What Is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. It is used in a variety of skin care products to exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, acne, dark spots, and other skin issues. Glycolic acid works by breaking down the bonds between skin cells, allowing them to be sloughed off and replaced with new, healthy cells.
What Are the Benefits of Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is a powerful exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells and other debris from the surface of the skin. This helps to reveal brighter, smoother skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and even out skin tone. Glycolic acid can also help to reduce acne and other skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. It also helps to reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Finally, glycolic acid helps to improve skin moisture by boosting the production of collagen and elastin.
How to Use Glycolic Acid Safely
Glycolic acid is a powerful chemical skincare ingredient and should always be used with caution. Always wear sunscreen when using glycolic acid, as it can make skin more sensitive to the sun. Additionally, start with the lowest concentration of glycolic acid and slowly increase as your skin adjusts. If using at–home products, always patch test first on a small area of skin before using a product all over. And if you experience any redness, stinging, or burning, stop using it immediately.
How to Choose the Right Glycolic Acid Product for You
When choosing a glycolic acid product, it is important to consider your skin type and what your goals are. For example, if you have sensitive skin, you should opt for a product with a lower concentration of glycolic acid. If you are looking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles or acne, you should opt for a higher-concentration product. Additionally, you should consider the other ingredients in the product to ensure that they are suitable for your skin type.
