Identification

• Derived from sugar cane, glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is included in many skin-care products and is formulated into a chemical peel of varying strengths.
  
  

Texture

• Glycolic acid peels remove the upper layers of dead skin, stimulating healthy, new growth of skin cells and collagen. After a glycolic acid peel, hands have a smoother, softer texture and look younger.
  
  

Pigmentation

• The glycolic acid peel decreases signs of sun damage and can remove freckles and other pigmentation problems such as age spots or minor color irregularities.
  
  

Moisture

• Benefits of a glycolic acid peel on the hands include increased skin moisture and relief from dry and rough skin areas.
  
  

Location

• Glycolic acid peels are performed at dermatologist offices, beauty salons and skin care clinics. Glycolic acid peel products also are available for home use.