title: Alpha-hydroxy acids: unapproved uses or indications.
abstract: Alpha-hydroxy acids have been used for rejuvenation since ancient times, and now there are several on the market. Depending on the concentration, some have been shown to be effective as peeling agents and for rejuvenation. Glycolic acid and lactic acid are the alpha-hydroxy acids most frequently used in cosmetics, although there are many others used in combination. Some of the most striking advances in dermatology have followed the off-label use of drugs, which is widespread and unavoidable, but a well founded scientific approach to an individual patient's pathology must be emphasized as the number of products, regimens, and adjuncts increases exponentially in the cosmetic field. In this article the authors review some unapproved uses of alpha-hydroxy acids. More published data on the scientific value of these off-label indications that proves whether they are effective or not is needed.
authors.affiliation: Sector of Dermatology, HUCFF and School of Medicine, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. ramos.e.silva@dermato.med.br
authors.forename: Marcia
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ramos-e-Silva
authors.forename: Maria Cristina Ribeiro
authors.initials: MC
authors.lastname: de Castro
authors.forename: Sueli Coelho
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: da Silva Carneiro
authors.forename: W Clark
authors.initials: WC
authors.lastname: Lambert
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D006880:Hydroxy Acids / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology*; D007641:Keratolytic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology*
chemical_list: D006880:Hydroxy Acids; D007641:Keratolytic Agents