Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is the best-known chemical exfoliator, very effective for treating multiple skin concerns, and a basic element in any beauty routine. It’s a molecule that belongs to the group of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and is normally extracted from sugar cane.

Glycolic is the exfoliating acid with the lowest molecular weight, which means it easily penetrates the epidermis, where it dissolves the intercellular bonds between the corneocytes, the skin’s surface cells.

By weakening these bonds, glycolic acid promotes gentle yet effective exfoliation. It helps to shift dead cells thereby stimulating epidermal renewal and improving the skin’s texture.

Some studies confirm that glycolic acid provides support for the skin’s natural collagen processes, so it increases firmness and elasticity. It also has sebum-regulating properties and helps combat dark spots in your skin.

By renewing the surface of the skin, glycolic acid reveals a much softer and smoother complexion. It helps reduce the signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines, and helps achieve more evenly toned and luminous skin.

Its multiple benefits make it ideal for all skin types. However, it’s especially suitable for mature skin, as it promotes firmness and minimizes the visible signs of aging.

Glycolic acid is also highly effective on acne-prone skin.

In the right concentration, glycolic acid can be suitable for sensitive skin.

It’s best to test your skin tolerance with a sensitivity patch test. Apply a small quantity of product to cleansed skin behind the ear. If it doesn’t cause any skin discomfort, you can gradually add it to your routine.

If it causes any type of irritation, remember there are special exfoliating skincare products for more delicate skin, such as the enzymatic exfoliator Tolerance Enzyme Peel.

Consult your trusted skincare expert about the use of acids on your skin.

Hydroxy acids are water-soluble molecules that play a part in cell renewal. There are different types, like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs).

AHAs are the most powerful and most common acids in skincare products. They include glycolic acid, lactic acid and citric acid, among others. They are characterized by also having brightening and age-defying properties.

BHAs, such as salicylic acid, are ideal for the needs of oily skin, as they contribute to reducing blackheads and to regulating excess sebum and shine.

Lastly, PHAs, like gluconolactone, are very gentle, making them ideal for sensitive skin.

If you don’t use acids regularly, introduce them gradually to your routine, along with deeply hydrating products. You can begin with one or two days a week and slowly increase the frequency of use.

We recommend using glycolic acid at night to work in harmony with the skin’s natural renewal process.

The results are immediately visible in terms of your skin looking softer, more mattified, and with less visible pores.

After two months of continuous use, you will also begin to notice a more even skin tone, faded dark spots, and minimized wrinkles.

We recommend beginning to use AHAs between the ages of 30 and 35 to help promote skin renewal and counteract the signs of aging. But their exfoliating and sebum-regulating action make them suitable for use from the age of 20 as well.

Because this is an active exfoliating agent that can cause a degree of dryness, especially at first, it’s a good idea to combine it with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Glycolic acid also works very well with vitamin C, collagen or niacinamide for a highly effective skincare ritual.