What it does
The smallest alpha hydroxy acid, which exfoliates the skin surface to smooth texture, brighten the look of dullness, and refine the appearance of tone.
Best for
Dullness, rough texture, uneven tone, and the look of fine lines on normal to oily skin. Best used at night.
What is glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha hydroxy acid, an exfoliating acid derived from sugar cane. It loosens the bonds holding dead cells on the skin surface, so they shed more evenly and skin looks smoother and brighter.
Its small molecule size makes it the most penetrating and active AHA, which is why it is both effective and, at high strengths, potentially irritating.
What does glycolic acid do for skin?
Glycolic acid resurfaces the skin to improve the look of texture, dullness, and uneven tone.
Research on alpha hydroxy acids shows they exfoliate the surface and improve the appearance of texture and photoaged skin at appropriate concentrations.
It is stronger and more resurfacing than lactic acid, and it works on a different mechanism than oil-soluble salicylic acid, which clears pores. Use glycolic acid at night, start a couple of times a week, and always follow with morning sunscreen.
Who should use glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid suits normal to oily skin dealing with dullness, rough texture, or uneven tone. Very sensitive or dry skin may prefer gentler lactic acid. Introduce it slowly to avoid over-exfoliation.
Evidence
Alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid exfoliate the surface and, at appropriate concentrations, improve the appearance of texture and photoaged skin.
Read the source: Molecules: Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin (2018) ->
