What Is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic Acid is a naturally occurring substance that belongs to the Alpha Hydroxy Acid group, also known as AHA. Most AHA’s are derived from sugar cane. This Acid is suitable for all skin types, so if you have oily skin, dry skin, or combination skin, you can benefit from using AHA.
What Does It Do For The Face?
Glycolic Acid or AHA works faster because it is the smallest of molecules and therefore penetrates deeper into the skin. It also dissolves easily in water.
1. Glycolic Acid is known for its exfoliating properties. Exfoliation happens when dead cells are dissolved and sloughed away from the top layer of the skin. This sloughing of the dead cells reveals newer made skin cells that are waiting to be exposed.
2. Some studies show that because Glycolic Acid has smaller molecules, it penetrates deeper into the dermis to stimulate collagen production and to reduce wrinkles. Collagen is like little strings under the skin that helps to hold them up; if it begins to weaken, you see fine lines.
3. If you have dry skin, using this Acid will help draw moisture to the skin and increase the hyaluronic acid level in the skin that is generally found in the dermis.
4. It helps to minimize fine lines and wrinkles.
5. It helps to unclog pores and treat acne.
6. It helps to fade hyperpigmentation and help even out skin tone.
How Long Does It Take Glycolic Acid To Work?
Using Alpha Hydroxy Acid on the skin, it might take a while to see its effects. These include the unclogging of pores and sloughing away dead skin. It may take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 weeks to start seeing the results.
With continual use, you will see a significant difference in the appearance of your skin.
Use products such as face wash, toners, serums, face peels, and moisturizers that contain Alpha Hydroxy Acid.
Does Glycolic Acid Lighten Skin?
Yes! Glycolic Acid can help brighten your skin as it removes all the dead skin cells that make your skin look tired and uneven. Removing the dead cells will push newer, fresher skin cells to the surface, revealing beautiful even-toned skin.
* Most importantly, do not forget to use sunscreen to protect your skin.
