Glycolic Acid for Acne: 7 Precautions
Glycolic acid treatments for acne can be very effective in treating the condition. Glycolic acid is a natural substance that is made from sugar canes and some fruits, and is classified under the category of alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs.
Glycolic acid works as an exfoliating agent, which means that it removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Although glycolic acid can provide a great deal of benefits for those suffering from acne, including unclogging the pores to prevent further outbreaks – there are some necessary precautions that users should be aware of prior to undertaking any type of glycolic acid treatment.
We discuss glycolic acid and how it works for acne in our article, Glycolic Acid for Acne: An Overview. Let’s look at some of the precautions and side effects you should be aware of regarding glycolic acid treatments and glycolic acid peels and considerations you should make beforehand.
Glycolic Acid Precaution #1: Over the Counter Products
Government regulations and guidelines for glycolic acid use in products call for a concentration of ten percent or less. Anything greater is considered to be hazardous for human use. Additionally, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel has stated that the glycolic acid used in consumer products should have a PH level of 3.5 more and be manufactured in a manner that will protect from harmful skin sensitivity or photosensitivity as well.
Glycolic Acid Precaution #2: Prescription Strength Glycolic Acid
Prescription strength glycolic acid products are substantially stronger than those that you can buy at the corner pharmacy. Because of this, be forewarned that you may experience more significant side effects from these types of products. For those who are having a glycolic acid peel, the strength of concentration in these products is often as much as 50%.
Following treatment, skin that is treated with glycolic acid in this concentration may appear extremely sunburned. It is important to protect the skin from sunlight during this time and to nurture the skin with any after-care creams, lotions, or ointments that your dermatologist recommends.
Glycolic Acid Precaution #3: Sensitivity to Sun
All products containing glycolic acid should have a warning label advising users about the need for protection from the sun following use. All users should wear sun block following the use glycolic acid and when possible – avoid the sun altogether to minimize sensitivity. Protective clothing is advisable when users will be out in the sun.
Glycolic Acid Precaution #4: Stinging and Burning
Those using or planning to use glycolic acid treatments and peels should be aware of the stinging and/or burning sensation that accompanies treatment. Although this is a normal reaction to the acidic properties of the treatment, it can become very uncomfortable and may last for a few hours or as long as a day. There is also an increased risk of infection in some patients when having glycolic acid treatments.
Glycolic Acid Precaution #5: Swelling
Following the application of a glycolic acid treatment, it is completely normal for some slight swelling of the face or other affected areas to occur. The face may also appear to have some signs of hyperpigmentation, or appear darker than usual. Users may also see small patches of white appear on the face. It will take around seven days following the initial treatment for skin to look “normal” again.
Glycolic Acid Precaution #6: Itching
Itching is another common side effect that those who have glycolic acid treatments will experience in most cases. This itching occurs as the skin peels. Those users who experience itching should avoid intense scratching as this can further irritate the facial area; in some instances, scratching can cause scarring.
Glycolic Acid Precaution #7: Deep Glycolic Acid Peels
With deeper glycolic acid peels, some users have reported unbearable pain. The dermatologist administering the peel can prescribe medication for the pain. With a deep peel, the entire face may be heavily swelled for days following the procedure.
