Glycolic acid is a member of the alpha hydroxy acid family. Derived from sugar cane, glycolic acid is used in a variety of proportions--from 10 up to 70 percent--in chemical peels or for daily application. When applied, glycolic acid works to loosen the bonds that hold dead skin cells to the skin, revealing new skin underneath.
Stimulates Collagen Production
Collagen production in the skin gives it elasticity, preventing drooping and wrinkling in the face. However, over time, collagen production slows, which can make the face appear older. Glycolic acid is small in molecular structure, which means it is able to penetrate the outer skin layer--known as the epidermis--when applied to the face to reach the under layer, or the dermis. When it reaches the deeper layers, it stimulates collagen production that can give the skin a younger appearance.
Clears Blemishes
A contributing factor to acne pimples is the buildup of dead skin cells in the pores. Because glycolic acid helps to remove dead skin cells from the face, it is able to "unplug" pores, freeing not only dead skin cells but also oil that builds up as well, helping to clear skin of acne blemishes.
Smooths the Skin
The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the skin and relies on the growth of keratin cells in order to stay smooth. However, dead skin cells can linger on the stratum corneum, and give the skin a dull, dry appearance. By loosening the "glue" that binds these dead cells to the stratum corneum, glycolic acid helps the skin appear much smoother.
Glycolic acid's skin-smoothing properties are useful in the treatment of a number of conditions associated with dead or dry skin cells. These include psoriasis, eczema, forms of keratosis and dry skin in general.
Reduce Dark Spots
Dark spots related to age or excessive sun exposure are the result of excessive melanin production in the skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. Glycolic acid, when applied in the form of a mild-to-medium strength chemical peel, can remove layers of skin where excess melanin production exists, revealing newer skin underneath that has not been damaged by the sun.
Irritation
Because glycolic acid penetrates more deeply into the skin to cause peeling, irritation can be a natural by-product. This can manifest itself in the form of redness, a burning sensation or pain. Although this side effect typically subsides after the skin becomes more adjusted to glycolic acid use, discontinue use if the irritation causes an open sore or severe rash that extends to the neck or does not subside within a few days.
Sun Sensitivity
Glycolic acid application increases cell turnover, revealing new skin underneath dead or damaged skin. This skin tends to be more sensitive to the sun and may be more prone to sunburn. In order to combat this, apply a sunscreen following glycolic acid application in order to further protect yourself against the sun's harmful rays.
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