5 Reasons Glycolic Acid is Good for Your Skin

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Written by Shweta Vepa VyasJul 04, 2017

Potent and powerful, glycolic acid is that silent hero in your cosmetic formulations. An active compound derived from cane sugar, it’s the smallest a-hydroxy acid or AHA. Its small size makes it easily penetrable into the skin. This coupled with its unique chemical properties make it a highly effective ingredient in skincare. Here’s why you need to include it in your daily regimen.

• #1 The best cleanser and exfoliator
• #3 Anti-ageing benefits
• #5 Clarifies pores

#1 The best cleanser and exfoliator

If you have any reservations about the word ‘acid’ in this ingredient, now’s the time to put them to rest. Glycolic acid in your daily skincare products is perfectly safe for all skin types including sensitive skin. While most cleansers are alkaline-based and disturb the pH balance of the skin, glycolic acid does a thorough job of cleansing without stripping the skin off its natural acid mantle. It performs its exfoliating action by dissolving the glue-like substance that holds cells together. In doing so, it effectively sloughs off all dull and dead skin cells to reveal a fresh, new layer of skin.

#2 Bestows radiance

As glycolic acid easily does away with dead skin cells, it reveals skin that is clear and radiant. It also promotes cellular turnover that combats scars and pigmentation and improves the overall condition of the skin. Prolonged use will also reduce the appearance of whiteheads and blackheads. In fact, glycolic acid is highly recommended for acne-prone skin as research has shown that it works particularly well on acne scars.

#3 Anti-ageing benefits

Owing to the fact that glycolic acid is made up of very small molecules, it easily permeates the skin. It’s because of this very property that glycolic acid provides visible results in skincare. The compound can help smoothen fine lines and wrinkles and regenerate collagen, giving the skin a youthful appearance.

#4 Treats oily skin

If you have oily skin, glycolic acid is literally a godsend for you. Because it’s such an effective exfoliator, it gets rid of dead skin cells, excessive oil and grime, preventing build-up that ultimately leads to acne. It also helps balance the production of sebum in the skin while maintaining its moisture levels. So, if you have oily skin, a glycolic acid-based toner and cleanser is your best bet.

#5 Clarifies pores

As glycolic acid exfoliates, it also keeps your pores clean and prevents them from getting clogged. Dirt and grime are more likely to get accumulated in larger pores. Apart from unclogging pores, glycolic acid helps refine and tighten pores, inhibiting the growth of acne and giving your skin a smooth finish.

So, the next time you’re replenishing your vanity drawer, make sure that this super ingredient is present in your skincare essentials.

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Pros, Cons, Skin Type Suitability

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are two popular skin care ingredients. They’re available in many over-the-counter (OTC) products, including facial cleansers, serums, and toners.

Both ingredients can exfoliate your skin and fight acne, but they’re different from each other and have unique properties and benefits.

This article will help you figure out whether glycolic acid or salicylic acid is better suited to your skin issue or skin type. It’ll also look at the benefits and drawbacks of each ingredient, along with product recommendations.

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). It’s found naturally in sugarcane, but it can also be made in a lab. Glycolic acid is a small molecule, so it can easily pass through your skin barrier.

When applied topically, glycolic acid exfoliates your skin while retaining moisture. It works by sloughing dead skin cells from the top layer of your skin. This helps promotes the growth of new skin.

Additionally, glycolic acid decreases inflammation and protects against ultraviolet B radiation. It also works against bacteria that cause acne breakouts.

Glycolic acid is mainly used to even out skin tone and to reduce the signs of skin aging. It can also help:

• reduce hyperpigmentation or darkened skin spots, including sun damage and acne marks
• brighten your complexion
• decrease the appearance of pores
• reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• enhance skin firmness
• manage acne breakouts

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Due to these benefits, glycolic acid is often recommended for the following skin types:

• skin that’s prone to hyperpigmentation
• skin with signs of aging
• acne-prone skin

Although glycolic acid is generally considered safe, it can cause irritation in some people. This is more likely to happen if a product has a high concentration of glycolic acid, about 10 percent or more.

Glycolic acid can also increase sun sensitivity. It’s important to wear sunscreen while using glycolic acid to avoid sun damage.

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA). It’s naturally found in willow bark and wintergreen leaves. It can also be artificially synthesized in a lab.

Like glycolic acid, salicylic acid has an exfoliating effect on the skin. It can also remove excess sebum (oil) and reduce sebum production, making it an excellent ingredient for unclogging pores. Plus, salicylic acid has mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Salicylic acid is mainly used to prevent and treat acne. It can also help:

• control oily skin
• reduce the appearance of blackheads
• reduce hyperpigmentation

This ingredient is best for the following skin types:

• acne-prone skin
• oily skin
• skin that’s prone to hyperpigmentation

You can find salicylic acid in many OTC products, but it’s not for everyone. It can cause dryness or irritation.

