ABSTRACT
Cosmetic application of glycolic acid Since the application of glycolic acid at first reduces the thickness of the epidermis, the skin can no longer provide the same protection against light, and it is essential to use effective sun protection to avoid the risk of accelerated photoaging. A glycolic acid cream or gel can easily be prepared in a pharmacy dispensary, at concentrations of 8-15%. There are many commercial preparations of glycolic acid that have the combined advantage of spreading evenly and a galenical form that allows better penetration of the acid. These low-concentration, daily topical treatments are mainly indicated for preparing the skin for other techniques, for follow-up treatment between peels or for maintenance treatment afterwards. In general, patients who use glycolic acid as a cosmetic do not expect or will not accept any flaking. If the skin does flake, treatment should be stopped and started again a few days later at a lower concentration (or warm water can be sprayed on the face before applying the glycotic acid cream to dilute it).
