Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliator used in a number of popular commercial skin care products. Depending upon the concentration of glycolic acid, these may be products for home use or for use in a dermatologist's office. Typically, this alpha-hydroxy acid is used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, but it may also be used to treat acne or to just keep skin looking fresh.
Function
Glycolic acid is derived from fruit or sugar or may be chemically synthesized. It exfoliates the skin and encourages cell turnover by loosening the bonds that keep dead skin in place, reports Glycolic.org. It is a key ingredient in many cleansers, skin moisturizers and chemical peels and is useful as part of an anti-aging skin care regimen.
Types
While glycolic acid is the same ingredient whether it's in an over-the-counter cleanser or a dermatologist's chemical peel, the concentration differs. Moisturizers and cleansers containing glycolic acid typically use a 5 to 15 percent concentration, according to SmartSkinCare.com. Chemical glycolic acid peels typically use a solution ranging from 20 to 70 percent glycolic acid, and levels up to 50 percent are available for home use. SmartSkinCare.com suggests that peels over 15 percent be done with a doctor's supervision.
Effects
Treatment with glycolic acid has been shown to improve the thickness of skin, increase skin elasticity and collagen production, and reduce the signs of photo aging, or damage caused by sun exposure, reports SmartSkinCare.com. With regular use, glycolic acid can give you a fresher complexion, smooth fine lines and reduce acne, according to GlobalRPH.com. In higher concentrations, like those used in the dermatologist's office, the improvements may be more noticeable.
Considerations
For the most significant results, you should opt for higher-strength glycolic acid peels. These are superficial peels and do not require healing time. Typically, peels will be done every week or two in your dermatologist's office and range from 20 to 70 percent in strength. After a treatment, the skin may be pink and peel slightly, but these effects can be covered with moisturizer or makeup.
Warning
Glycolic acid can cause skin irritation and sun sensitivity. Whether you opt for acid peels or use a moisturizer with glycolic acid, you may find it helpful to start with a weaker concentration and work your way up. Higher concentrations of glycolic acid are more apt to produce redness, stinging and peeling. A mild stinging sensation is normal during stronger acid peels, according to Glycolic.org.
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