells and increased collagen improve the appearance of the skin?
A thick layer of dead cells on the surface of the skin gives the complexion a rough, dull appearance. When these cells are removed, a fresh new layer is exposed. This layer has a smoother texture and a more uniform color. At the same time, deeper layers of the skin are stimulated to produce new collagen and elastic fibers which lend support to the overlying epidermis (surface skin cells). Recent scientific studies show that continued use of Alpha Hydroxy Acids over time can cause the top layer of living cells to actually become plumper, creating a more youthful tightening of the skin. In some AHA users, this tightening can even lead to a reduction in fine wrinkles or superficial scars.

What is Glycolic Acid skin peel?
A solution containing high concentrations of Glycolic Acid is applied to your skin for a brief period of time and then removed. This solution causes several of the top layers of skin to dry up and "peel off" over a period of several days. This "peeling" generally does not cause an unsightly shedding of the skin, instead it results in a temporary slight reddening of the skin, ultimately exposing a new layer of undamaged skin which has a smoother texture and more even color.

How do I use Glycolic Acid?
We have a variety of products available that contain Glycolic Acids which include cleansers, astringents, creams, lotions, and gels. As other products become available (shampoos, sunscreens, etc.) we will evaluate them for our patients. We can advise you on which products are appropriate for your skin type. Together we can create a long term regimen of skin care to keep your skin looking its best. I suggest Image products & Glymed for home care.

Are there any restrictions on who can have a Glycolic Acid peel?
As with any procedure, some patients are more sensitive to the stronger solutions of Glycolic Acid. For this reason, we recommend a gradual progression from low to more intensive strengths, as tolerated by the skin. Unlike many other peels, Glycolic Acid usually does not permanently lighten the skin. Therefore, peels can be performed on patients with darker skin types, including Hispanic, Asian and Black.

Can Glycolic Acid peels be used on areas of the body other than the face?
Many areas of the body appear to respond well to treatment with Glycolic Acid. Generally, the arms, hands, neck and chest improve at a slower rate than the face. If the patient elects to treat these areas, more aggressive, stronger solutions of Glycolic Acids will need to be used as well as having several peels performed.

What type of skin problems will not be improved with Glycolic Acid?
Generally, deep skin folds and creases, ice pick acne scars, tattoos and the like are not affected by the use of Glycolic Acid.

How do Glycolic Acid peels improve acne?
One of the most prominent contributing factors in the formation of pimples and blackheads is the accumulation of dead skin cells and excess oils around openings of hair follicles (pores), which form a plug and clog the pores. This can prevent the escape of oils and bacteria, which are produced in greater abundance in acne prone skin. Furthermore, the plugs and surrounding dead skin layer, prevent topical acne medications from reaching the maximum potential in the skin. Glycolic Acid treatments remove the dead skin barrier and help to unclog the pores, allowing oil to emerge and topical medications (antibiotics, Benzoyl Peroxide, Retin-A, etc.) to penetrate the deeper layers of the epidermis where they are most effective.

Like Retin-A, will Glycolic Acid cause my skin to become more sensitive to sunlight and other products?
The use of Glycolic Acid rarely causes sensitivity to sunlight. The vast majority of people can use Glycolic Acid with little or no redness, irritation or flaking, as is otherwise seen with the use of Retin-A. Interestingly, many patients combine the use of Glycolic Acid creams and lotions with Retin-A to enhance the effects of both products.

How much time will I miss from work with a Glycolic Acid peel?
Glycolic Acid peels can be of many different depths. They can be very superficial, causing some pinkness or slight reddening of the skin for 1 or 2 days, or they can be deeper, taking up to 7-8 days to heal. The most superficial peels can normally be done without having to miss any time from work. However, since they are light peels, it is usually necessary to perform a series of peels in order to achieve optimum results.