Glycolic acid has been used for moisturising, softening and exfoliating the skin for a very long time. It is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) similar in structure to lactic acid and tartaric acid and is extracted from sugar cane for use in over the counter glycolic acid products. Salicylic acid is another similar chemical (it is known as a beta hydroxy acid) and is also used in skin care preparations.

How does glycolic acid work?

Glycolic acid is a small molecules, in fact it is the smallest AHA, which allows it to penetrate the skin easily. It can go under the layer of dead or damaged skin on the surface to deep within the skin where it the binds that hold dead skin cells in place can be found. The acid then breaks these bonds so that the dead skin cells can be easily removed. This is how it works as an exfoliating agent, removing the top layer of dead skin cells to give you a smoother, more youthful looking skin. You can buy over the counter glycolic acid preparations as gels or creams to use for exfoliation. They are often sold in complete packages which include moisturisers and neutralisers as the acid can be drying to the skin. Many acne preparations include glycolic acid because it is such good exfoliator so it excellent for cleaning out the pores.

Glycolic acid chemical peels

A more drastic treatment than exfoliation is to use a chemical peel and glycolic acid chemical peels can be very effective. Chemical peels are applied to the skin to induce blistering which allows the top layer of the skin to peel off. OTC glycolic acid peels are available with a higher concentration of the acid than the exfoliating agents but they can leave you skin red and irritated for a few days after use. It would be a good idea to have one applied by a professional the first time you use one so that you know how your skin will react and what to expect. glycolic acid chemical peels are effective for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving the texture of skin damaged by the sun or from acne.

AHA chemical peels are milder than many other types of peels but may cause some irritation to the skin for a day or two after use. You may also experience dryness or stinging. These effects are not long lasting, they should clear up in a day or two. You should be careful however if you also use a product containing retinol as this can make your skin more sensitive to these types of peels.

Anti-aging preparations containing glycolic acid

Many anti-aging skin preparations include both retinol and glycolic acid as they are both effective in reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. However, as they contain both ingredients some people find their skin is too sensitive and experience soreness or irritation which leaves their skin red. If this happens to you try replacing the preparation with one that contains only retinol or glycolic acid instead of both.

Skin lightening products

For the treatment of small areas of discoloration products containing glycolic acid plus a number of other ingredients such as kojic acid, azelaic acid can be used. They should not be used for large areas, just for small areas that have become dicoloured by sun damage or aging.

Conclusion

Glycolic acid skin care products are among the mildest products for exfoliating and for use as chemical peels but they are very effective. Although they do have some side effects, especially when used in higher concentrations in chemical peels but these should be relatively mild and only last for a short time. Over the counter glycolic acid products are easily available and a good choice to help you achieve a younger, healthier looking skin.