Well, the word ‘acid’ may bring thoughts of chemical burns for most of us. But when used in the right proportions, acids are some of the most amazing components in skincare products. You may be surprised to know that they are the magical tool used to treat acne, wrinkles, age spots, and uneven skin tone. One such acid that is potential in combatting acne and enhancing skin health is glycolic acid. This alpha hydroxy acid is obtained from sugarcane which helps to treat several common skin woes.

glycolic acid main image

Read this article to know what glycolic acid is, and how to use it for your skincare.

What Is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is a water-soluble alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) made from sugar cane and one of the most widely used AHAs in cosmetics and skincare essentials. AHAs are natural acids found in plants that comprise tiny molecules and are very easy for the skin to absorb. This property makes them ideal for fading away fine lines, enhancing skin texture and delaying signs of ageing.

Also Read: Ceramides: Discover The Surprising Beauty Benefits Of This Fatty Acid

How Does Glycolic Acid Work?

Glycolic acid is made up of the smallest-sized molecules of all the AHAs, which lets acid easily penetrate the skin and exfoliate it much better than other AHAs. Glycolic acid speeds up the cell turnover by dissolving the bonds that hold skin cells together. Thereby helping the skin to fend off dead skin cells more quickly.

Glycolic acid activates the skin to produce more collagen, the protein that makes your skin look firm, plump, and elastic. It also offers strength to the bones and connective tissues. Also, as you age skin makes very less collagen. It is also damaged when you spend more time in the sun. Thus, using glycolic acid in your regular skincare regimen can prevent the breakdown of collagen.

Skin Healing Benefits of Glycolic Acid

  • Anti-aging: It works remarkably well to smooth fine lines, and wrinkles and enhances skin tone and complexion
  • Hydrates: It locks the moisture, plumps the skin, and averts it from getting dry
  • Protects From Sun Damage: It supports diminishing dark patches and pigmentation caused due to suntan and shields collagen from the sun
  • Enhance Skin Complexion: It revitalizes the skin's radiance and complexion when used regularly
  • Exfoliate: It averts the growth of unwanted hair and unclogs the pores in the skin by shedding dead skin cells and making the skin look clear
  • Combats Acne: It is a key ingredient for treating acne breakouts by stimulating cell turnover and regulating blackheads, and back acne breakouts

 

Also Read: Skin Barrier Role And Function: 5 Effective Ways To Shield This Protective Layer

How To Use Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is available in various forms including over the counter (OTC) and prescription treatments, these include:

  • Face washes
  • Lotions
  • Peels
  • Serums
  • Skincare pads

Things To Know Before Using Glycolic Acid:

Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliant and not scrub, the acid can diffuse deeper and produce greater exfoliation over time. So, you don’t need to exfoliate with scrubs when using glycolic acid, as your face may feel very sensitive.

Always go for one product containing glycolic acid and don’t use multiple ones. With occasional spot treatments, it should be adequate to maintain skin health and complexion.

Wear sunscreen whenever you are using glycolic acid treatments, as all AHAs can make the skin sensitive to the sun.

Let the skin get used to glycolic acid, if you are using an OTC product, begin by applying it thrice a week for a week or so. If your skin isn’t red, inflamed, or irritated, then try using it four times a week for a week or two.

Well, the skin may feel a little rough after the first few sessions, this is quite normal, and it means that the acid is working. Unless the skin is irritated keep using the glycolic acid product and you would slowly begin to experience smoother and healthier skin.

It is important to get advice from your dermatologist before using any product containing glycolic acid.

Side Effects

Glycolic acid isn’t safe for everyone. Some of the common reactions to this include:

  • Swelling
  • Itching
  • Burning sensations

Also, glycolic acid may not suit for people with dry or sensitive skin types, and it may be too irritating. Furthermore, some people may find they’re more sensitive to the sun when they use glycolic acid, thus applying sunscreen can help lessen sun exposure risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Beauty Benefits Of Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid offers a myriad of skin benefits, some of which include:

Glycolic acid aids in clearing off dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin.

Regularly using glycolic acid can help mitigate the appearance of fine lines, and wrinkles.

Glycolic acid can fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and acne spots, leading to a more even complexion.

By clearing dead skin cells, glycolic acid can improve the penetration and effectiveness of other skincare products.

Glycolic acid can promote collagen synthesis, which helps improve skin firmness and elasticity.

Who Should Use Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is suitable for most skin types, but it may be particularly beneficial for those with:

  • Dull or uneven skin texture
  • Acne-prone skin
  • Hyperpigmentation or sun damage
  • Fine lines and wrinkles

However, individuals with sensitive skin may want to begin with milder concentrations of glycolic acid and gradually build up tolerance.

Can I Use Glycolic Acid With Other Skincare Ingredients?

Yes, glycolic acid can be used alongside other skincare ingredients, but it's essential to patch test and introduce new products to avoid irritation gradually. Some ingredients that pair well with glycolic acid include hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, and sunscreen.

How Often Should Glycolic Acid Be Used?

The frequency of glycolic acid use depends on your skin type, tolerance, and product concentration. Start with once or twice a week and adjust as needed. Overuse can lead to irritation and dryness.

Is Glycolic Acid Safe For All Skin Tones?

Glycolic acid is considered safe for all skin tones, but individuals with darker skin may be more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation if irritation occurs. It's crucial to start with low concentrations and monitor skin reactions carefully.

References:

1.The therapeutic value of glycolic acid peels in dermatology

C Grover, BS Reddu, Dept. of Dermatology, Maulana Azad Medical College & Hospitals, New Delhi - 110 002, India

https://ijdvl.com/the-therapeutic-value-of-glycolic-acid-peels-in-dermatology/

2.Glycolic acid and its use in dermatology

Author links open overlay panelC. Cotellessa, K. Peris, S. Chimenti

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii