Although Lactic acid peels are safer than Glycolic acid peels, having better control of the peel without burning, Glycolic acid peels can exfoliate dead layers of the skin much faster and can always be neutralized with plain water. So this is one advantage. Moreover, they help reduce acne related skin conditions by releasing impacted debris from the pores, thereby improving the texture of the skin. Also, because of the smaller molecular size, Glycolic acid peels can go under the skin at once, producing results at a much faster rate and are therefore, ideal for people who do not have a photosensitive skin.

However, the pre-peel regimen for the Glycolic acid peel is vital for the success of the peel. It also includes patient compliance though most Glycolic home preparations having the maximum concentration of 10% and the pH usually is greater than 3.5% - but this is well tolerated by most. Nevertheless, these may be combined with bleaching agents in Fitzpatrick II, III, IV and V by all those people who want to reduce the chances of post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation and Tretinoin (Retin-A). But one thing should be kept in mind and this is that, although the technique of the Glycolic peel is similar to other peels, its depth is time-dependant and to halt its action, it should be immediately neutralized with water. And post-peel care must include sun-block for more surface peels and emollients till crusting takes place. For all those with a history of herpes, it is always better to use the peel as a precautionary measure at least from a couple of days prior to staring the peel. Here is a rough indication as to how often Glycolic acid peels may be used by an average person.

• Superficial peel (superficial papillary dermis – 0.06 mm) : Weekly
• Medium depth peel (papillary/ reticular dermis – 0.5 mm) : Every 6 to 12 months
• Deep peel (mid-reticular dermis – 0.6 mm) : Rarely more than once

The clinical and histological changes following peeling are caused by the changes that undergo within the superficial dermis and epidermis – the removal of the destroyed elastotic skin and reconstruction of this layer with neo-collagen after the wound gets healed. Biopsies, on the other hand, that is conducted 48 hours after phenol peeling reveals a kerato-coagulation necrosis of the epidermis that extends through the papillary dermis. This is often bordered by marked inflammatory reactions. However, regeneration of the epidermis begins within 48 hours and ends usually after a week, and the healed epidermis comes back to regular shape with the cells staining evenly and there is a return of vertical polarity. As for melanocytes, they are often found in increased density, though they become incapable of synthesizing the usual amount of melanin. Also, the melanocytes of the basilar layer include fine pigment particles that are evenly dispersed. This naturally eliminates the chances of formation of irregular pigmentation and lentigines.

The changes within the dermis as a result of the Glycolic acid peel can be amazing, vastly contrasting with adjacent un-peeled dermis. The newly formed matrix comprise parallel bunches of horizontally arranged collagen while there is a seemingly higher volume of elastic tissue within the papillary dermis that gives a fuller, smoother and younger appearance to the post-peel skin. It is generally believed that elastic tissue keeps fine and do not lose in volume for a long time – sometimes this is as long as 20 years after the peel. However, one may follow a few rules that have been described below for obtaining best results from a glycolic acid peel.

• It may be fruitful to find an esthetician or a medical practitioner to apply the peel. While the esthetician can apply mild glycolic peels as a form of facial, the doctor would be the best person to apply deeper peels. And if you are doing this yourself, always do so only after you have adequate information.
• People having a history of keloid scars or severe sunburn should avoid deep glycolic acid peels.
• One should prepare for the peel, starting as much as four weeks ahead of the actual peeling is to happen. If you are having Retin-A – then stop taking this. Also, exfoliation with abrasive sponge or cleaner should be avoided.
• Once the glycolic acid peel is applied, it should be allowed to sit on the skin for a few minutes and you should not be disturbing this. Its action starts when the person starts feeling a burning or tingling sensation at the site of the application. This might be slightly uncomfortable, but you have to accept this.
• As soon as there is uneasiness or a severe burning sensation in the skin, the peel should be neutralized with cold water.
• Sunscreen should be applied regularly after the peel is over.