In rare cases, salicylic acid can trigger a severe allergic reaction

If you have acne, both ingredients can have a beneficial effect on your skin. But in general, salicylic acid is the better choice.

Unlike glycolic acid, salicylic acid decreases sebum in the skin. This is important because sebum can clog pores, which increases your risk of an acne breakout. Excess sebum also promotes the growth of bacteria that can cause acne.

The exfoliating, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects of salicylic acid are also beneficial for acne-prone skin.

If you’d like to try a product that contains salicylic acid, you may want to consider the following, which can all be found online:

Salicylic acid products for acne

• Paula’s Choice CLEAR Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution with 2% Salicylic Acid
• The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque
• Neutrogena Rapid Clear Treatment Pads

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Chemical peels are cosmetic treatments that can help remove dead skin cells, boost your skin’s appearance, and even out skin tone. If this is your main goal, choose a product with glycolic acid.

The small molecular size of glycolic acid makes it highly effective at entering and exfoliating the skin. It also helps your skin retain moisture.

Salicylic acid, on the other hand, can have a drying effect. Plus, if you don’t have oily skin, you might accidentally remove too much sebum by using salicylic acid.

If you’d like to try a chemical peel product that contains glycolic acid, you may want to consider the following, which can all be found online:

Glycolic acid products for chemical peels

• Caudalíe Vinoperfect Glycolic Peel Mask
• Derma E Essentials Overnight Peel
• Pixi Glow Tonic
• First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads

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As with any skin care ingredient, the acid that’s best for you depends on various factors.

Glycolic acid may be a better fit if you:

• are mainly concerned with hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone
• want to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• don’t have oily skin
• have little to no acne breakouts

On the other hand, salicylic acid is probably a better option if you:

• have active acne breakouts
• have acne-prone or oily skin
• have clogged pores

You can also find products with both glycolic acid and salicylic acid. This combo is ideal if you have both hyperpigmentation and acne.

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are two popular skin care ingredients. Glycolic acid is an effective exfoliant, meaning it can remove dead skin cells. It’s well suited to reducing hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and uneven skin tone.

If you have acne-prone skin, salicylic acid is usually a better option. It can get rid of excess sebum and prevent or treat acne.

When using any skin care product, always follow the instructions on the packaging. Using too much may cause irritation.

If you’re still unsure about whether glycolic acid or salicylic acid is right for your skin, talk with a skin care expert or dermatologist.

Glycolic acid for the face [in cosmetics] – properties, benefits, action

What is glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid is a type of water-soluble alpha-hydroxyl fruit acids, obtained both synthetically and from natural plant components – sugar cane, bamboo, grapes. In cosmetology, both types of production are used – there is no significant difference between them.

Among all AHAs, glycolic has the lowest molecular weight and acidity, which increases its ability to penetrate into the epidermal layers of the skin and instantly react. The activity of the impact and the depth of penetration depends on the pH level – the lower (acidic) it is, the higher the effectiveness of the acid.

How glycolic acid is used

In cosmetics

Due to its powerful keratolic properties, glycolic acid in cosmetics is used for enhanced exfoliation of dead cells, skin renewal, deep cleansing and rejuvenation. Most often, the substance is found in the basis of active formulas for oily and problematic types, as well as for mature skin. When choosing an acid-containing care product, pay attention to the concentration.

Beauty formulas based on glycolic acid also activate the synthesis of natural collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, increasing skin turgor. Since alpha hydroxyl acid is water soluble, it is not recommended to combine products based on it with dense fatty and oily formulas – this will reduce its effectiveness.

Cosmetic

One of the most sought-after salon procedures for facial skin is a glycolic facial peel. The procedure is a kind of chemical peeling with fruit acids: it effectively evens out the color and relief of the skin, accelerates the regeneration of epidermal cells.

A high concentration of acid in the peel (from 30%) has a powerful renewing and rejuvenating effect. Such facial cleansing is a traumatic renewing procedure that requires subsequent regenerating, moisturizing and softening care. Be sure to protect your skin from UV rays and use sunscreen even in the cold season, such as Anthelios Sunscreen Invisible Fluid SPF 50+/PPD 46.

Effects and benefits of glycolic acid on the skin of the face

A rich spectrum of actions on the skin makes glycolic acid one of the most sought-after components. Responsible for exfoliation, as well as its ability to rejuvenate, smooth, prevent hyperpigmentation, alpha hydroxy acid satisfies the basic needs of oily skin and is widely used in anti-age beauty routine. Let’s take a closer look at the beneficial properties of glycolic acid for the face.

