What it is:
Glycolic acid (or hydroxyacetic acid) belongs to the family of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), a group of natural chemicals derived from fruits. Glycolic acid itself is derived from sugar cane.
What it does:
Glycolic acid is a natural skin exfoliator due to its high acidity but easy solubity. Glycolic acid goes under the damaged upper layers of skin and loosens the glue-like substance that holds the dead skin cells to the surface, allowing them to peel off. The result is a smoother skin surface, with more even color and texture.
Not only is glycolic acid a natural skin exfoliator, it is also a natural skin moisturizer. In fact, it has the ability to draw moisturizer into the newly-exfoliated skin.
If used in high concentrations for a long time, glycolic acid can reduce wrinkles. It affects the deepest layers of your skin, regenerating collagen and elastin, which make fine lines less obvious.
It also may reduce acne scarring, hyperpigmentation and improve many other skin conditions, such as dry skin conditions. It can also be used for tattoo removal.
Side effects:
Glycolic acid is a strong irritant. It can be corrosive when applied in high concentrations. For this reason, any product that contains glycolic acid at a concentration higher than 10% is considered to be hazardous. Most skin care products do not contain glycolic acid in a concentration higher than 10%. While high concentrations of glycolic acid can be dangerous, concentrations that are too low may be ineffective.
Glycolic acid peels may leave the skin especially sensitive to the sun, so it is recommended to use a sunscreen after exfoliation. Also, after you apply glycolic acid peel, the skin can often appear as if it has been sunburned. This usually lasts for a few days. During this time, it is important not to expose your skin to the sun.
