A Glycolic Acid Facial is a professional exfoliating treatment that uses glycolic acid — an alpha hydroxy acid derived from sugar cane — to dissolve dead skin cells, unclog pores, and stimulate fresh cell turnover. The result is smoother texture, brighter skin tone, reduced fine lines, and better absorption of skincare products used afterward.
At Healing Skin Medical Aesthetics, Glycolic Acid Facials are performed by Dr. Cecilia Rusnak — an acupuncture physician, Doctor of Oncology Pain Management, and paramedical expert with over three decades of clinical experience. Dr. Rusnak selects the glycolic acid strength and formulation specifically for your skin type and goals, treating every acid facial as a precise clinical procedure rather than a generic spa service.
Non-Invasive: This Glycolic Acid Facial is non-invasive, involving the application of a glycolic acid solution to the skin without the need for surgery or injections.
How It Works:
Treatment Areas: Typically performed on the face, but can also be applied to the neck, chest, and hands.
Session Duration: Each session usually lasts between 30 to 60 minutes.
Results: Immediate improvements in skin texture and brightness can be seen, with more significant results developing over multiple sessions.
Step 1: Consultation & Skin Assessment (15 minutes)
Dr. Rusnak examines your skin, reviews your skincare history and any retinoid or exfoliant use, and selects the appropriate glycolic acid strength for your skin.
Step 2: Deep Cleansing & Prep (10 minutes)
Your skin is thoroughly cleansed and prepped with a pre-treatment solution to optimize acid penetration and even coverage.
Step 3: Glycolic Acid Application (10-15 minutes)
The glycolic acid is applied with precision. You may feel a mild tingling or warmth — this is normal. Dr. Rusnak monitors your skin response continuously and neutralizes the acid at the right moment.
Step 4: Neutralization & Soothing (10 minutes)
The acid is neutralized and a calming, hydrating mask or serum is applied to restore comfort.
Step 5: Finishing & Sun Protection (10 minutes)
Hydrating moisturizer and mineral SPF are applied. Dr. Rusnak provides home care instructions for the following days.
A Glycolic Acid Facial is a highly effective, professional treatment that delivers visible results — but only when performed by a clinician who understands skin. Over-the-counter glycolic products are effective for gentle maintenance, but professional-strength glycolic (at the levels Dr. Rusnak uses clinically) is what produces the dramatic brightening, smoothing, and resurfacing effects.
Most patients see results after a single session, but a series of 3 to 6 treatments spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart produces the most dramatic transformation. Dr. Rusnak often combines glycolic facials with Collagen Induction Therapy, LED therapy, or our signature facials for comprehensive skincare plans. For at-home maintenance, we recommend medical-grade skincare from Dr. Rusnak Wellness.
Glycolic Acid Facial pricing depends on session count and whether you combine with LED or other enhancements.
| Treatment | Investment |
|---|---|
| Single Glycolic Facial Session | $145 – $195 |
| Series Package (3 sessions) | $395 – $525 |
| Series Package (6 sessions, recommended for transformation) | $725 – $995 |
| Glycolic + LED Combo | $195 – $275 |
Healing Skin offers flexible financing through Cherry, Klarna, and Affirm (up to 24 months).
Glycolic acid dissolves dead skin cells on the surface, unclogs pores, stimulates fresh cell turnover, and triggers collagen production at deeper levels. Results include smoother texture, brighter tone, reduced fine lines, and clearer skin.
Most patients describe mild tingling or warmth during application. Dr. Rusnak monitors your skin response continuously and neutralizes the acid at the right moment. It’s not painful, just active.
Minimal. Your skin may be slightly pink for a few hours after treatment. Some patients experience light flaking or peeling over the following 2-5 days — this is normal and reveals fresh skin underneath.
For a single transformative result, one session helps. For dramatic results, a series of 3 to 6 sessions spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart works best. Maintenance is typically monthly after that.
Avoid retinoids, vitamin C, and other active skincare for 5 to 7 days after a glycolic facial to let skin fully recover. Dr. Rusnak provides a home care schedule at your appointment.
Yes, when performed by a trained clinician at appropriate strengths. Dr. Rusnak adjusts acid strength and application time for each patient’s skin type to minimize any risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Absolutely. Dr. Rusnak often pairs glycolic facials with LED therapy, microneedling, or our signature facials for comprehensive plans.
Glycolic facials at lower concentrations may be safe during pregnancy, but we discuss with your obstetrician first. We avoid stronger peel-level treatments during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Critical. Your skin is more sensitive to UV for at least 2 weeks after a glycolic facial. Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily is essential to prevent pigmentation issues and protect your results.
No. Glycolic facials are cosmetic and not covered. Financing is available through Cherry, Klarna, and Affirm.
Glycolic Acid Facials at Healing Skin Medical Aesthetics are led by Dr. Cecilia Rusnak — LME, AP, DAc, Doctor of Oncology Pain Management, with over three decades of clinical experience. Dr. Rusnak will examine your skin, select the right glycolic strength, and design a treatment plan. Call (689) 288-8011 during business hours to schedule your consultation.