Most people can use glycolic acid effectively, but sometimes the acid can irritate darker skin tones and cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or dark spots. Using lower concentrations and refraining from using too many glycolic acid-containing products can often reduce this risk.
Will a glycolic peel make me break out?
Breakouts after a chemical peel are normal. Sometimes even if your skin appears healthy on the surface you can have underlying bacteria and pigmentation that has not come up yet. Peels accelerate your cell turnover, it is normal to have a purging phase when you first start treating the skin.
Does glycolic acid build collagen?
In addition, to improving this wide variety of skin-related problems, glycolic acid can also increase collagen production. According to Kenneth Howe, M.D., a dermatologist at Wexler Dermatology in New York City, “Glycolic acid stimulates fibroblasts in the dermis to produce increased amounts of collagen,” says Dr.
What to expect after a glycolic peel?
What’s the downtime like? Immediately after a glycolic acid peel, your skin will typically feel tight and look a little red. With some, by day two to three, post-peel skin can feel dry and might slough off and shed (that’s when the “peeling” comes into play).
What are the side effects of glycolic acid peel treatments?
If you have sensitive skin, a peel treatment with a high concentration of glycolic acid can cause inflammation, irritation, redness, and pigmentation. And in some cases, even scarring is a side effect. So it’s very important to start your treatment from a mild concentration of glycolic acid and work it up.
Do glycolic acid peels cause hyperpigmentation?
A strong glycolic peel that irritates the skin can trigger more pigment production. In a study published in JAMA Dermatology, researchers noted that glycolic acid peels greater than 30% may lead to irritation and hyperpigmentation in patients with brown skin. In-office peels vs. over-the-counter skin-care products: What’s the difference?
What happens to your skin after a chemical peel?
Typically, immediately after the peel, the skin will feel tight and look red. With some, by day two to three, post-peel skin can begin to slough and shed. The level of peeling again depends on the intensity of the peel. With mild peels, expect gentle sloughing, and with stronger peels, skin can peel more dramatically.
Are glycolic peels safe for dark skin tones?
While glycolic peels are proven to be safe for all skin tones and types, your provider should take special care if you have dark skin that’s prone to post – inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A strong glycolic peel that irritates the skin can trigger more pigment production.
