Salicylic Acid Peels for the Treatment of Photoaging

Several chemical agents are currently used to perform superficial chemical peels of the face. These include trichloracetic acid (15-30%), alpha-hydroxy acids (e.g., glycolic acid, 40-70%), and Jessner's solution (14% lactic acid, 14% resorcinol, and 14% salicylic acid). We have developed salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, at a higher strength (30% in a hydro-ethanolic vehicle) as an alternative peel. This peel has distinct 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.