Why you should include Glycolic Acid in your skincare routine

Also known as the workhorse of exfoliating acids, Glycolic Acid is loved by dermatologists all over for the myriad of benefits it offers. So what is glycolic acid and what does it do? We’re here to break it down for you.

What is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid belongs to the family of alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and is derived from sugar cane. Being the smallest acid molecule, it easily penetrates into skin.

What does Glycolic Acid do?

The basic function of glycolic acid is to exfoliate and it does so by breaking down the bonds that hold dead cells together. This helps to speed up the exfoliation process and reveals newer, brighter skin. If you’re after a youthful glow, glycolic acid should definitely be your BFF.

Read more: This is why Tranexamic Acid will make your skin glow

How does Glycolic Acid work?

Besides exfoliating the skin and speeding up skin cell’s turnover, glycolic acid is also great for reducing fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation.

The process of improving the skin’s turnover naturally stimulates collagen production and this in turns improves the elasticity of the skin.

Glycolic acid is also effective in improving the efficacy of other skincare products as it gets rid of the layer of dead skin that is standing in the way.

Who should use Glycolic Acid?

Good news is that glycolic acid benefits everyone. For younger skin types prone to breakouts, glycolic acid can help reduce breakouts and for the older folks, it’s an excellent ingredient for skin rejuvenation improving wrinkles and brightening skin.

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When should Glycolic Acid be used?

When using any types of acids for the first time, it’s best to start small and then build up the frequency of use. If you notice your skin showing signs of sensitivity or redness after using glycolic acid, it’s a sign to ease off on the product.

For a start you could swap your regular cleanser for a glycolic based formula twice a week and then introduce creams, peels or pads, following their instructions carefully.

What else to know about Glycolic Acid?

If you’re using glycolic acid, it’s important that you use sunscreen daily too, as glycolic acid sensitises skin to UV radiation and increases it damaging effect.

Read more: Everything you wanted to know about Azelaic Acid right here

Products we love:

Rose Ginseng Ginseng-Infused Brightening Facial Toner – Not only does this toner give dull skin a new lease of life, it also tightens pores while smoothening and refining the appearance of roughened skin.

Sleep Mode Skin Renewing & Smoothening Gel – Perfect for non-sensitive, normal to oily and blemished skin types, this gel-like formula increases the rate of exfoliation, clears up skin problems and reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles. All while you’re asleep!

SW1 Royal Jelly Essence – This ultra-light watery essence provides skin with long lasting hydration and excels in calming skin irritations and for overall skin rejuvenation.