Modern cosmetology offers many different types of chemical peels. Some target the first signs of ageing, while others deeply cleanse the epidermis. Others are part of acne and breakout therapy. A glycolic acid peel combines all of these approaches. Although products containing glycolic acid are available without a prescription, performing a peel at home is not recommended. It is better to entrust this responsible procedure to the professionals at our salon. Under the supervision of an experienced specialist, skin cleansing is performed quickly and without pain.
What Is a Glycolic Acid Peel?
Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane. It effectively loosens the stratum corneum and improves blood circulation in the tissues. The acid molecules penetrate deep into the epidermis and act intensively on cells in the dermis.
A glycolic acid peel is suitable for all skin types except sensitive skin — for skin prone to irritation, an azelaic peel is a better option. It can be performed from the age of 15 in cases of acne. One of the undeniable advantages of this cosmetic treatment is its effectiveness. A noticeable effect becomes visible after several treatments and lasts for a long time. At the same time, the recovery period after each session lasts no longer than seven days. During this time, the stratum corneum regenerates completely. The interval between treatments should be approximately one week.
Cosmetologists recommend having a glycolic acid peel during the autumn and winter months. During this period, sun exposure is lower, which means that the recovery process after exfoliation is faster and easier.
What Is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is an active substance that belongs to the group of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). It is a naturally occurring acid found in sugar cane and has been used in cosmetology for more than 25 years. Thanks to its unique properties, glycolic acid has become extremely popular in skincare. Its small molecules can penetrate deeply into the skin structure, allowing it to work effectively at the cellular level. Glycolic acid is valued for its exfoliating properties, which help remove dead epidermal cells and improve skin texture and tone.
How a Glycolic Acid Peel Works
A glycolic acid peel works by dissolving the intercellular bonds in the stratum corneum, causing dead epidermal cells to exfoliate and revealing new, healthier cells. This process stimulates skin regeneration, improving its texture and tone. Glycolic acid also helps reduce post-inflammatory pigmentation, minimise minor scars and smooth post-acne scars. As a result, the skin becomes more even, elastic and radiant. Regular glycolic acid peel treatments may also reduce the visibility of wrinkles and improve the overall appearance of the skin.
Indications for a Glycolic Acid Peel
A glycolic acid peel is an important treatment as part of comprehensive anti-ageing and anti-acne therapy. It is recommended in the following cases:
- acne and breakouts;
- skin hyperpigmentation, numerous freckles and damage caused by sun exposure;
- loss of skin elasticity;
- wrinkles of varying depth;
- thickening of the stratum corneum;
- scars, stretch marks and recent scars;
- enlarged pores.
A glycolic peel also stimulates the repair of damage caused by excessive sun exposure, making it an effective option for people with skin damage.
An acid chemical peel can be used as a preparatory stage before mechanical or laser exfoliation, as well as before plastic surgery. It also works well after facial cleansing, when the pores are already clear.
List of Contraindications
A chemical peel with glycolic acid is not recommended during a flare-up of chronic skin conditions. The treatment should be avoided if you have recently been exposed to the sun or have had an acute infection.
A tendency to develop hypertrophic scars and visible blood vessels are two additional contraindications. A glycolic acid peel is not suitable for people with darker skin tones and dark hair. Pregnant women should also choose other treatments.
Results of a Glycolic Acid Peel Course
Dermatologists emphasise that the results of a glycolic acid peel should only be assessed after completing the full course. If the treatments have been performed professionally, the effect will be noticeable and long-lasting:
- the skin’s protective properties improve significantly;
- pores become less visible and sebaceous gland activity becomes more balanced;
- the skin surface becomes smoother and more even;
- pigmentation, wrinkles and stretch marks become less noticeable;
- breakouts gradually disappear;
- the skin becomes more elastic and the complexion more even.
A chemical peel with glycolic acid makes the skin more receptive to other cosmetic products. This means that subsequent treatments performed by a cosmetologist will be more effective. In addition, the G-Peel glycolic peel can penetrate as far as the papillary layer of the skin, helping improve the condition of oily and acne-prone skin while also supporting regeneration and anti-ageing processes.
Glycolic Acid Peel Procedure
The preparation stage using glycolic acid begins 14 days before the peel itself. For two weeks, a special cream containing a small amount of glycolic acid should be used. This prepares the skin and softens keratinised cells.
On the day of the treatment, the cosmetologist cleanses the face and removes excess sebum and makeup residue. A toner is used to restore the skin’s proper pH. The product is then gently applied to the face using a fan brush. Some unpleasant sensations at this stage are normal.
The active formula is removed with a special neutraliser after 15–20 minutes. The skin is then moisturised with a cream or mask. Sunscreen must be applied before going outside.
The specialists at our salon invite everyone interested to complete a full course of skincare treatments. Qualified cosmetologists will help select suitable cosmetic products, provide detailed advice on any concerns and perform all treatments as gently as possible.
Optimal Number of Treatments
The optimal number of glycolic acid peel treatments depends on the individual needs of the skin. A series of 6–8 treatments at intervals of 7–14 days is usually recommended. However, the final number of treatments should be determined individually with a specialist and adjusted according to changes in the skin’s appearance after each subsequent treatment. Regular consultations with a cosmetologist make it possible to adapt the treatment plan to the specific needs of the skin and achieve the best results.
