Netdoctor participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. Glycolic acid, along with other AHAs, increase your skin’s sensitivity to harmful UV rays. How to Properly Use Essential Oils to Destress. The latter generally need to be washed off, whereas serums and creams are usually left on the skin. Chemical production is much cheaper than looking for natural sources, explains Dr Preema Vig, aesthetic doctor, former GP and owner of Dr Preema London Clinic. Thanks to its myriad benefits (brightening! If you are looking to simplify your skincare routine with a product that provides all the benefits of minimized pores, younger-looking skin and a clear, radiant complexion, keep your eyes peeled (pun intended) for glycolic acid. ‘Overall it's actually very safe – so much so that we can use this active ingredient during pregnancy.’, Another benefit of glycolic acid is that it is immediately neutralised upon contact with water, she continues. Originally derived from sugar or sugar cane, glycolic acid is usually made in a lab because it’s simple to synthesise. “Glycolic acid works every time you use it, and it begins to work immediately.” Dr. Krant advises to only use products with a maximum concentration of 10% at home. Key benefits are: Reduces fine lines and wrinkles Minimizes appearance of pores Fights acne Removes dead skin cells Evens skin tone Glycolic acid is a naturally occurring ingredient found in many skincare products that belongs to the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family – a group of active compounds found in foods. ‘Higher strengths and lower pHs tend to need to be neutralised and have much higher risk of skin irritation,’ he explains. It’s also important to take extra measures to protect yourself from sun damage. “Glycolic acid helps to separate the connections between keratinocytes [skin cells] in the outer layers of skin without rough, mechanical exfoliation techniques and promotes exfoliation,” Dr. Krant says. “Low percentage washes can be used daily without issue in those with oily skin, whereas medical grade peels may only be tolerated once a month.”, Although it’s uncommon, the worst side effects that people can experience is due to uncareful use of higher percentage glycolic acid products. The main function of glycolic acid is to exfoliate the skin and break down dead skin cells. Glycolic acid exfoliates the outermost dead layer of the dermis and increases luminosity by improving the reflection of light on the skin.’. Since the molecule is so small, it can penetrate the top layer of your skin (the epidermis) to act on the cells below – reducing the appearance of scarring and signs of premature ageing, including fine lines and wrinkles. ‘I tend to prefer products that contain a blend of lower strength AHAs than a single high strength AHA as the risk of irritation and redness with glycolic acid is higher than some of the others,’ he continues. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io, How salicylic acid can help combat breakouts, The new cult skincare product you need to try, 6 tips to stop runner’s acne in its tracks, Everything you need to know about squalane, NetDoctor, part of the Hearst UK wellbeing network. “I think people underestimate how much glycolic acid does,” says Dr. Sapna Palep, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Spring Street Dermatology in NYC. People usually don’t experience side effects from using glycolic acid, but for “those with dry or sensitive skin, it can be irritating,” says Dr. Mudgil. Beauty experts tout glycolic acid as an all-in-one solution skincare solution. Smoothing! This miraculous ingredient is an all-in-one solution to your greatest skin troubles from aging to acne— glycolic acid takes care of it all. Beauty experts tout glycolic acid as an all-in-one solution skincare solution. If using a serum or cream containing glycolic acid, apply it after cleansing in the morning. The benefits and side effects of the trendy skincare ingredient. “The use really depends on the exact preparation.”, Regardless of whatever product you choose, you will see benefits from any concentration percentage, says Dr. Krant. ‘Using an excellent sunscreen is an absolute must, otherwise sun damage will negate any gains made and cause further damage to your skin,’ adds Dr Vig. According to Dr. Jessica Krant, a board-certified dermatologist of the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, this molecule naturally occurs in sugar cane and fruits. Firstly, look for products that contain ‘pharmaceutical grade’ ingredients, says Dr Vig, because the purity and effectiveness are verified by lab analysis. It’s one ingredient that you should definitely consider adding to your skincare playbook. Hailed as a miracle ingredient, glycolic acid has earned its reputation as one of the most versatile skincare acids around. ‘It can be applied in creams, cleansers, toners or serums at weaker strengths, or in stronger forms as home peels – either as a fluid, in a masque form or on peel pads,’ Dr Jack explains. Some other AHAs you may be familiar with include lactic acid and citrus acid. [Patients] come to me like, ‘I hate these blackheads on my nose, and my pores feel so big.’ I put them on glycolic right away.” Key benefits are: Another bonus: glycolic acid is safe for new mothers to use, says Dr. Palep. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Night Serum, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. ‘Glycolic acid, like other AHAs, also helps to reduce the pH of the skin surface, which can have beneficial effects on the skin microbiome – optimising the good bacterial flora on the skin surface.’. ‘Although we judge product efficacy on the percentage of glycolic acid in the product, modern formulating has moved away from that,’ she explains. Are there any side effects of glycolic acid? Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. 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