A glycolic acid home peel may not sound very attractive, but the results of this all-natural skin treatment can be significant. That’s why so many women and men are lining up to have a peel done.
In fact, as recently as 2011, facial peels were among the top five non-invasive dermatological procedures. Over a million people opt to undergo peels each year, which is why an entire niche opened up for a home version of the treatment.
Before considering the differences between doing a peel at home and having it done in your doctor’s office, it’s important to understand exactly what this treatment consists of.
As its name suggests, it is a procedure that involves applying a chemical solution to the face that will dissolve the outer layer of the skin and allow new, smoother, healthier skin to emerge.
Getting started with a glycolic face peel regimen
In most cases, a glycolic acid chemical peel is applied in a series of treatments, starting with a one-minute treatment and working up to a five-minute treatment.
In each case, after thoroughly cleansing and drying the skin to remove any excess dirt, the peel is applied with a gauze pad or fan brush in an even layer. After allowing the peel to remain on the face for one minute, it is then rinsed off, usually with a solution of baking soda and water.
After the initial application, further applications can be performed with the peel remaining on for a longer period each time until you gradually work your way up to leaving it on for five minutes.
Because the glycolic acid in the peel dissolves the outer layer of skin, it can have side effects similar to a sunburn, including redness, some mild tingling and peeling of the skin.
Glycolic peel benefits
The main benefit of a glycolic acid face peel is the natural exfoliation of the skin. This can help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, cleanse and clear blocked pores, stimulate collagen growth and promote the growth of new skin.
Deeper peels, which should only be performed in a doctor’s office, are used to remove pre-cancerous growths and moles and correct skin discoloration.
Professional glycolic acid peel vs Diy glycolic acid peel
As noted above, there is a wide range of facial peels available for home use, and the biggest question most people have is how these peels compare to those that you receive in the doctor’s office. For the most part, home peels are just superficial strength, meant to be used for light exfoliation and skin maintenance.
Any medium or deep peels should always be performed by a licensed dermatologist as they contain heavier solutions of acid, which can have serious side effects if not applied properly.
Of course the biggest difference between an office treatment and a diy home glycolic peel is the cost. In most cases, medium and deep peels can range anywhere from $1,000 to as much as $7,000.
In comparison, home peels cost between $15-$100, which is a significant difference. As with any facial treatment, you should always proceed carefully before applying a home peel.
The important thing about a glycolic acid home peel is that it is relatively quick, easy and affordable as well as being completely all-natural. Add in the convenience of performing the treatment in the comfort of your own home and it becomes all the more attractive.
But don’t forget that it is still a serious undertaking and you should thoroughly consider all of your options before deciding what’s best for you.