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Glycolic acid peels typically start at $399 per treatment.
It takes 1-14 days to recover from a glycolic acid peel, depending on the type of treatment.
A glycolic acid peel can be performed in as little as 10-15 minutes.
A glycolic acid peel is a procedure used to rejuvenate the skin. The alpha-hydroxy acid exfoliates the skin and dissolves dead skin cells, leaving the skin looking smoother and brighter. This procedure can remove the cells from the outer layer of the skin while also penetrating deep under the skin to address imperfections. A glycolic acid peel can be performed on the face, hands, feet, chest, and neck.
Do you have fine lines or wrinkles that make you look older? Is your skin discoloured, hyperpigmented, or full of sun and age spots? Do you have pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads that make you feel self-conscious? If so, a glycolic acid peel may be right for you.
Ideal candidates for a glycolic acid peel have:
However, if you have a history of skin scarring, a naturally dark skin tone, or extra pigmentation on your scars, you are not a good candidate for a glycolic acid peel.
If you are not a good candidate, you can look into non-surgical treatments available at SpaMedica.
Brightens and Refreshes Skin
Many people suffer from dull skin as they age. A glycolic acid peel freshens and brightens the skin, improving the texture and overall appearance.
Reduces the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Fine lines and wrinkles make people look years older than they really are and reduce self-confidence. A glycolic acid peel reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, making people look and feel better.
Lightens Discolourations and Imperfections
Many people have imperfections due to sunlight exposure or aging. A glycolic acid peel reduces the appearance of discolourations and imperfections and in some cases, they are no longer noticeable.
Controls Acne Outbreaks
Acne outbreaks make people feel self-conscious. A glycolic acid peel can remove acne from the skin while reducing pore size. This makes it easier to maintain acne-free skin.
The chance of complications following a glycolic acid peel is low. Some normal side effects include:
Redness
Redness is the most common risk associated with a glycolic acid peel. The redness normally goes away after a few days, but it can last for months after undergoing a deep chemical peel.
Scarring
While extremely rare, it is possible to experience scarring after a glycolic acid peel. Your doctor can prescribe medications to reduce the appearance of scars.
Pigment Changes
Pigment changes are also rare but possible. The skin can become lighter or darker following the peel. Those who have darker skin tones are more likely to experience pigment changes. Dr. Mulholland assesses patients during the consultation and explains the likelihood of experiencing this risk.
Infection
Infections are not common at all but possible after a glycolic acid peel. This includes fungal and bacterial infections, as well as flare-ups for those who have the herpes virus.
With more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Mulholland is an expert in chemical peels and other cosmetic procedures. Along with his team of personally trained and highly qualified technicians, SpaMedica patients can rest assured knowing they are in the best hands.
Dr. Mulholland’s experience also allows him to recommend additional procedures to help people achieve the results they want.
Glycolic acid peels come in a variety of strengths and the stronger the strength and concentration of the Glycolic acid the deeper and more aggressive the peel.
Salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) are other chemical peels used to rejuvenate skin.
Dr. Mulholland supervises or performs all glycolic acid peels at SpaMedica. The doctor begins by cleaning the treatment area before the provider uses a brush to apply the chemical peel solution over the treatment area. The solution remains on the skin for approximately five minutes. Then, the doctor rinses the area with water to neutralise the chemicals. Anti-aging products are applied to the skin to hydrate it.
Preparation for a glycolic acid peel at SpaMedica includes:
Depending on the type of glycolic acid chemical peel you receive, you might see the results within 2 weeks or 4 months. The skin must heal after the peel before the results are visible. Most people get 3 to 6 glycolic acid peels to achieve optimal results. The recovery time is generally easier after each peel.
Recovery depends on the type of chemical peel the patient receives. Regardless of the type of peel, people can expect flaking, redness, and skin irritation immediately following the peel. Patients should avoid direct sunlight and heavy makeup when healing. Those who experience discomfort can use over-the-counter pain relievers and apply ice packs to the treatment area.
It’s normal to feel tingling or stinging when getting a glycolic acid peel, but the procedure is not painful. However, most patients experience increased sensitivity for several days after receiving a glycolic acid peel. This side effect is controlled by avoiding direct sunlight and using over-the-counter medications if needed.
The results depend on the skin type and the type of peel. Patients can expect results to last 1-2 months for light chemical peels, while the results can last for up to 6 months for a medium peel. Deeper peels have longer-lasting results, with many people noticing the difference for years.
