• Glycolic acid is a colorless, odorless alpha-hydroxy-acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane. It's a type of chemical exfoliant that dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be wiped away easily, revealing smooth, younger skin below.
• Studies show that Glycolic Acid skincare assists with boosting collagen production, which is brilliant for plumping up the skin. Collagen is a vital structural protein, helping the skin tissue remain firm and resist wrinkling. At low strengths, glycolic acid is the key ingredient to look out for when it comes to shopping anti-aging moisturizers or face masks, ideal for plumping, smoothing and refreshing your complexion:
• It reacts with the top layer of skin, breaking it down by dissolving sebum and other substances that bind cells together.
• Made up of small molecules, it is able to penetrate the skin deeply and easily. This makes it most effective for treating fine lines, acne, blackheads, dullness, oiliness and uneven texture.
• Dead skin cells are sloughed off revealing smoother, brighter, younger looking skin.

• You’ll find Glycolic Acid in many chemical peels due to high percentages being very effective for skin treatments (if done safely and properly!). Its even safe enough to use on sensitive skins.
• Glycolic Acid can be used in our daily skincare products, without causing any irritation. This is particularly popular with Glycolic Acid for the face, facial washes and cleansers, bringing along rejuvenating benefits from your first step of your cleansing routine
• Derived from plants – such as sugar cane, pineapple and sugar beets- its botanical properties help to treat skin conditions such as Psoriasis, Melasma and Seborrheic keratosis
• Glycolic Acid is the holy grail for exfoliation, effectively removing the outermost layer of dead cells from the complexion, revealing brighter, fresher skin.
• Products that contain Glycolic Acid are used often to treat scarring, skin discoloration and signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. If you suffer from dull, pigmented or aging skin, look to invest in a once a week exfoliating treatment or an at-home peel product infused with Glycolic Acid.
• It can transfer water molecules from the air into the skin tissue, replenishing any lost moisture. This makes it an effective ingredient in moisturizers when used at low strengths.

Glycolic acid is available in several forms, including over-the-counter and prescription treatments. These include:

• face washes
• lotions
• peels
• serums
• skin care pads

• Glycolic acid isn’t for everyone. Some people have reactions to glycolic acid that can include symptoms such as swelling, itching, and burning sensations. Those with dry or sensitive skin types may find glycolic acid is too irritating for their skin.
• In addition to these concerns, some people find they are more sensitive to sun when they use glycolic acid. Using a daily sunscreen can help reduce the sun exposure risks.

In certain cases, however, it’s better to stay away from using glycolic acid.

• If you are or were on any sort of medication for acne, it’s better to stay away from using products that contain glycolic acid
• In case you have recently undergone some kind of treatment for pigmentation, or microdermabrasion, any kind of treatment aimed to remove the top layer of skin, leaving it sensitive, then it’s better to stay away from glycolic acid.
• If you are a frequent user of sunbeds or are out in the sun often, then you probably should be using glycolic acid.
• Even during pregnancy, you are not supposed to use glycolic acid.
• You cannot use it after waxing.
• In case you have acne and have already gone for some kind of treatment such as laser treatment, you need to stay away from glycolic acid.
• The products you use have a certain percentage of glycolic acid and it can be altered from time to time. Hence, its always advised to start from a lower concentration and work your way up.
• Right before you start, it’s also advised to first make sure that it agrees with your skin. For this, take a small portion and apply it near the back of your thumb. If you have a tingling sensation, that’s alright. This just means it’s entering the dermis layers of your skin. However, if your skin turns red and starts itching, then this could mean that you’re allergic to this.