We’re always up for discovering a new way to get our skin looking as flawless and smooth as a baby dolphin, and glycolic acid could very well be the ticket. We’re ditching grainy scrubs and rough masks for a gentler approach in the form of this genius acid exfoliator.
Ok, it’s not the newest skincare ingredient out there but it is the gold standard of acids. It can solve almost any skincare problem you throw at it. Spots? Sorted. Dry patches? Gone. Fine lines? Miraculously disappear.
Think of glycolic acid as the ‘completed it mate’ ingredient for skincare woes. It comes in so many different formulas and strengths there’s the perfect pairing whatever your skin type.
What is glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid falls into the family of non-abrasive exfoliators we’ve all come to know and love. It’s an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) which is derived from natural sugar cane and has become popular for promoting luminosity and reducing pigmentation, without causing irritation.
Glycolic acid is structural quite small so it easily penetrates the skin which is why it is so effective. It contains properties that help to shed dead skin cells, to reveal the layers of skin beneath which appear bright and reflective. Glycolic acid also promotes collagen production causing to feel firmer and appear line and wrinkle free.
It can be found in an array of skincare products, from liquid toners to exfoliating masks. The point is, whatever your preference, there’s a glycolic acid product out there for you.
What are the benefits of glycolic acid?
Like most acids, glycolic is a skin multitasker. Skincare experts recommends The main function of glycolic acid is to exfoliate the skin. By loosening up dead cells and effectively remove the outermost layer of the skin and encouraging cell turnover to promote a more even skin tone.
It also has has the added bonus of helping to stimulate collagen production, a well-known vital ingredient in the slowing down of ageing. By activating fibroblasts in the dermis, the acid will help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
If you look on the back of a variety of acne serums and anti-spot treatments, you’re more than likely to find glycolic acid listed. It’s risen to skincare stardom because of its ability to flatten even the most superhuman-looking spots and clear pigmentation.
