What is Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is in quite a few skin care products.

If you’re like me and are a skin care fanatic, you’ve come across this ingredient more than once.

That being said, what is Glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). It is a water soluble exfoliant that works by removing the top dead layer of skin and revealing the fresh new layer underneath.

AHA’s work by dissolving the bonds or “glue” that hold dead, dull skin cells together on the surface of the skin. It gently exfoliates this layer to reveal a smoother and brighter layer underneath.

Other AHA’s are lactic acid, malic acid, mandelic acid, citric acid, acetic acid, and tartaric acid. These have larger molecular structures, making them milder. Typically, they are combined with other acids to add to their exfoliation but can be formulated alone for a gentle exfoliation. More sensitive skin types typically appreciate these types of acids.

Glycolic acid has a smaller molecular structure which makes it more penetrable and ideal for exfoliating the skin.

It is derived from sugar cane, evaporated sugar cane to be exact. It is a very common go to for sourcing glycolic acid.

• It is antimicrobial, making it a powerhouse to fight acne. Because of this it clears up the skin, unclogs the pores, and gets rid of whiteheads in the future. While cleaning out the pores it also has the ability to make them appear smaller and less enlarged.
• It can improve your skin’s texture; this is a great option for flaky skin because glycolic acid removes the top layer of skin.
• It can improve fine lines and wrinkles as well as firm up the skin over time with long term use.
• It has the ability to reduce hyperpigmentation; because it reduces dullness and brightens the skin by fading dark spots, discoloration, and acne scars.
• Glycolic acid is an antioxidant making it target hyperpigmentation.
• It doesn’t permanently remove scars but does reduce them over time.
• It adds hydration back into the skin because it is water soluble. This means dull, dry skin can become plump and hydrated skin.

Glycolic acid isn’t good for all skin types, but dry, combination, oily, and mature skin would benefit from using this acid. Sensitive skin types would do better to use more milder AHAs as mentioned above.

If you’re wondering where this ingredient can be found in your routine, the answer is everywhere!

It is found in cleansers, toners, serums, face masks, and face creams. How you decide to incorporate into your routine is up to you!