What Does Glycolic Acid Do?
Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is widely used in skincare for its exfoliating and skin-renewing properties. It's derived from sugarcane and is known for its ability to improve the texture and appearance of the skin. Here's what glycolic acid does:
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Exfoliation: Glycolic acid works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. This exfoliation process helps to slough off these dead cells, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath.
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Cell Turnover: By promoting the shedding of dead skin cells, glycolic acid encourages the skin's natural process of cell turnover. This can result in a more youthful appearance and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
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Texture Improvement: Regular use of glycolic acid can lead to a smoother and more even skin texture. It can help minimize the appearance of pores and address issues like roughness and uneven skin tone.
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Hyperpigmentation: Glycolic acid can help lighten areas of hyperpigmentation such as age spots, sunspots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne scars. It does this by exfoliating the upper layers of the skin where pigment is often concentrated.
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Collagen Production: Some studies suggest that glycolic acid might stimulate collagen production in the skin. Collagen is a protein that contributes to skin's firmness and elasticity.
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Acne Treatment: Glycolic acid's exfoliating properties can help prevent clogged pores, making it beneficial for those with acne-prone skin. It can also improve the appearance of acne scars over time.
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Product Absorption: By removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, glycolic acid can enhance the absorption of other skincare products. This means that serums, moisturizers, and treatments applied after glycolic acid can penetrate more effectively.
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Professional Treatments: Glycolic acid is often used in professional chemical peels to provide more intense exfoliation and address specific skin concerns. In these treatments, higher concentrations of glycolic acid are used under the supervision of a skincare professional.
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Sun Sensitivity: Like other AHAs, glycolic acid can increase skin sensitivity to the sun. It's crucial to apply sunscreen daily when using products containing glycolic acid to protect your skin from potential sun damage.
When using glycolic acid, it's important to start with lower concentrations, especially if you're new to this ingredient, to allow your skin to build tolerance. It's also recommended to introduce glycolic acid gradually into your skincare routine to avoid potential irritation. Our range of Glycolic Acids start from very low up to 10%. Typically, above 10% concentrations are regarded as peels and need to be neutralized within a short duration after layering on the skin.
If you're unsure about the right concentration or products containing glycolic acid for your skin type, consulting a dermatologist or skincare professional can provide personalized guidance.
Photo by Sora Shimazaki: https://www.pexels.com/photo/crop-ethnic-woman-applying-nourishing-cream-on-face-at-home-5938245/