Performing a glycolic acid peel on intimate areas?

The skin of intimate areas is sensitive and prone to issues such as roughness, discolouration, and loss of elasticity due to factors like shaving, hormonal changes, or friction. Theglycolic acid, with its exfoliating and moisturising properties, can offer solutions to improve the appearance and texture of the skin in these regions. When used at appropriate and low concentrations, it has the potential to address various skin concerns safely. Here are some of the main benefits that glycolic acid peels could offer for the intimate area.

• Exfoliation: Glycolic acid is recognised for its small molecular size, which allows it to effectively penetrate the skin and break down dead skin cells, revealing a smoother surface. In intimate areas, the skin can become rough due to factors such as shaving, friction or hormonal changes. The exfoliating properties of glycolic acid can help to improve texture and softness. Low concentrations, typically around 5 to 10%, are recommended for use in sensitive areas to minimise the risk of irritation. For hyperpigmentation, the exfoliating effect can also help to even out the skin's complexion.

• Clarification: Theglycolic acid has been demonstrated as an inhibitor of tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for the production of melanin, which can help to lighten dark spots and even out skin tone. This can be beneficial for intimate areas prone to discolouration or hyperpigmentation. Studies have shown that regular use of AHA, including glycolic acid, can effectively reduce hyperpigmentation.

• Smoothing: It has been discovered that glycolic acid promotes the production of collagen, which is crucial for maintaining the firmness and elasticity of the skin. Increased collagen levels can contribute to smoother skin, which may benefit the intimate area. Reviews suggest that AHAs like glycolic acid can stimulate collagen synthesis and improve skin elasticity when used consistently at appropriate concentrations.

• Hydration: Glycolic acid also plays a role in enhancing the skin's hydration barrier. By improving the skin's moisture retention capabilities, it ensures that the area remains hydrated and nourished. Lower concentrations of glycolic acid have shown to improve hydration by promoting the skin's barrier function, making it ideal for sensitive areas.

Although there are commercial products available that claim to assist with discolouration in the bikini area, there is limited research on the safety of using high concentrations of glycolic acid on this sensitive area. Typically, glycolic acid concentrations ranging from 5% to 10% are found in over-the-counter products, while higher concentrations are reserved for professional use.

The intimate area is thinner and more prone to irritation compared to other areas, thus making it more susceptible to side effects, such as redness, burning, and increased sensitivity. Theoveruse of glycolic acid can compromise the skin barrier and cause discomfort. For optimal results, it is recommended to use professional chemical peels at higher concentrations under expert supervision, as they can be tailored to different skin types and individual needs.

However, there is currently no conclusive study confirming that the lower concentrations found in over-the-counter products are sufficiently effective to provide significant and lasting results in intimate areas. Therefore, while these products may offer light exfoliation and hydration, their ability to address issues such as hyperpigmentation or improving texture remains uncertain.

Nevertheless, we recommend using these products with caution and to seek professional advice when using higher concentrations. It is always advisable to perform a tolerance test on a small area of skin to identify any potential adverse reactions. Start by using the glycolic acid sparingly, then gradually increase the frequency based on skin tolerance to avoid excessive exfoliation and irritation.

• FUNASAK Y. & al. Biological effects of glycolic acid on dermal matrix metabolism mediated by dermal fibroblasts and epidermal keratinocytes. Experimental Dermatology (2003).

• KORNHAUSER A. & al. Applications of hydroxy acids: Classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2010).

• GALADARI H. & al. Chemical peeling in ethnic skin: An update. British Journal of Dermatology (2013).

• SHARAD J. Glycolic acid peel therapy: A current review. Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology (2013).

• MUKOVOZOV I. & al. Topical AHA in dermatology: Formulations, mechanisms of action, efficacy, and future perspectives. Cosmetics (2023).