From the Guidelines
For treating white scars, a glycolic acid peel concentration of 50-70% is recommended, with 50% being a suitable starting point. According to the guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris 1, glycolic acid peels are available in concentrations ranging from 20-70%, and for superficial peels, a concentration of 50-70% is applied for 2-5 minutes.
- The treatment regimen usually involves applying the peel every 15 days for 4-6 months, as indicated in the guidelines 1.
- Each application should remain on the skin for 2-5 minutes, depending on skin sensitivity and previous reactions, with higher concentrations and longer application times used for more severe scarring.
- Prior to treatment, the skin should be prepped with a lower concentration glycolic acid product to build tolerance, although the exact concentration and duration are not specified in the guidelines 1.
- It's essential to use proper neutralization techniques and follow with intensive moisturization and strict sun protection (SPF 30+) daily to minimize adverse effects, such as postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and erosive blisters and scarring 1.
- For optimal results, combining glycolic acid peels with other treatments like microneedling or laser therapy may be beneficial for more stubborn white scars, although this is not explicitly stated in the guidelines 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
This formula contains an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) which can increase skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Our pads help clear your complexion and minimize the appearance of pores This plant based formula contains Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid for a gentle chemical exfoliation that help refresh your surface skin cell layer and energize your skin. OARS+ALPS ANTI- EVERYTHING PAD With 10% Glycolic Acid
The recommended percent glycolic acid peel concentration is 10% for general use, but there is no specific information provided for treating white scars.
- The provided drug label does not directly address the treatment of white scars with glycolic acid peels.
- The 10% concentration is mentioned as part of a formula for general skin care use, not specifically for treating scars. 2
From the Research
Glycolic Acid Peel Concentration for Treating White Scars
- The recommended concentration of glycolic acid (GA) peel for treating white scars is not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but we can look at the concentrations used for treating atrophic acne scars and superficial scarring.
- A study published in 2000 3 found that repetitive peels with 70% concentration of glycolic acid provided superior results compared to lower concentrations and long-term daily use of low-strength products.
- Another study published in 2022 4 compared the efficacy of microneedling versus 35% glycolic acid chemical peels for the treatment of acne scars and found that microneedling provided better treatment outcomes.
- A study published in 2019 5 found that the combination of microneedling and glycolic acid peel was more effective than monotherapy for the treatment of atrophic acne scars.
- A study published in 2003 6 investigated the use of topical glycolic acid in concentrations of 10-30% for the treatment of superficial scarring and found it to be useful.
- A study published in 2001 7 found that peeling with 70% glycolic acid for 2 minutes provided significant improvement in superficial post acne scarring.
Concentration Options
- 20% glycolic acid peel: used in a study published in 2000 3 but found to be less effective than higher concentrations.
- 35% glycolic acid peel: used in studies published in 2022 4 and 2019 5 but found to be less effective than microneedling or combination therapy.
- 50% glycolic acid peel: used in a study published in 2000 3 but found to be less effective than 70% concentration.
- 70% glycolic acid peel: used in studies published in 2000 3 and 2001 7 and found to provide superior results for the treatment of atrophic acne scars and superficial post acne scarring.