SALICYLIC-ACID PEELS FOR THE TREATMENT OF PHOTOAGING

Several chemical agents are currently used to perform superficial chem ical peels of the face. These include trichloracetic acid (15-30%), al pha-hydroxy acids (eg, glycolic acid, 40-70%), and Jessner's solution (14% lactic acid, 14% resorcinol, and 14% salicylic acid). We have dev eloped salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, at a higher strength (30% in a hydro-ethanolic vehicle) as an alternative peel. This peel has di stinct advantages for resurfacing moderately photodamaged facial skin. We have peeled patients singly and multiply at 4-week intervals. The benefits are fading of pigment spots, decreased surface roughness, and reduction of fine lines. (C) 1998 by the American Society for Dermato logic Surgery, Inc.