The Hydroxyacid (AHA) or Glycolic Acid also known as the "Lunchtime peel" is the gentlest of peels requiring little or no recovery time. The Trichloracetic Acid (TCA) and Jessner's Peels are true chemical peels usually requiring a week to ten days of recovery time.

The purpose of a chemical peel is to remove the layers of dead skin, revealing fresh skin underneath. The body creates new cells to replace the ones that the peel removes. Many medical specialists believe that new collagen is also generated following the peel procedure. In a chemical peel, we apply an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) or a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) to cleansed skin. The acid is left on for a short time (this depends on the condition of the skin, your tolerance level, etc).

Glycolic acid is part of the chemical family referred to as alpha-hydroxy acids. Glycolic acid is a naturally occurring compound in sugar cane. When applied, it helps to dissolve the outer layer of skin.

Glycolic acid works by stimulating new growth of skin and collagen by decreasing the bond that holds dead skin cells on the surface. This allows dead cells to be removed gradually leaving behind a layer of smoother and softer skin.

A chemical peel is a procedure that rejuvenates skin. Most individuals find benefit from the application of glycolic acid. In almost all cases, patients will notice a improved vitality of skin.

No. There is a mild degree of "tingling" or a slightly itchy sensation while the glycolic acid is in contact with the skin. Upon neutralizing the peel, the skin feels fresh and smooth without discomfort.

You may go outside, but sunscreen must be worn for at least a few days after the peel as your skin will likely be a little more sensitive to sun exposure.

Yes. It is a 100% non-toxic substance which does not enter the blood stream when applied to your skin. It has FDA. approval in smaller concentrations for the general public. It is not considered a drug and there are no bad side-effects when used according to the directions. It does have sun precautions that should be followed closely, however. TCA, Jessners and Salicylic acids are also safe. However they should not be applied during pregnancy.

A glycolic acid peel treatment is a specific technique for skin renewal. This procedure removes the damaged layer of surface skin cells revealing fresh skin, and stimulating cell rebuilding and restructuring of deeper skin layers.

If you have never done a skin peel at home, the best thing to do is to use one of the Glycolic Acid Treatment products, such as the 10% Cream, 15% Cream or Gel, for a few weeks first just to prep your skin. If you want to do the peels, you can start out with doing peels at home at the 30% strength since you are new to Glycolic Peels. You leave the peel on for only 1 minute on your first peel, then increase the timing by an extra 30 seconds the next week and so on for a maximum of 5 minutes.

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA's) are really a family of acids. Glycolic is the most widely used because of its small molecular structure, but Lactic ? which is most beneficial for dry/aging skin, and Salicylic ? which is most beneficial for oily/acne prone skin, are very powerful as well, and should be used accordingly. AHA's are one of the safest methods of skin renewal. Their effectiveness depends on the type and concentration of the AHA, its pH (acidity), and other ingredients in the product.

The entire process lasts about 50 minutes, with very little discomfort. Most of the peels are very gentle, with no downtime, and can even be scheduled during a lunch hour. There is minimal redness and mild flaking will occur 3-4 days after the procedure. Best results are achieved when chemical peel treatments are performed in a series.

A glycolic acid peel will not remove deep lines. However, a peel will often improve the tone, texture, smoothness and appearance of skin. If you're skin is extremely sensitive to waxing, electrolysis may not the answer for you. Electrolysis might further irritate your skin . We recommend you visit a salon in your area for a consultation with a trained professional who will access the level of your skin's sensitivity, and will advise you as to which method would work best for your skin type.

There are several alternatives to a Chemical Peel that can be performed alone or in conjunction with other treatments. From noninvasive to more invasive, these treatments include Microdermabrasion, the CoolTouch III Gentle Laser, the FotoFacial, Dermabrasion or injectable Fillers such as Collagen and Dermologen and Fat Transfer through injection.