• Evens out the color and relief of the epidermis.
• Fights age-related changes, smoothes even deep wrinkles.
• Thickens the deep layer of the epidermis, thins the superficial (horny).
• Accelerates the mechanisms of cellular renewal.
• Increases the tone, firmness and elasticity of the skin.
• Returns radiance and freshness to the skin of the face.
• Helps to get rid of signs of acne, has an anti-inflammatory effect: minimizes the appearance of acne, promotes the resorption of comedones, cleanses and tightens pores, reduces the visibility of black spots.
• Helps to get rid of post-acne: smoothes congestive spots, atrophic scars.
• Suppresses the production of melanin, corrects signs of photoaging: brightens hyperpigmentation, eliminates dehydration creases.

Based on the above beneficial properties, we highlight the most common skin problems and imperfections that glycolic acid is designed to deal with.

Indications for use of cosmetics with glycolic acid

• Early signs of aging.
• Visible age-related changes.
• Manifestation of photoaging.
• Hyperkeratosis.
• Acne (pimples, blackheads, comedones).
• Hyperpigmentation, malasma.
• Uneven relief and skin color, peeling.
• Post-acne marks.

Features of using cosmetics with glycolic acid for different skin types

• For oily problematic and combination skin
  
  Oily and problem skin types respond well to any glycolic acid products on a daily basis. Anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating products containing a component at the base of the formula have a keratolic and renewing effect without dehydration of the epidermis.
  
  Also look for glycerin, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, salicylic acid, or lipohydroxy acid in products for maximum results. The complex of salicylic and lipo-hydroxy acids can be used without the addition of LHA acids, as, for example, in the basis of the Effaclar Mattifying Lotion formula.
• For dry and sensitive skin
  
  For a mild exfoliation effect without skin irritation, use up to 5% glycolic acid skin cream. For sensitive skin, choose toners or lotions with a low content (up to 3%) 3-4 times a week. Formulas with a combination of acid, niacinamide, squalane, thermal water, hyaluronic acid are also suitable to prevent skin irritation. If irritation or allergy occurs, switch to a lower maintenance treatment or stop using it altogether.
• For normal and mature
  
  For mature skin with visible signs of aging, you can use a complex of acids in the basis of the formula, such as BHA and AHA acids. Professional peels with a high content of alpha hydroxy acid will help to intensively renew the epidermis. Creams, gels, tonics, cleansers with a low component content are suitable as a regular beauty routine.

La Roche-Posay Glycolic Acid Product Review

New ultra-concentrated serum against imperfections of oily problem skin Effaclar Serum Ultra with a complex of three acids (salicylic + glycolic + lipo-hydroxy), niacinamide protects the skin from premature aging, provides antioxidant support to cells, intensively renews the epidermis, cleanses and tightens pores, evens out color and skin relief. At the same time, it has a calming and firming effect, protects against dehydration.

Consumer reviews:

Anastasia: I really liked the serum! Really good solution for problematic skin. It is better to use it once a day, I do it at night, as it is an acidic product. It is better not to use 2 times a day, as it dries the skin. I use only on those places where the skin is oily and on the T-zone. A lot of inflammation has gone from the chin. It copes well with spot acne, I also use it as an SOS remedy. I recommend the tool!

Oksana: A good product for oily skin with the first age-related changes 2 in 1 thanks to the acid complex in the composition with high efficiency. It replaces not only the care against imperfections, but also visibly smoothes mimic wrinkles, removes acne and cleanses pores from blackheads. I use the serum twice a day, morning and evening, the texture is pleasant, quickly absorbed, not noticeable on the skin. I ordered a second pack.

Benefits & Overview 6 Glycolic Acid Products

Contents

• What is glycolic acid
• Functions of glycolic acid
• Glycolic Acid Skin Benefits
• How glycolic acid affects the skin
• Restrictions on use
• Glycolic acid in cosmetics

What is Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is a fruit acid or alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). It is naturally found in green grapes and sugar cane. In cosmetics, glycolic acid of both synthetic and vegetable origin is used.

Along with other AHAs, it actively renews the skin by starting the process of cell exfoliation (exfoliation). However, it is glycolic acid that has a couple of features that distinguish it from its colleagues in the AHA group:

• low molecular weight;
• low acidity.

This win-win combination allows glycolic acid to easily penetrate the skin and cause an immediate response. The strength and depth of exposure are determined by the pH level – the lower it is (that is, the more acidic the solution), the more active the acid works.

Glycolic acid is an AHA.

What do you miss in your daily skincare routine? Our test will help determine this. Glycolic Acid oily and problem skin;

is used in professional peels.

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The benefits of glycolic acid for the skin

Glycolic acid is valued for its ability to literally transform the skin in a matter of days, and even faster when used professionally in the salon. Getting into the skin, acid molecules force it to hastily get rid of old cells and acquire new ones. Result:

• evens out the skin relief;
• post-acne marks and scars are smoothed out;
• pores shrink;
• the skin becomes lighter;
• shine appears.

