Glycolic acid desquamation

Buffered solutions of glycolic acid, when applied correctly, only produce virtual desquamation. Water-based glycolic acid does not penetrate evenly, and the risk of localized overpeeling, scabbing or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is not insignificant. 

Superficial peels Various chemicals have been used as peeling agents, out of which the most fruitful one is the alpha-hydroxy acid such as glycolic acid. Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) works inducing epidermolysis and subsequent desquamation within few... 

Because of the potential for the herpes virus, or possibly papilloma and pox virus, to spread into sites of freshly desquamated skin, active herpes simplex infections, facial warts or molluscum contagiosum would exclude a patient from receiving a glycolic acid peel. It is best recommended that these conditions be treated first and resolved before the peel is undertaken. 

Glycolic acid Very mild erythema Mild desquamation Short postoperative period Useful in photodamage Burning sensation and erythema during application No uniformity of application Requires neutralization Neaotic ulcerations if time of application is too long and/or skin pH is reduced Cautious application in patients with active acne... 

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