Glycolic acid | effective skincare treatment

Glycolic acid is one of the most researched forms of alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and is effective in treating fine lines, acne, blackheads, scarring, pigmentation, and dull or oily skin.

Derived from sugar cane, Glycolic Acid (C₂H₄O₃) is colourless, odourless and water soluble. It also has the smallest molecules of all the AHAs, allowing it to penetrate the skin more easily and deeply.

How it works

Glycolic acid works by dissolving the glue between cells, sloughing away dead skin cells and increasing the production of collagen and elastin.

When sebum and other substances that bind cells together are dissolved, dead cells are sloughed away and blocked pores and blackheads are cleared, revealing smoother, brighter skin.

Removing surface grime and dead cells that form a barrier on the skin also allows further skincare products to penetrate more deeply into the epidermis.

Benefits of glycolic acid on the skin

Effective acne treatment – especially when acne is caused by blockages of sebum and dead skin cells.

Minimises pores – with regular use of glycolic acid, pores are kept clear of blockages and their size is reduced.

Decreases acne scarring – increases the skin’s production of collagen and elastin which helps to resurface scar tissue to reveal newer, brighter skin.

Reduces fine lines / signs of premature aging – increases cell turnover to reveal a younger, healthier-looking complexion.

Reduces hyperpigmentation – helps break apart and remove damaged cells, fade dark spots and expose the healthier layer of skin beneath.

Rejuvenates nail – removes surface damage of finger and toe nails to reveal a healthy, lustrous shine.

Risks

• Glycolic acid is an active substance so if not used correctly, can lead to irritation and damage.
• Concentrations of glycolic acid in over-the-counter skincare products should be below 10%.
• Sunscreen should always be applied when using any form of AHAs to avoid pigmentation.

Less is more

A daily-use skincare product with a milder concentration of glycolic acid can provide the same benefits as a peel with a higher concentration, without the risk of irritating side effects.

Buy the ingredient to add to your formulas

GLYPURE 70 (GLYCOLIC ACID)

Recommended in skincare formulations such as serums, lotions, moisturizers, exfoliants, peels, cleansers and toners. Also in hair care products, including shampoos, conditioners, nail polishes, nail conditioners and cuticle conditioners.

Buy our Glycolic Acid Peel and relabel as your own

10% AHA GLYCOLIC ACID PEEL

Rejuvenates and nourishes skin, smooths fine lines. Contains 10% glycolic acid. Apply evenly to face and massage into skin. Leave on for 5 minutes, rinse thoroughly.

Images courtesy of www.drdanabeauty.com; www.kaviskin.com