Glycolic Acid: What Does Glycolic Acid Do to the Skin?

Glycolic acid is one of the most talked-about ingredients in the beauty industry. But what is glycolic acid, and why is it creating so much buzz?

In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about this powerhouse ingredient.

So, let's get started.

Glycolic Acid: Meaning, Benefits Uses & more

Glycolic acid is a skincare superstar known for its transformative effects. In this section, we’ll explore what glycolic acid is, its numerous benefits, and how to incorporate it into your skincare routine for radiant, healthy skin.

What is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is a water-soluble alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. It’s one of the most popular AHAs used in skincare products.

AHAs are natural acids from plants with tiny molecules that your skin absorbs easily. This makes them perfect for smoothing fine lines, improving skin texture, and other anti-ageing benefits.

Benefits of Glycolic Acid for Skin

Why should you use glycolic acid for skin? Here are some of the benefits of glycolic acid that can enhance your skincare routine:

Exfoliates Gently:
It removes dead skin cells, leading to a smoother, more radiant complexion.
Improves Texture:
Regular use helps reduce the appearance of rough patches and uneven skin texture.
Brightens Skin:
By removing dull, old skin, glycolic acid reveals a fresher, brighter layer underneath.
Reduces Fine Lines:
Glycolic acid helps to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Evens Skin Tone:
It can help fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, promoting a more even skin tone.
Unclogs Pores: It helps clear out excess oil and debris from pores, which can reduce breakouts.
By removing dull, old skin, glycolic acid reveals a fresher, brighter layer underneath.

Uses of Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid can be used in various ways to enhance your skincare routine. Here are some common uses:

Cleansers:
Glycolic acid in cleansers helps gently exfoliate while you wash your face, promoting a clearer complexion.
Toners:
Used in toners, it refines pores and prepares your skin for better absorption of other products.
Serums:
Concentrated glycolic acid serums offer deep exfoliation and target specific skin concerns like fine lines and dark spots.
Masks:
Glycolic acid masks provide a more intense exfoliation, brightening and smoothing the skin.
Moisturizers:
Incorporating glycolic acid into moisturizers helps maintain exfoliation and hydration for smoother skin.

What Does Glycolic Acid Do?

Glycolic acid works by gently exfoliating the outer layer of your skin. Here’s how it does its job:

Breaks Down Dead Skin Cells:
Glycolic acid dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, making it easier to shed them. This helps to reveal fresher, newer skin underneath.
Boosts Cell Turnover:
By encouraging the removal of old skin cells, glycolic acid promotes the production of new cells. This leads to a smoother, more even skin texture.
Penetrates Deeply:
Due to its small molecular size, glycolic acid can penetrate deeper into the skin compared to other acids. This allows it to work more effectively on improving skin texture and tone.
Stimulates Collagen Production:
Regular use of glycolic acid can stimulate collagen production, which helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.

How to Use Glycolic Acid in Your Skincare Routine

Incorporating glycolic acid into your skincare routine can yield great results when used correctly. Here’s how to do it:

Start Slow:
If you’re new to glycolic acid, begin with a lower concentration to allow your skin to adjust. Gradually increase the strength as your skin builds tolerance.
Use at Night:
Apply glycolic acid products in the evening, as it can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. This helps avoid potential irritation from sun exposure.
Apply After Cleansing:
Use glycolic acid after cleansing your face and before applying other treatments. This ensures that your skin absorbs the acid effectively.
Follow with Moisturizer:
After applying glycolic acid, follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and balanced.
Sun Protection:
Always use broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day to protect your skin from UV damage, especially when using glycolic acid.
Frequency:
Start by using glycolic acid 2-3 times a week and adjust based on how your skin responds. Avoid overuse to prevent irritation.

Side Effects of Glycolic Acid on Skin

Glycolic acid is an effective ingredient but may cause side effects if not used correctly. Common issues include skin irritation, such as redness, itching, or a burning sensation, especially with higher concentrations or sensitive skin. It can also lead to dryness or flakiness as it removes dead skin cells. Increased sensitivity to sunlight is another concern, making sun protection crucial to prevent sunburn and pigmentation. Mild peeling might occur, which is normal, but excessive peeling can indicate overuse.

Some people may experience initial breakouts as glycolic acid clears out clogged pores. To minimise these effects, start with a lower concentration, use it sparingly, and ensure proper hydration and sun protection.

Is Glycolic Acid Suitable for All Skin Types?

Glycolic acid can be beneficial for many skin types, but its suitability varies based on individual skin conditions. Here's a quick overview:

Normal Skin:
Glycolic acid works well for normal skin, helping to maintain a smooth, even complexion and address minor concerns like dullness or texture.
Oily Skin:
It's effective for oily skin as it helps to unclog pores and reduce excess oil, preventing breakouts and improving overall texture.
Dry Skin:
While glycolic acid can improve texture and brightness, those with very dry skin should use it cautiously to avoid excessive dryness.
Sensitive Skin:
For sensitive skin, glycolic acid can cause irritation, redness, or dryness. It’s best to start with a lower concentration and perform a patch test to gauge tolerance.
Acne-Prone Skin:
Glycolic acid can help treat acne by exfoliating the skin and clearing clogged pores. However, individuals with severe acne should consult a dermatologist before use.

FAQs on Glycolic Acid

Can I apply glycolic acid everyday?

It's generally safe to use glycolic acid daily. However, we recommend you start with a few times a week and adjust based on your skin's tolerance.

Is glycolic acid good for skin whitening?

Glycolic acid can help brighten skin and even out skin tone, which may contribute to a lighter appearance. However, it is not a skin-whitening agent.

Does glycolic acid remove dark spots?

Yes, glycolic acid can help reduce the appearance of dark spots by exfoliating the skin and promoting cell turnover.