What is glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (or AHA), derived from sugar cane. It’s the simplest in structure of all the AHAs and the smallest. Glycolic acid’s small molecular weight makes it easier for it to efficiently penetrate the skin.
How does glycolic acid work?
Glycolic acid’s benefits are many. It’s a powerful exfoliant, shedding dead skin cells and increasing cell turnover to reveal the brighter and newer layer beneath. It does this by loosening the bonds of the outermost layer of skin. This allows for dead cells on the skin’s surface to slough away.
Glycolic acid deeply penetrates the skin. Once in the dermis, it stimulates collagen production, making the skin firmer and tighter and minimizing fine lines and wrinkles.
Glycolic acid also helps clear pores, correct uneven skin tone, treat breakouts, and fade dark spots for an overall youthful look.
How do I use glycolic acid in my skincare routine?
Since glycolic acid is an exfoliant, it’s best to add it to your routine before moisturizing. And, due to its powerful exfoliation, it’s best to start small when first using. We suggest beginning with Perfect Glycolic Cleanser followed by Perfect Glycolic Treatment 15%. Once your skin has acclimated to the 15% strength, Perfect Glycolic Treatment 25% will provide even greater efficacy and results.
Which skin types benefit from glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid is great for all skin types. As an example, oily skin can clog the pores with debris, making glycolic acid the perfect exfoliator to clear out those pores.
People with dry or sensitive skin may initially experience a degree of irritation when using glycolic acid which is why we recommend starting out with Perfect Glycolic Treatment 15%.
Can I use glycolic acid with other active skincare ingredients?
The short answer is yes - glycolic acid can be used alongside other popular skincare ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and retinol. It also works very well when paired with other brighteners such as salicylic and lactic acids as in our Blemish Control Pads.
Is glycolic acid good for acne-prone skin?
Yes! Glycolic acid is great for acne-prone skin. Because of its powerful exfoliating properties, it can clear out pores and dead skin cells, which cause whiteheads, blackheads and chronic acne. Glycolic acid removes the buildup and clears pores to prevent further breakouts.
Does using glycolic acid have any negative effects?
As stated above, your skin may take a little time to acclimate to glycolic acid. To avoid irritation, we recommend starting with Perfect Glycolic Treatment 15% and then stepping-up to 25%.
Be sure to follow Revercel on Instagram and Facebook for more skincare tips. And, don’t forget to shop Perfect Glycolic Cleanser, Perfect Glycolic Treatments 15% & 25% and Blemish Control Pads to achieve brighter, blemish-free skin.