I was wondering if there was a big difference between using the gel peel and liquid peels? Which would be best for me? (photos)

Question

Hi. I've suffered from acne since I was 6th or 7th grade. I am now 18 and it hasn't gotten any better. I've tried just about every acne product (or so it feels like) but I haven't had any satisfying results. I've read up and done a lot of research and even watched a view videos on Glycolic acid. I'm thinking of starting maybe a 35% percentage. I have a lot of acne spots and scars and I would love to even my skin-tone out also with rest of my body.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Acne can be quite the challenge to deal
with but please remember you are not alone. 
Now would be the time to go see a medical professional and have them
perform a consultation to better assess your skin.  In my opinion acids are best used in liquid
form (unless its part of your daily home care regime).  Liquid will absorb faster than gels.  Glycolic acid is great for certain skin issues
or for maintaining great looking skin but I would recommend another acid.  A modified Jessner peel would be a much
better treatment than the Glycolic.  We
perform these peels at my office and have had excellent results with our acne
patients, it also works great on scarring and evening out skin tone and
texture.

Peter J. Capizzi, MD · Answer

It can be tough to feel like you are struggling every day to have clear skin. I am happy that you are doing some research before jumping in to any chemical peels. I see that your skin is darker. Something to keep in mind with ethnic skin, while it is beautiful it is extremely sensitive. This means that your skin can have a stronger reaction to a peel and the peel could have adverse effects. Many people with darker skin experience PIH which is Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation. That means that sometimes people with darker skin will temporarily  hyperpigment in reaction to a peel. Applying a hydrocortisone creme to the skin post peel will help to decrease PIH.  As far as choosing the right peel and the right strength, it is best to speak with an experienced, licensed, professional to determine what is best for you. Not all peels and strengths are created equal. Company A may have a 35% gylcolic and Company B may also have a 35% glycolic but they are not at all equal. When trying to decide between a gel or a liquid peel, again it depends on the manufacturer and the product line. It is best to speak with your service provider and together you can come up with a plan. One may be extremely mild, while the other could be surprisingly strong, even if they are both gel or both liquid, or both 20% etc. If it's your 1st peel, start with something more mild and over 3-6 months of regular peels work your way up in strength. A rule of thumb is that generally speaking, lactic acid is good to address pigment and salicylic acid is good to address breakouts. If you want to do some research, research the medical facility or medical spa you would like to visit and learn about the treatment provider. Having a knowledgeable, caring and experienced provider can make the difference between a fantastic or horrendous experience.

I was wondering if there was a big difference between using the gel peel and liquid peels? Which would be best for me? (photos)

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I was wondering if there was a big difference between using the gel peel and liquid peels? Which would be best for me? (photos)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.