Glycolic Acid: What Is It & How Does It Work?
Tori Douglas
Global Digital
4 min read
Come with us as we unpack glycolic acid and its key properties, as well as how to include it in your skincare regimen to achieve overall healthier-looking skin.
Glycolic acid is known and loved by many in the skincare industry. In skincare, you can use glycolic acid for a variety of things. We’ll zoom in on this famed ingredient, its benefits, and how best to use it to achieve your skincare goals.
The simplest answer to, “What does glycolic acid do for skin?” is that it works by dissolving dead skin cells and oils to aid in boosting hydration and the production of collagen.
As a compound, glycolic acid occurs naturally in some fruits, beetroot, and sugarcane. It’s categorised as part of alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), which are quite popular in the beauty industry. Some AHAs that you’ve likely heard of include citric acid, malic acid, and lactic acid.
Although typically found in topical skincare products, glycolic acid for the skin is also evident in daily beauty routines and products as it can effectively address common skin conditions and concerns, including acne or hyperpigmentation.
Glycolic acid can be best described as a chemical exfoliator that dissolves the binding agent between dead skin cells. This results in their effortless removal from the skin’s surface, negating the need for scrubbing to effectively cleanse your skin.
It’s known to absorb deep into the skin because of its relatively small molecular structure compared to other AHAs.
There are several glycolic acid skin benefits that make it a popular addition to skincare products. Here are just five.
Just like hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid is a humectant that attracts and joins water to the skin cells. It boosts the mixture of glycosaminoglycans in the skin, which attracts water molecules.
Nourished and hydrated skin is visibly healthy and more radiant, and glycolic acid is a key ingredient for achieving this.
Exfoliating with face scrubs and sponges can sometimes be harsh and damage the skin. A chemical exfoliant, like glycolic acid, actively works to rid dead skin cells by dissolving what binds the cells together instead of physically removing the structures.
Visible signs of sun damage such as sunspots, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation can be treated with glycolic acid. It’s able to not only reduce the appearance of dark patches but also help protect the skin’s collagen from further sun damage.
Glycolic acid is known to be key in treating acne, particularly comedonal acne, which is caused by pores that are blocked by dead skin cells and oil. Do bear in mind, however, that peels for severe acne should contain around 70% glycolic acid, and getting a personalised consultation is best before proceeding with it.
Over time, skin loses its elasticity and plumpness, making wrinkles and fine lines more prominent. Glycolic acid may help fight these signs of ageing.
It helps to increase levels of another humectant, hyaluronic acid, which makes it a real hydrating powerhouse. Moreover, it’s key in the production of collagen for boosting skin elasticity while improving and maintaining the elastin in skin cells.
Start with small amounts and then gradually increase the number of glycolic acid products to gauge how your skin reacts to it.
A good starting point is a serum such as the Lotus Dream Serum and then proceed to a glycolic acid cleaner or toner. Incorporating a mask or pad once a week can also be an effective active treatment approach.
It’s vital to replenish your skin after using glycolic acid products. If you’re using a serum or cleaner, ensure that you use a daily moisturiser. If you prefer a mask, choose one that promotes moisture and conditioning of your skin as well.
SPF should already be a staple in your daily skincare routine, more so when incorporating a chemical exfoliant because it makes the skin more sensitive.
Your skin type and concerns will guide and determine which glycolic acid product you should choose. For brighter and overall healthy-looking skin, the Lotus Dream Serum is highly recommended. With regular and consistent use, it can fight breakouts and reduce fine lines.
If you want to target certain skin issues, opting for professional chemical skin peels is advised.
With a range of nature-inspired products perfected by science to choose from at fresh, you’re bound to find exactly what your skin needs. From everyday skincare products to more targeted products, find them all when you explore our refreshing variety of products.
Written by Tori Douglas for Fresh. Tori is a NYC-based digital and brand strategist. Tori has worked for various publications and brands such as Kiehl's, The Body Shop, Deux Hommes Magazine, and Elite Daily with her expertise lying in the fashion & beauty space.