How to use glycolic acid?

Often referred to as fruit acid, glycolic acid is a potent active ingredient that is found in many beauty products: from peels to masks, through serums or targeted night creams such as purifying treatments for oily skin, brightening or even anti-wrinkle, body care, shampoos and conditioners, and even toners and cleansing lotions.
Being part of the family of alpha-hydroxy acids (A.H.A.), glycolic acid is derived from fruit sugars (beet, grape, sugarcane, pineapple, etc...). Its low molecular weight (M = 76.05 g/mol) gives it a great ability to penetrate into the deep layers of the skin. On the market, the percentages of A.H.A. in individual products fluctuate between 4% and 10%. Therefore, it is suitable for all skin types, provided that a product suitable for one's skin is chosen. Beyond that, the treatment should be performed by a doctor.

This molecule is particularly valued for its exfoliating virtues. Indeed, glycolic acid reacts by simple contact and without friction with the stratum corneum by weakening the lipid bonds that connect the corneocytes to each other, causing an acceleration of the natural desquamation process and the effective removal of impurities, thus revealing a smoother, more toned, and younger skin underneath. Indeed, this results in a significant improvement in the texture and appearance of the epidermis, due to a stimulation of cellular regeneration and cutaneous microcirculation. The complexion is smoothed and brightened, the skin is purified (regulation of sebum secretion), the size of the pores is refined, and skin irregularities are diminished (acne scars, etc...).

Other effects are also documented: this acid also helps to reduce pigmentation spots by inhibiting the overproduction of melanin, as well as to restore firmness and hydration to the skin, and diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines by stimulating the synthesis of collagen and elastin, which are responsible for skin tone, and hyaluronic acid. These benefits most often depend on the dosages and other active ingredients found in combination in cosmetic products.

Most skin types can benefit from the use of a glycolic acid-based skincare product. It is particularly suitable for dry, normal, combination to oily skin, skin prone to imperfections (enlarged pores, pimples, blackheads), dull, hyperpigmented, rough, and mature skin. However, glycolic acid may not be favorable for some individuals. If you have sensitive skin, these treatments are probably not for you. We strongly advise you to consult a dermatologist before trying it. Indeed, it can trigger allergic reactions as well as irritations. Similarly, individuals with darker skin may have a risk of pigmentation with the use of glycolic acid.

Glycolic acid seamlessly integrates into formulas designed for combination to oily skin as a seborrhea regulator, thus preventing new acne outbreaks, pore blockage, and the formation of blackheads. For dry skin, this ingredient is recommended to increase skin hydration by contributing to the synthesis of hyaluronic acid. Glycolic acid can even help skin with a lot of pigmentation (sunspots, melasma, acne marks), by making them less visible and evening out the complexion. It is also reputed to help skin that appears tired and dull look more radiant, fresher, brighter, and younger. On mature skin, treatments containing glycolic acid are appreciated for their brightening properties, their tightening effect, and their ability to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Moreover, by removing the outer layer of dead cells and promoting cell renewal, it facilitates the absorption of other skincare products into the skin.