Keratosis pilaris is quite a common condition which affects a person’s skin. It is a complicated name for something which is completely harmless but is considered to be aesthetically annoying to those who suffer from it. Those who do have keratosis pilaris are often afflicted with poor self perception and feel very self conscience about it. The condition known as keratosis pilaris is most often a result of genetics, but is also associated with a variety of other skin conditions. It can occur on all skin types and becomes worse when the skin is dry. During the winter season, because of the dry weather, keratosis pilaris can become worse. It happens most often in females and sometimes clears itself up in adulthood. Keratosis pilaris looks like tiny bumps on the surface of the skin – similar to what goosebumps look like except they do not go away. The area feels rough and when it lacks moisture, the skin may also feel itchy. Keratosis pilaris is connected to the process of keratin production. Keratin is an insoluble protein found in hair and nails as well as the most outer layer of the skin. It acts as a barrier against infections. Excess production of keratin will clog the pores and hair follicles which creates the appearance of the tiny bumps on the skin. Chemical peels which contain AHA’s (alpha hydroxy acids) have been used with success to treat keratosis pilaris. Because it is hereditary and there is no known cure, the condition will not completely subside but it can be significantly improved through the use of glycolic acid chemical peel products and other AHA peel products such as lactic acid. Glycolic acid peels work to remove the dead outer layer of skin cells which can unclog the pores to reveal smoother skin. The glycolic peels can be done every couple of weeks to achieve the best results and in between treatments a glycolic acid moisturizer will help to maintain the smoother skin. If you suffer from keratosis pilaris and you are ready to try a chemical peel to treat the condition, Skin Rx recommends starting out with a 30% glycolic acid peel or 30% lactic acid peel. For maintenance in between chemical peel treatments, try Glycolic Smoothing Gel. With a consistent skin care routine including the glycolic acid or lactic peels, the skin will begin to look and feel smoother.

Glycolic acid peels are often used by people who want to improve their skin's appearance and overall condition. Glycolic acid renews the skin by removing old skin cells from the surface and allowing new skin to regenerate. Glycolic peels can also be used to help clear up acne by removing debris from clogged pores and to reduce hyper-pigmentation of the skin. Glycolic acid peels are often performed at spas but can become quite expensive after repeated treatments. Fortunately, a glycolic acid home peel can be easily purchased online and are now readily available. Glycolic acid home peels are much more affordable for the average person. As a precaution, anyone who will be performing a glycolic acid peel at home should be sure to perform a skin patch test beforehand to ensure no allergies to the product exist. Step 1: Wash Your Face With a mild cleanser, wash your entire face where the glycolic facial peel will be applied. Rinse thoroughly to remove all of the cleanser and then gently pat your face dry with a towel. Before applying any glycolic treatment to your face, you need to make sure you start with a clean surface to ensure the product penetrates the skin evenly. Step 2: Apply a Toner Apply a toner to your skin with a cotton pad or cotton ball and allow it to dry on your skin. This extra step will wipe away any dirt or residue which may have been left after cleansing your face. Do not rinse the toner off, as it contains ingredients to refresh and calm your skin before you apply your glycolic facial peel. Step 3: Apply Glycolic Acid with Applicator Brush Preferably using the applicator brush in the Glycolic Peel Kit, apply an even coat of the glycolic treatment to your face. Leave the peel on your face for the recommended time - no more and no less. Leaving glycolic acid products on your skin for too long can damage your skin and not leaving it on long enough will not produce the desired results. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully. Step 4: Rinse and Wash Rinse the glycolic peel treatment off of your face thoroughly, and then apply a mild cleanser. Wash your face gently to ensure the glycolic facial peel is completely washed away from the skin so that irritation does not occur from any residue. Special Tips When applying a glycolic acid peel, keep the product about one quarter-inch away from the eye area and mucus membranes. If your skin becomes irritated after glycolic acid products are applied, immediately rinse your skin and consult with your personal doctor. Do not attempt to use glycolic peels on any open wounds or otherwise irritated or highly sensitive skin. Avoid being exposed to the sun for at least one full day after applying the glycolic treatment. Additionally, do not apply a glycolic facial peel to skin that has been shaved within 24 hours. When using a peel, it is normal to feel a slight stinging sensation but if it hurts too much or is extremely uncomfortable, rinse it off immediately. Your skin might be a bit red after using glycolic acid products, however, the redness will gradually fade away as your skin calms. Before you buy glycolic acid for home use, be sure to purchase from a reputable source that only sells high quality skin care products.