1. What is a Glycolic acid peel?
A glycolic acid peel is a simply and controlled procedure, which removes dead surface skin cells revealing the fresh, undamaged skin underneath. Peels are available in a various concentrations ranging from 20% to 70% glycolic acid (derived from sugar cane). A trained specialist applies glycolic acid on cleansed skin for 2 to 5 minutes as required. It is then neutralized and followed by a post peel emollient. It's that simple! Expensive facials are a fad of the past as peels offer added advantages with visible results with the first procedure.
2. What kind of improvements can I expect with a peel procedure?
Results that can be achieved include!
• Softening of fine lines
• Reduction in the appearance of wrinkles
• Increased smoothness of skin texture
• Mild or moderate leveling of acne scars
• Lightening of pigmentation irregularities (age spots/dark spots)
• Evened-out skin tone
• Increased skin moisture
• Increased skin glow and radiance
• Minimization of pore size
3. What area of the body can this system be used on?
• Face
• Chest
• Back
• Top of hands
• Arms
• Legs
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4. How much "downtime" should I anticipate?
These peels are commonly referred to as "lunchtime peels" since there is no "downtime." Patients can resume their daily activities immediately after a peel (i.e. return to work minutes after the peel).
5. How do glycolic acid peels differ from other chemical peels?
In the past, chemical peeling agents were primarily phenol and trichloroacetic acid (TCA). These toxic agents produce a deep peel that can lead to procedural complications such as excessive coloration and discoloration (hyperpigmentation & hypopigmentation) as well as possible scarring. The patient may have a long recovery period.
In contrast, the glycolic acid peel system is non-toxic to skin cells. Since it is used to gently remove the damaged layers of cells that cover the healthy ones, the glycolic acid peel procedure is a superficial peel. Improvements in skin appearance usually result from a controlled series of peels that do not require long recovery periods or significant downtime. When properly used, results with glycolic acid peels are comparable to those achieved with phenol or TCA, with out the complications
6. Can anyone have a glycolic acid peel procedure?
To determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure, consult your doctor to discuss your medical history. Your doctor will design a program to best suit your medical history. Your doctor will design a program to best suit your individual needs based on your medical history, age and skin type.
If you have the following conditions: allergies, atopic skin reactions, eczema, seborheic dermatitis, collagen disease/ autoimmune disease, viral infections ( including herpes simplex) and sun sensitivity, advise your doctor as certain conditions affect the sensitivity and receptivity of your skin to glycolic acid peels. Additional factors including certain drugs such as anti-coagulants for circulation disorders or smoking may slow your recovery after the peel process.
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7. What should I do prior to the peel procedure?
Your doctor will recommend a pre-procedure regimen with one of Pro Derm products. It is important to begin using this product at least 2 weeks prior to your peel. Apply once daily to start and when your skin adapts to the product apply twice daily, immediately upon rising and just before bed. This will help prepare your skin for the peel procedure.
As it is possible for some products to increase skin sensitivity to glycolic acid, you should discontinue the use of the following products or procedures one week prior to undergoing a peel: electrolysis, waxing, depilatories, masks, hair dyes, permanent waves, straightening procedures, Retin-A ™ ( tretinoin, retinol or any other derivative of vitamin A), loofa sponges and other types of mechanical exfoliants.
If you have used one of the restricted products or procedures in the week prior to the peel, make sure to notify your doctor.
8. What do I do on the day of the procedure?
Do not shave, use after-shave, cologne or makeup on the affected area. Carefully cleanse your skin.
9. What are the post-peel procedure instructions?
Following these guidelines will help accelerate the renewal process:
1. Apply the recommended restorative emollient twice daily for 3 to 7 days. Then return your pre-procedure regime of Prodera cream or lotion. This becomes your maintenance program.
2. Wash the affected areas very gently, avoiding the use of abrasive or exfoliating sponges for 3 to 7 days.
3. Stay entirely out of the sun the day of the peel. Keep your skin clear and free of all products other then the post-peel NutriCream for the day.
4. Avoid sun exposure. Resume using sunscreen the day after the peel procedure.
5. To avoid the possibility of scarring, DO NOT:
• Peel the skin
• Pick the skin
• Scrape the skin
• Scratch the skin
• Use a mask on the skin
• Wear tight fitting hats or headbands on the affected area
If your skin is very sensitive, avoid the use of makeup for 1 week. If you have little skin sensitivity, you can apply makeup the following day.
Call your doctor if you have any concerns or questions.
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10. What is the delay for undergoing additional peel procedures?
If you have little discomfort with the peel procedure, with limited shedding of the surface skin, a second peel can be performed one week later. In general, additional peels are performed every 2 to 6 weeks as required. In order to maintain your results, we recommend that you have a peel done once a month. This will not only help to preserve the results achieved but also keep your skin hydrated and free of blemishes. For over a decade, men and women have been substituting a monthly facial with glycolic acid peels because of the added benefits not offered by facials. For example, glycolic acid helps promote collagen synthesis, which in turn increases skin thickness reducing the appearance of fine lines.
11. Are there any possible unpleasant reactions to a peel procedure?
After your peel, your face may redden slightly. Most patients are able to return to work immediately after the procedure. Some patients have experienced stinging, itching, mild burning, mild pain or discomfort which subside within a few days.
A treatment may be delayed if you have experienced any of the following conditions in the recent past: active herpes simplex, warts, Accutane ™ use within 6 months, surgery (healing wounds), prior peels or dermabrasion, radiation treatment, severe sunburn, hypertrophic or keloidial scarring and or cryotherapy/cryosurgery within the last month.
As with all medical procedures, some mild side effects can occur. The glycolic acid peel process can possibly cause a flare up of acne or herpes simplex in patient who have those conditions.
For more information please arrange a complimentary consultation with
our physician to determine the best recommendation for your particular needs.
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