Glycolic Acid Peel
Smooth texture and reveal radiance
At a Glance
Pain Level
Mild tingling
Downtime
Light flaking for 3-5 days
Sessions
Course of 3-6 recommended
Duration
45 minutes
Results
Visible after the first session
Frequency
Every 2-4 weeks
What is Glycolic Acid Peel?
A glycolic acid peel is a professional exfoliating treatment designed to dissolve surface skin cells and promote rapid cell turnover. Due to its deep-penetrating properties, glycolic acid is ideal for treating uneven skin tone, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. At Ivory Aesthetics Clinic, we utilize this targeted approach to enhance both skin tone and texture, delivering radiant, refined results with minimal downtime.
Benefits
- Superficial exfoliation
- Improves skin tone and texture
- Brightens complexion
- Reduces fine lines and mild pigmentation
- Enhances product absorption
Is This Right for You?
Adults with dull, uneven skin tone, mild pigmentation, enlarged pores, fine lines, or early ageing, and those wanting a versatile, well-tolerated AHA peel suitable for monthly maintenance and a reliable brightening boost..
You may benefit if you have:
- Dull or uneven skin tone
- Mild pigmentation
- Fine lines
- Acne-prone skin
- Enlarged pores
Pre-Treatment Care
- Drink 1.5-2 litres of water daily for 48 hours before
- Discontinue retinoids, other AHAs/BHAs, and exfoliating scrubs 5 days prior
- Avoid unprotected sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanner for 2 weeks before
- Do not wax, thread, or epilate the area for 48 hours before
- Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin
- If you have a cold sore history, start antiviral prophylaxis 24 hours before
- Tell us about photosensitising medications (doxycycline, isotretinoin, St John's wort)
Post-Treatment Care
- Drink 2 litres of water daily for 5-7 days to support skin renewal
- Apply a fragrance-free barrier moisturiser morning and night for at least 3 days
- Apply SPF 50+ every morning, reapplied every 2 hours outdoors, for at least 2 weeks
- Expect mild redness, tightness, or light flaking for 3-5 days
- Do not pick or scrub the flaking skin
- Pause retinoids, other AHAs/BHAs, and vitamin C for 5-7 days
- Avoid heat (saunas, hot yoga, hot showers) for 24-48 hours
- Skip makeup for 24 hours; mineral makeup thereafter
- Book your next session in 2-4 weeks for cumulative brightening
Who This Treatment Is Not Suitable For
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This treatment may not be right for you if any of the following apply. Please discuss your full medical history with us during consultation.
- Active infections or open wounds
- Sensitive or compromised skin barrier
- Recent isotretinoin use (within 6 months)
- Severe rosacea or dermatitis
- Allergy to AHA products
- Recent aggressive treatments
Frequently Asked Questions
What is glycolic acid and why is it so popular?
Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. It has the smallest molecule size of any AHA, which means it penetrates deeply and effectively. It works by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting rapid cell turnover, stimulating collagen, and delivering a smoother, brighter complexion.
What strength do you use?
We use professional concentrations ranging from 20% to 70% depending on your skin type, concerns, and peel history. Beginners start at 20-30%; experienced clients with tougher pigmentation or ageing concerns may graduate to 50-70%. Always customised at consultation.
How is it different from lactic or mandelic acid?
All are AHAs. Glycolic has the smallest molecule, most penetrating, most anti-ageing effect, but also more potential for irritation. Lactic acid is larger, more hydrating, gentler on sensitive skin. Mandelic is largest, gentlest, and best for Fitzpatrick V - VI. Your therapist will pick the right one for your skin.
How many sessions will I need?
A course of 4-6 sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart. Results are progressive, smoother texture, brighter tone, and refined pores build across the course. Monthly maintenance preserves the effect.
Will my skin peel visibly?
At lower concentrations, light flaking for 2-3 days. At 50%+ strengths, visible peeling for 5-7 days is expected. We'll prepare you with the right expectations based on your peel.
Is it safe for darker skin tones?
Yes, but with priming. For Fitzpatrick IV - VI we recommend 2-4 weeks of tyrosinase inhibitors (kojic acid, arbutin) before the first peel and build concentration gradually to avoid post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Ready to Book?
Start with a personalised consultation. Our experts will assess your skin and recommend the best approach for you.
Book This TreatmentWhatsApp Us+971 4 330 6464Mon - Sat: 10 AM - 7 PM
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