What does fact checked mean?
At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
- Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology: Glycolic Acid Peel Therapy – A Current Review
- Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology: Glycolic Acid Peel Therapy – A Current Review
- Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery: Complications of Medium Depth and Deep Chemical Peels
- Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery: Complications of Medium Depth and Deep Chemical Peels
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
The Risks of Glycolic Peels
A glycolic acid peel is a type of alpha-hydroxy peel used to treat acne, acne scars, melasma and aging due to sun exposure. You can receive glycolic acid peels in spas at 30-percent strength or in a dermatologist's office at up to 70-percent strength. The total time to receive such a peel is about 30 minutes and most people experience minimal side effects.
During, Immediately After and Long-Term Risks
During and directly following a glycolic peel, you may experience reddening and stinging or burning sensation. Your skin is more sensitive to the sun following a peel, and you may be prone to temporary darkening of the skin. People with dark skin or those vulnerable to keloid scarring could experience adverse reactions such as permanent uneven skin tone, skin lightening or scarring, notes a 2012 paper in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 3. Milia, which are small white cysts, and permanent reddening of the skin are other potential complications. In rare cases, complications include infection, skin textural changes, tissue injury and allergic reactions to the peel.
- During and directly following a glycolic peel, you may experience reddening and stinging or burning sensation.
- People with dark skin or those vulnerable to keloid scarring could experience adverse reactions such as permanent uneven skin tone, skin lightening or scarring, notes a 2012 paper in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 3.
Related Articles
References
- Acne.org: Chemical Peels
- Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology: Glycolic Acid Peel Therapy – A Current Review
- Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery: Complications of Medium Depth and Deep Chemical Peels
- O'connor AA, Lowe PM, Shumack S, Lim AC. Chemical peels: a review of current practice. Australas J Dermatol. 2018;59(3):171-181. doi:10.1111/ajd.12715
- Castillo DE, Keri JE. Chemical peels in the treatment of acne: patient selection and perspectives. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2018;11:365–372. doi:10.2147/CCID.S137788
- Soleymani T, Lanoue J, Rahman Z. A practical approach to chemical peels: a review of fundamentals and step-by-step algorithmic protocol for treatment. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11(8):21–28.
- Cleveland Clinic. Chemical peels: what to expect.
- Cleveland Clinic. Chemical peels: how to prepare.
- Stanford Healthcare. Techniques: our approach to chemical skin peels.
- Cleveland Clinic. What results can I expect?.
Writer Bio
Andrea Boldt has been in the fitness industry for more than 20 years. A personal trainer, run coach, group fitness instructor and master yoga teacher, she also holds certifications in holistic and fitness nutrition.