Glycolic Acid is a resurfacing acid that is typically derived from sugar cane. It effectively removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells, helping to reveal new, radiant and healthier-looking skin.
Glycolic Acid belongs to Alpha Hydroxy Acid family, also known as AHA’s. Glycolic acid is the most studied amongst the AHA family and has shown to offer many benefits to the skin. It has the smallest molecular structure of all the alpha hydroxy acids which means it is easy for it to penetrate deeper into the skin and be very effective.
The main benefit of AHAs is their ability to exfoliate and help to repair dry, aging, and sun-damaged skin.
Glycolic Acid works by loosening the bonds that hold together the top layers of dead skin cells.
Skincare products that contain Glycolic Acid are often used to reduce appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, even out skin color and treat scarring.
But not all Glycolic Acid products are the same.
You can find this ingredients in a vast variety of skin care products such as facial cleansers, toners, serums, creams, masks and peels, but concentration of Glycolic Acid will vary in different products.
The ideal concentration of glycolic acid for home use varies from 8 to 30%.
Most face cleansers are somewhere between 8-10%, creams and serums can be 15%. You can find masks or peels that contain up to 30% concentration.
Professional use chemical peel solutions used by dermatologists may contain 30-70% concentration glycolic acid for in-office treatments.
You should also consider looking for products with lower pH level, which means they are more acidic.
Glycolic Acid can cause a tingling sensation when applied, which is normal. It shouldn’t cause the burning sensation. If you feel like your skin burning, most likely the concentration you applied is too high for you.
Here are the benefits of Glycolic Acid: - Exfoliates dead skin cells - Brightens and evens out skin tone - Unclogs pores - Boosts collagen production - Improves skin’s ability to maintain moisture - Gives the skin vibrant and luminous appearance - Helps other products absorb better Glycolic Acid is suitable for all skin types and all age groups, except for very sensitive skin. If your skin is very sensitive, you might find glycolic acid too irritating. If you trying Glycolic Acid for the first time, start off with a low percentage, and see how your skin adapts. * Note that all Alpha Hydroxy Acids make your skin a lot more sensitive to the sun, so you absolutely must use sun protection every day. * If your skin starts flaking - do not pick on it. It might cause scarring and pigmentation. Glycolic Acid might be the secret ingredient to help you achieve radiant complexion, healthy-looking and glowing skin you dream of, give it a try.
