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Glycolic acid rightfully bears the title of queen of acids in cosmetics. Convincing evidence of its power is in an article on the Healthy-Food website.
What is glycolic acid
Along with other AHAs, it actively renews the skin by starting the process of cell exfoliation (exfoliation). However, it is glycolic acid that has a couple of features that distinguish it from its colleagues in the AHA group:
- low molecular weight;
- low acidity.
Glycolic acid is an AHA.
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Functions of glycolic acid
Glycolic acid is used in products for different skin types and performs various functions as part of cosmetic formulas:
- cares for oily and problem skin;
- helps in the treatment of acne;
- used to correct post-acne scars;
- used in the care of aging and aging skin;
- is a component of skin-lightening products;
- used in professional peelings.
Benefits of glycolic acid for skin
Glycolic acid is valued for its ability to literally transform the skin in a matter of days, and even faster when used professionally in the salon. Getting into the skin, acid molecules force it to hastily get rid of old cells and acquire new ones. As a result:
- the relief of the skin is leveled;
- post-acne marks and scars are smoothed out;
- pores are narrowed;
- the skin becomes lighter;
- shine appears.
A particularly striking effect is observed in aging and oily skin, which, for various reasons, are characterized by an excessive density of the stratum corneum, and therefore a slow mechanism of cell renewal. It has to be stimulated artificially, and glycolic acid copes with this perfectly.
One of the natural sources of glycolic acid is sugar cane.
Glycolic acid effectively solves the problems of oily skin, working in two directions:
accelerates cell renewal, eliminates the earthy complexion and makes the skin smoother due to exfoliation;
reduces fat content due to the outflow of sebum.
How does glycolic acid affect the skin?
Like all AHA acids, glycolic acid, when it enters the skin, lowers the pH in the stratum corneum, destroys the bonds between the scales, causes peeling and opens the way for the formation of new young cells. Refreshed, the skin looks much younger. After all, cells that have already outlived their age, but remained on the surface, give the face a grayish tint and uneven relief. Dull complexion, roughness, roughness, enlarged pores are typical signs of skin that has not gotten rid of old cells in time.
With age, the process of cell renewal slows down: in young skin, the full cycle of epidermal renewal is 28 days, by the age of 40 it increases to 35-40 days. Then the rate steadily decreases, and by old age the renewal cycle reaches 2-3 months.
In working with aging skin, glycolic acid is valued for its ability to smooth wrinkles, not only from the outside, but also from the inside. This is one of the few acids that renew the dermis: it launches a cascade of protective reactions, as a result of which new collagen and hyaluronic acid are produced, literally “straightening” the skin.
As part of many products for aging skin, glycolic acid promotes the production of collagen, resulting in dermal remodeling.
Glycolic acid has excellent exfoliating properties.
Restrictions on use
When using glycolic acid on the skin, some precautions must be taken.
Sensitive skin
Here’s what you should know about glycolic acid first and foremost: this substance is generally not suitable for people with sensitive skin. Irritation, persistent peeling and redness may appear, rosacea may increase.
If you haven’t fully figured out how sensitive your skin is, start with a low concentration of glycolic acid, gradually increasing it and monitoring the reaction. If redness and tingling persist for a week, discard.
Solar Activity
Glycolic acid at times increases the photosensitivity of the skin and the risk of developing hyperpigmentation. And so much so that the skin that has interacted with glycolic acid should absolutely not be shown outside without high SPF protection, even if the ultraviolet index is not high at the moment.
Cosmetics with glycolic acid should be stopped at least a month before the onset of the sunny season to avoid burns and age spots.
Acne in acute form
If there are rashes and pustules on the face, one should be more careful with acids: the skin becomes thinner, its protective functions weaken, which is fraught with the spread of inflammation. In general, strict hygiene and impeccable cleanliness (disposable napkins instead of towels, fresh pillowcases, etc.) are mandatory conditions during your “romance” with glycolic acid.
Maintain strict hygiene while using glycolic acid products, especially if you have signs of acne.
Glycolic acid in cosmetics
Most often, glycolic acid is present:
- in cleansers and tonicswhere it supports the cell renewal process;
- in day creams for daily gentle care for oily and aging skin;
- in masks: here glycolic acid is often combined with cleansing and moisturizing ingredients;
- in scrubsbecause acid and mechanical exfoliation are often combined for a thorough cleansing and renewal;
- in peels, which contain a safe concentration of glycolic acid for daily use.
Overview of Glycolic Acid Products
For high-quality exfoliation and renewal of skin, especially prone to oiliness, it is worth taking a closer look at some of these products.
Cleansers
Cosmetic products with glycolic acid
| Name | Action | Skin type | Application frequency |
Night peeling Idealia, Vichy | Combines glycolic acid with antioxidants. Gives shine. | any | Once a day, before bed. |
daily deep cleansing gel Normaderm, Vichy where to find? | Clears pores, prevents breakouts. Contains a complex of acids. | oily, problematic | Twice a day, morning and evening. |
Black peeling double action Pure Ritual, Helena Rubinstein | Contains black rice extract & nourishing oils for a deep yet gentle cleansing & renewal. | any | Once a week. |
Care products
Cosmetic products with glycolic acid
| Name of funds | Action | Skin type | Application frequency |
peeling lotion Revitalift Laser x3, L’Oréal [email protected](‘16313’, ‘L’Oreal Paris Ampoules Revitalift Laser x3 peeling effect, with glycolic acid, 7×1.3 ml’) | Smoothes wrinkles, reduces pigmentation, evens out skin texture and tone. | any | Once a day, before bed. |
Cleanser Normaderm 3 in 1, Vichy where to find? | Can be used as a mask and scrub. Contains acids and white clay particles. | oily, problematic | Once a day or as needed. |
Cream-gel for problem skin with the first signs of aging Normaderm Anti-Age, Vichy where to find? | Eliminates oily sheen and promotes collagen synthesis (vitamin C). | oily, problematic age | 1-2 times a day |