What is Glycolic Acid?
Derived from sugar cane, glycolic acid works to exfoliate the skin, speed up cell turnover, and boost collagen production. Glycolic acid helps to clear pores, smooth fine wrinkles, improve skin tone, fade dark patches and sun damage, and hydrate skin for a more youthful appearance. Glycolic acid works to break the bonds between the outer layer of skin cells, including dead skin cells, and the next skin cell layer. It carries a pH of ~3.83-5.
How is Glycolic Acid used in Skincare?
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that’s widely used for anti-aging, hyperpigmentation, dryness, and acne. It is considered the golden standard of AHAs, glycolic acid’s keratolytic properties exfoliate dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. This exfoliation reduces existing fine lines and wrinkles, fades hyperpigmentation, and clears acne. Glycolic is also a humectant, meaning it has the chemical ability to draw moisture to itself. This means glycolic acid draws moisture to your newly exfoliated skin.Additionally, glycolic acid increases the penetration of other skin care ingredients making your other skin care products stronger.