A particularly striking effect is observed in aged and oily skin, which for various reasons are characterized by an excessive density of the stratum corneum, and therefore a slow mechanism of cell renewal. It has to be stimulated artificially, and glycolic acid copes with this perfectly.

One of the natural sources of glycolic acid is sugar cane. © iStock

Glycolic Acid works two ways to effectively address oily skin:

1. 1

   Accelerates cell turnover , brightens sallow complexion and exfoliates for smoother skin;

2. 2

   reduces oiliness by draining sebum.

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How glycolic acid affects the skin

Like all AHA acids, glycolic acid, when it enters the skin, lowers the pH in the stratum corneum, breaks the bonds between the scales, causes peeling and opens the way for the formation of new young cells. Refreshed, the skin looks much younger. After all, cells that have already outlived their age, but remained on the surface, give the face a grayish tint and uneven relief. Dull complexion, roughness, roughness, enlarged pores are typical signs of skin that has not gotten rid of old cells in time.

With age, the process of cell renewal slows down: in young skin, the full cycle of epidermal renewal is 28 days, by the age of 40 it increases to 35-40 days. Then the rate steadily decreases, and by old age the renewal cycle reaches 2-3 months.

In aging skin, glycolic acid is valued for its ability to smooth out wrinkles, not only from the outside, but also from the inside. This is one of the few acids that renew the dermis: it launches a cascade of protective reactions, as a result of which new collagen and hyaluronic acid are produced, literally “straightening” the skin.

Glycolic acid, found in many aging skin products, promotes collagen production, resulting in dermal remodeling.

Glycolic acid has excellent exfoliating properties.

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Restrictions on Use

When using glycolic acid on the skin, some precautions must be taken.

Sensitive skin

Here’s what you need to know about glycolic acid first and foremost: this substance is generally not suitable for people with sensitive skin. Irritation, persistent peeling and redness may appear, rosacea may increase.

If you don’t know how sensitive your skin is, start with low concentrations of glycolic acid and gradually increase and monitor the reaction. If redness and tingling persist for a week, discard.

Solar activity

Glycolic acid significantly increases skin photosensitivity and the risk of developing hyperpigmentation. And so much so that the skin that has interacted with glycolic acid should absolutely not be shown outside without high SPF protection, even if the ultraviolet index is not high at the moment.

Glycolic acid cosmetics should be discontinued at least one month before the onset of the sunny season to avoid burns and age spots.

Acute acne

If there are rashes and pustules on the face, one should be more careful with acids: the skin becomes thinner, its protective functions weaken, which is fraught with the spread of inflammation. In general, strict hygiene and impeccable cleanliness (disposable napkins instead of towels, fresh pillowcases, etc.) are mandatory conditions during your “romance” with glycolic acid.

Use strict hygiene when using glycolic acid products, especially if you have signs of acne.

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Glycolic acid in cosmetics

Most often, glycolic acid is present:

• in cleansers and tonics , where it supports the process of cell renewal;
• in day creams for daily gentle care of oily and aging skin;
• in masks : here glycolic acid is often combined with cleansing and moisturizing ingredients;
• in scrubs, since acid and mechanical exfoliation are often combined for a thorough cleansing and renewal;
• in peels, which contain a safe concentration of glycolic acid for daily use.

Glycolic Acid Product Review

For quality exfoliation and renewal of skin, especially those prone to oiliness, it is worth taking a closer look at some of these products.

Cleansers

Glycolic acid cosmetics

Name	Action	Leather type	Frequency of use
Night peeling Idealia, Vichy	Combines glycolic acid with antioxidants. Gives shine.	any	Once a day, at bedtime.
daily deep cleansing gel Normaderm, Vichy where to find?	Cleans pores, prevents breakouts. Contains a complex of acids.	oily, problematic	Twice a day, morning and evening.
Black peeling double action Pure Ritual, Helena Rubinstein	Contains black rice extract and nourishing oils to deeply yet gently cleanse and renew.	any	Once a week.

Care products

Cosmetic products with glycolic acid

Product name	Action	Leather type	Frequency of use
Revitalift Laser x3 peeling lotion, L’Oréal [email protected](‘16313’, ‘L’Oreal Paris Ampoules Revitalift Laser x3 peeling effect, with glycolic acid, 7×1.3 ml’)	Smoothes wrinkles, reduces pigmentation, evens out skin texture and tone.	any	Once a day, at bedtime.
Normaderm 3 in 1 Cleanser, Vichy where to find?	Can be used as a mask and scrub. Contains acids and white clay particles.	oily, problematic	Once a day or as needed.
Cream-gel for problem skin with the first signs of aging Normaderm Anti-Age, Vichy where to find?	Eliminates shine and promotes collagen synthesis (vitamin C). Leave a Reply Cancel reply Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Comment * Name * Email * Website