Glycolic acid exfoliates skin, improves texture, reduces acne, and fades hyperpigmentation, but requires sun protection due to sensitivity.
Glycolic acid is a synthetically derived alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) widely used in skincare for its exfoliating, anti-acne, and hyperpigmentation-reducing properties. It works by disrupting the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and revealing brighter, smoother skin. While effective, glycolic acid can cause skin irritation, dryness, and increased sun sensitivity, necessitating careful usage and diligent sun protection. Concentrations vary across products, and individual tolerance should be considered. Although generally well-tolerated, rare cases can induce paradoxical hyperpigmentation, especially within darker skin tones.
Key Information
Outside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
Typically found in skincare products at concentrations ranging from 5% to 70%. Daily usage depends on product formulation and individual tolerance.
Source Type
synthetic
Production Process
Glycolic acid is typically produced by reacting chloroacetic acid with sodium hydroxide, followed by acidification.
Use Type
Outside BodyPotential Benefits
Acne treatment reduces or eliminates acne lesions by addressing underlying causes like excess sebum, bacterial infection, inflammation, and clogged follicles. Treatment options include topical applications, oral medications, and lifestyle modifications.
Pore refinement minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores by clearing debris and promoting cell turnover, resulting in smoother skin texture. Key ingredients like retinoids and salicylic acid regulate sebum production and exfoliate the skin.
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells to improve skin texture, tone, and radiance. It also unclogs pores, prevents acne, and boosts collagen production.
Hyperpigmentation reduction lightens or evens out skin tone in areas with excessive melanin production by targeting melanin synthesis, transfer, or removal. Treatments involve topical agents, procedures, and sun protection.
Bakuchiol reduces acne by decreasing inflammation, inhibiting acne-causing bacteria, and preventing clogged pores. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties help improve skin clarity and reduce acne lesions.
Mandelic acid exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells and revealing smoother, more radiant skin. This reduces roughness and improves overall skin texture.
Glycolic acid stimulates collagen production through exfoliation and triggering a wound-healing response, improving skin firmness and elasticity. This process can potentially reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Possible Side Effects
Skin irritation involves symptoms like redness, itching, and rashes due to contact with irritants, allergens, or environmental factors. Severity varies based on the cause, individual sensitivity, and affected area; persistent cases may lead to secondary infections.
Dryness refers to a reduction in moisture content in tissues or organs, leading to symptoms like dry skin, mouth, or eyes. It can be caused by various factors, including environmental conditions, medical conditions, or medications.
Sun sensitivity is an increased susceptibility to UV radiation, leading to exaggerated sunburn reactions and potential long-term skin damage. It can be triggered by medications, medical conditions, or topical products.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a darkening of the skin caused by inflammation from glycolic acid use, especially common in individuals with darker skin tones. It can be temporary or persistent due to overproduction of melanin.
Scientific Evidence
Van Scott, E. J., & Yu, R. J. (1974). Alpha hydroxy acids for the treatment of dry skin and ichthyosis. Cutis, 13(4), 585-590. | Green BA, Yu RJ, Van Scott EJ. Clinical and cosmeceutical uses of alpha-hydroxyacids. Clin Dermatol. 1996 Jan-Feb;14(1):17-21. | Topical glycolic acid modulates genes associated with inflammation and epidermal differentiation in human skin. J Dermatol Sci. 2014 Jul;75(1):71-3.
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