Glycolic acid peels for the treatment of wrinkles and photoaging

J Dermatol Surg Oncol. 1993 Mar;19(3):243-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.1993.tb00343.x.

Abstract

Background: Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxyacid that is useful as a chemical peeling agent.

Objective: To discuss the techniques using glycolic acid to remove actinic keratoses, fine wrinkles, lentigines, melasma, and seborrheic keratoses.

Method: Applied in a carefully timed manner, the depth of penetration can be titrated by the timed duration of application of acid on the skin. Chemical peels are left on the skin for 3 to 7 minutes for most patients. For ideal results, the chemical peel can be repeated 3 to 4 times.

Result: Glycolic acid can easily be used to peel skin of all skin types with minimal risk.

Conclusion: We have found glycolic acid can be an ideal adjunct to other cosmetic modalities such as soft tissue augmentation.

MeSH terms

  • Chemexfoliation / methods*
  • Face / surgery*
  • Female
  • Glycolates / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Skin Aging*

Substances

  • Glycolates
  • glycolic acid