Nail Peeling with Glycolic Acid 50%: A Prospective Study of 20 Cases

Abstract

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Surface abnormalities of the nail may be due to nail diseases or chemical abuse. So, every nail plate change does not require medical treatment. The aim of our study was to support the benefit of glycolic acid (GA) in both pathological conditions and dry, discolored nails due to cosmetics. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> A prospective single open label uncontrolled study is conducted in our department from January until April 2017. We divided our cases into 2 groups: G1 (consequences of cosmetics) and G2 (pathological conditions). In G1, we used 1–2 coat of GA 50% in 1–2 sitting at weekly intervals, but we needed multiple sittings (6–12 weeks) in G2 with 2–4 coats. <b><i>Results:</i></b> We have collected 20 cases: 12 in G1 and 8 in G2. In G1, 8 patients had good response. In G2, 6 had good response. Adverse effects were tolerable. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Good response in G1 was also noted in the Indian report. The improvement in the chemotherapy side effect led us to widen the sample in order to have more credible results. GA 50% peels can offer aesthetically better looking nails. However, larger studies with a longer follow-up are required to validate the results.