What Is Glycolic Acid?

Categorized as an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliant often derived from sugar cane. It’s water soluble and has the smallest size molecule of all AHAs, allowing it to effectively penetrate the skin and exfoliate the outermost level of the skin more effectively than other acids.  These powerful exfoliating benefits means that glycolic acid improves skin’s texture and tone and promotes a youthful complexion. 

What Does Glycolic Acid Do?

One of the most well-researched AHAs, glycolic acid benefits the skin in 3 key ways: 

1. Exfoliates And Decongests
   Glycolic acid has powerful exfoliating properties that help to slough away and decongest the outermost layer of the skin. With continued use, skin feels noticeably smoother and looks brighter, clearer and more radiant. It is one of the most powerful ingredients for combating dullness, uneven skin tone and large pores. 
2. Provides An Instant Benefit
   Glycolic acid provides an instant benefit to the skin which feels instantly smoother, softer and brighter. With continued use, the skin tone becomes more even, clearer and more radiant. 
3. Stimulates Cellular Turnover  
   By increasing cellular turnover, glycolic acid can also stimulate collagen production, lending skin a plumper and more youthful appearance, while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 
   By encouraging cell renewal, it also leads to fresh healthy plump cells. Glycolic acid also attracts water molecules, working to moisturise and hydrate the skin.  

When And How To Use Glycolic Acid

As glycolic acid has the smallest molecular size of all AHAs, it penetrates quickly into the skin and delivers great results instantly. However, this does make it more irritating by nature.  

As such, it’s important to start small and build up tolerance before introducing the product into your skincare routine on a more regular basis. Glycolic acid also shouldn’t be applied in conjunction with other exfoliating products, including manual exfoliators and retinol.   

Glycolic acid can also make skin more sensitive to the sun, so a night-time application is advised to help avoid skin damage. Follow with a serum, moisturiser and SPF in the morning to hydrate and protect skin from UV rays.  

Is Glycolic Acid Safe?

When introduced into the skincare routine correctly, glycolic acid is safe to use for all skin types, except those with extremely sensitive skin, eczema or rosacea. However, it’s important to note that too much glycolic acid in your skincare can potentially cause dryness, irritation, sensitivity, and flaking. 

Instead, introduce a glycolic acid peel into your routine gradually to reduce the likelihood of irritation. Begin with once a week, then, as the skin adjusts to the effects of glycolic acid, increase to three evenings a week, keeping at least a day between each application.