When the skin appears dull, is rough or has uneven pigmentation, then exfoliation can help restore a smoother, brighter appearance. Glycolic acid is one of the ingredients that has become popular for this use. The benefits of its exfoliating effect on dead cells and enhancing the texture and tone of the skin make it popular in skincare products.
Unlike hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid works primarily as an exfoliant. If applied properly in a skin care regimen, it could be beneficial to revitalize and brighten the skin without any physical scrubbing.
Glycolic Acid – What Is It?
Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that comes from sugarcane. It is a relatively small molecule, thus can penetrate the skin very well, and also detach the dead skin cells from each other.
As these dead cells are scraped away, skin below the surface will be revealed, which looks newer. Glycolic acid is often used for skin concerns like dullness, irregular texture, dark spots, and uneven skin tone due to this exfoliating activity.
Because it is an active exfoliating ingredient, however, using more glycolic acid does not necessarily mean better results. The frequency and concentration should be suitable for your skin.
How Does Glycolic Acid Work on Skin?
As the skin naturally exfoliates, dead cells accumulate on the skin’s surface. Excessive buildup will make the complexion appear on the dull side and will create an uneven texture.
Glycolic acid softens these dead skin cells, allowing them to be exfoliated more easily. This can help to smooth and rejuvenate the skin’s texture with regular application.
This is also why glycolic acid for skin is often used in facial care regimens that aim at exfoliation, brightening and skin evenness.
Glycolic Acid Benefits for Skin
Helps Remove Dead Skin Cells
Glycolic acid’s main function is to exfoliate. It can help to exfoliate away dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, which can make the skin appear smoother.
It is a chemical scrub and it’s not dependent on rubbing against the skin, unlike a physical scrub can be used in other skin care routines.
Improves the Appearance of Dull Skin
When the dead skin cells accumulate, it can give your skin a dull or tired look. Consistent yet controlled exfoliation can help set off a more fresh and shiny look to dull skin.
That’s why glycolic acid is a popular ingredient in skin care formulations designed to make the skin brighter.
Helps with an even skin tone
The texture of the complexion may appear uneven if there are dark areas and uneven pigmentation. Glycolic acid may help skin renewal and exfoliation, which can help improve skin tone.
It can be applied to treat certain pigmentation issues like dark spots, post-acne marks and pigmentation irregularities, but if you are suffering from consistent pigmentation issues, you should seek professional advice as this may require further assessment.
Smooth Rough Texture
If your skin is rough or bumpy, the dead skin cells are likely to be responsible for this issue. With continued use, glycolic acid can exfoliate this accumulation and result in softer, smoother skin.
Applicability: Can be applied to the body.
Glycolic acid is not just for facial skin care! Can be applied to body care for skin roughness, discoloration, dark spots and parts of the body, like elbows, knees and knuckles.
For instance, Trego Skin Brightening & Lightening Toner is a formula with glycolic acid, tartaric acid and is used for all dullness, uneven tone, dark patches and rough body texture.
How to Use Glycolic Acid in Your Routine?
Glycolic acid should be added slowly to the skincare routine, especially if you’ve never used an exfoliating acid before.
Apply glycolic acid product after cleaning, following manufacturer’s directions. Apply with a moisturizer to smooth and maintain comfort and moisture in the skin.
Exfoliation can cause skin to be more sensitive to sunlight, so it is important to apply sunscreen during the day. Don’t use several other strong exfoliating products together with glycolic acid right away without knowing how your skin will respond.
If you are new to using the product, it is better to start with a lower concentration and apply it less often as opposed to using a strong product daily.
Should You Use a Glycolic Acid Toner?
Glycolic acid toner can be a good option to add chemical exfoliation to a skincare regimen. Glycolic acid toners can help exfoliate the dead cells and address issues like dullness and skin texture.
Trego has 2 glycolic acid toners for different levels of concentration: 5% and 7%.
But there’s no guarantee that a greater percentage will result in better outcomes. Tolerance, frequency of use and the rest of your routine are important.
Who is Glycolic Acid For?
Glycolic acid could be beneficial to anyone who has a problem with:
- Dull-looking skin
- Uneven skin tone
- Rough texture
- Dark spots
- Post-acne marks
- Body pigmentation
- Rough elbows and knees
It is advisable for people with sensitive or easily irritated skin to bring it out slowly. If the skin is already damaged, peeling or irritated, it might be advisable to use gentle cleansing and barrier support before attempting to exfoliate with an acid.
Glycolic Acid vs Salicylic Acid
Both are acids that exfoliate but they act differently.
Glycolic acid is one of the most popular AHAs and mainly affects the surface of the skin, it is usually used in situations relating to dullness, uneven texture, and pigmentation.
Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble BHA that is especially effective on clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and oily acne-prone skin.
Depending on the main concern one can choose among them. Glycolic acid might work better for texture and brightness, while salicylic acid may work better for pore congestion and acne.
Final Thoughts
Glycolic acid is an all-purpose exfoliating agent that can help brighten the appearance of dullness, smooth rough skin, even out skin tone and reduce pigmentation. If applied appropriately, it can be a useful ingredient in the skin care and body care regimen.
The secret is to not exfoliate too much. Use a suitable concentration, add it slowly, apply moisture frequently and never forget the sunscreen when you are outdoors during the day!
