Hydroxyacetic acid; As glycolic acid is also known, it is a natural chemical compound that has the power to regenerate the skin, preventing the dreaded premature aging, which is why it is widely used in cosmetic products for the face and other areas of the body.
It is necessary to apply treatments that contribute to cell renewal, since in this way, external aggressions can be dealt with.
In this post we will explain the benefits of glycolic acid and what is the correct way to use it. Let us begin!
What is the glicolic acid?
- Formula: C₂H₄O₃
- Molar mass: 76.05 g/mol
- IUPAC name: 2-Hydroxyethanoic acid
- Density: 1.49 g/cm³
- Melting point: 75°C
- Acidity: 3.83 pK a
- Soluble in: Water, Acetic acid, Acetone, Ethyl ethanoate
It is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) of natural origin, it is extracted from sugar cane , grapes or beet extracts . It acts on the deepest surface of the skin.
It has the power to restore the skin, so it can significantly reduce early wrinkles, blemishes, dry skin. In addition, it serves as an excellent facial illuminator.
There are products with glycolic acid in different dosages, which range between 4% and 20%. Depending on your level, it can be ideal as an exfoliant , moisturizer or regenerator.
Glycolic Acid is applied in dermocosmetics to treat acne, hyperpigmentation, photoaging and other skin conditions.
Glycolic Acid Properties
Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) has therapeutic properties that make it useful in facial or body peels. Contributes to the beauty and health of the skin.
Here are the main properties:
- Serves as a gentle exfoliant.
- It is a skin regenerator, which helps to reduce expression lines.
- It is antioxidant.
- Combat enlarged pores.
- It works as a highlighter.
- Provides elasticity and firmness to the skin.
- Tones the skin tone.
Health benefits of glycolic acid
The AHA helps to regenerate the skin, while combating oily skin and other skin conditions. In fact, there are products formulated with glycolic acid that combat dry skin, eczema, psoriasis , warts , rough skin, and even rosacea .
Below, we indicate some of the most outstanding benefits of glycolic acid for the health and beauty of the skin.
antiaging
The AHA has anti-aging and antioxidant properties, which is why it is used in dermocosmetics in hundreds of products to counteract wrinkles, expression lines and even age spots.
According to certain investigative studies, it is necessary to take into account the quality of products that contain glycolic acid, in this way, it will be more or less effective to counteract the effects of photoaging.
scrub
Glycolic acid is used in skincare products in which the lowest concentration (4%) is used as a light exfoliant , that is, it exfoliates without damaging or irritating the skin.
It is ideal for people with ultra-sensitive skin, as indicated by a study on the “Safety and Efficacy of Facial Peeling with Glycolic Acid in Indian Women with Melasma.”
Leaves a peeling effect, which improves the structure of the horny layer by stimulating cell renewal. This in turn, allows the skin to look flawless, free of blackheads or blemishes.
Improves the skin’s hydration level
The AHA has the ability to stimulate the synthesis of hyaluronic acid in the epidermis and dermis, thus significantly improving the level of skin hydration, as indicated by an article published in the Wiley Online Library “Lactic and lactobionic acids as typically moisturizing compounds”
It is ideal for dry and combination skin . Helps hydrate skin without leaving it looking heavy or greasy. It is used in different concentrations in facial serums , creams and moisturizers.
Tones the facial skin
This product of natural origin has illuminating properties , so it deals with solar or age hyperpigmentation.
In addition, it reduces the marks caused by acne, as indicated by a study published by the Journal of Dermatology , which pointed out that the daily use of Glycolic Acid can reduce scars caused by pimples, blackheads or acne.
The shape of its molecules allows them to penetrate the deep layers of the skin, thus providing an illuminating effect, attenuating hyperpigmentation in a few weeks. Of course, it is necessary to combine this treatment with sunscreen during the day.
How should glycolic acid be used?
Glycolic acid is used in different skin care products, including serums, creams, scrubs, cleansing wipes, toners, and much more. It must be applied as indicated in the prospectus of each product.
In general, AHAs should be used on clean, dry skin , so it should be administered after facial cleansing.
On the other hand, a sunscreen is recommended every day in which the treatment is carried out, since the skin becomes sensitive to the sun’s rays.
It is recommended at night, just before bed . Its application should be avoided around the eyes, since this area is very sensitive.
Glycolic Acid Precautions and Contraindications
Experts point out that glycolic acid should be used in small concentrations to perceive how the skin reacts and then apply in higher concentrations.
Below, we mention some precautions and contraindicants in its use:
- It can cause redness on the skinfor twenty-four hours. If after that time the symptoms persist, its application should be suspended and consult a dermatologist.
- Dark skin types are at greater risk of darkening after exfoliation. It’s a side effect.
- It is possible that when applying it you will experience a slight burning.
- Sunscreen greater than 30 FPS should be used.
In conclusion, glycolic acid is a chemical component of natural origin that gives the skin outstanding benefits. Helps maintain a youthful appearance, free of wrinkles, blemishes, and blemishes , but should be administered with caution. If in doubt, a dermatologist should be consulted
