One of the more common agents for superficial peels,
glycolic acid, is an alpha hydroxyl acid. The acid’s effects are
neutralized after a specific amount of time, and post-treatment instructions are given, with very mild redness expected to last a
few days, and dry flaking skin for a bit longer. The after effects
of this type of peel are easily concealed with moisturizers and
makeup.

Other peel options include Jessner’s solution and salicylic
acid. Salicylic acid peels are very lipophilic, so they are
particularly useful for active acne vulgaris.

As a general class, superficial peels are ideal for troublesome
acne, mild dyspigmentation, and superficial scarring and wrinkles. These peels affect the outermost layers of skin, are safe, and
usually are applied sequentially, over a period of a few months, increasing the concentration of the agent with each subsequent
visit. Because of the superficial nature of these peels, a series of
6 is usually recommend, and performed at two to three week
intervals.