There are people who still don’t understand how to use glycolic acid. Many are saying glycolic acid is good for the skin, somehow to some people, it just makes their skin irritated and worst. But, there are key elements they miss out on glycolic acid. So, if you’re a beginner to this ingredient, this is the basic information you should know:
What is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic Acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (also known as AHA) that comes from sugarcane. Other than glycolic acid, there are a few other types of AHA. That includes lactic acid (present in dairy and fermented vegetables), malic acid (present in apples), citric acid (present in citrus fruits), and tartaric acid (present in grapes).
But glycolic acid has the simplest structure and the smallest size molecules compared to other AHAs. Its smaller molecular weight makes it easy to penetrate into your skin and be super effective under that skin layer.
How Glycolic Acid works?
The outermost layers of skin are packed with layers of dead skin cells and they are tightly bonded together. This is where glycolic acid becomes handy because it works as an exfoliant. It sheds and breaks down the dead skin cells – it reveals newer and brighter layers underneath by loosening the bonds.
Since glycolic acid is so small, it can penetrate into your skin and does some serious work too. That includes stimulating fibroblasts in the dermis to produce an increased amount of collagen. Due to that, it helps skin feel firmer and minimizes fine lines and wrinkles.
Therefore, with these two superficial actions, glycolic acid works wonder on the outermost layer of skin and underneath. It will help your skin feel smoother and look more radiant and even-toned.
How to use Glycolic Acid in skincare routine?
As an exfoliant, it is recommended to start small. Especially if you have sensitive skin and are prone to irritation. For starting, try to use a wash-away product such as cleansers. Rather than straight away using a leave-on product (ie toner, serum, and moisturizer).
It is best to use it once or twice a week and see how it goes with your skin. Eventually, add up the frequency if the skin is ok with it.
On the other side, you also need to consider the % of glycolic acid (if stated on the products). If you are a beginner, it is advisable to use a glycolic product at 2%-3%. The maximum you can go mostly is at 5%.
Who can use Glycolic Acid?
It’s best for normal, combination, and oily skin. But truthfully, not everyone can use this glycolic acid. People with dry and highly sensitive skin often react to it with irritation. This skin type can opt for other AHAs that are more gentle and suitable. For example, lactic acid, azelaic acid, or ferulic acid.
Simple guide before you buy Glycolic Acid products.
INCI name: Glycolic Acid
Recommended dosage: 0.5% – 5%, (Beginner start with 2%-3% first)
How long you may see the result: 1 – 3 weeks
Benefits: Helps lighten hyperpigmentation, soften fine lines and wrinkles, helps to improve hydration in the skin, helps even out skin tone, stimulates collagen, beneficial for acne, and smooths skin texture.
Do you want to formulate safe skincare for your skin?
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Thank you for reading this. Until then, see you next time.
Age gracefully with Lavent.
– Yasmin Latif
