Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane and is part of the AHA ( alpha hydroxy acids ) fruit acids . Its low molecular weight gives it exceptional penetration capacity into the skin, allowing it to exert its exfoliating and regenerating properties. Cosmetic products concentrated in glycolic acid have become essential in the fight against the signs of aging and the general improvement of skin texture.
What are the benefits of glycolic acid?
One of the most impressive characteristics of glycolic acid is its ability to stimulate cell turnover. Over time, skin cells tend to accumulate on the surface, forming the stratum corneum . Glycolic acid works by removing dead cells from this layer, revealing fresh, renewed skin underneath.
It is known for its gentle but effective exfoliating action. This regular exfoliation not only promotes better skin texture, but it can also help reduce the appearance of pores.
In addition to promoting cell renewal, it stimulates the synthesis of collagen, a protein essential for the firmness and elasticity of the skin. Over time, regular use of glycolic acid can help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, providing a more youthful, revitalized appearance.
A glowing complexion is often the result of well-maintained skin and improved texture. Glycolic acid, by eliminating dead cells and promoting cell renewal, contributes to a more luminous and uniform complexion. Age spots caused by sun exposure can also benefit from the action of glycolic acid , which helps fade these imperfections to reveal more even-toned skin.
A notable aspect of glycolic acid is its versatility, suitable for different skin types. However, it is essential to choose products and concentrations adapted to your skin type to avoid any discomfort or irritation. People with sensitive skin should opt for gentler formulations and perhaps start with lower concentrations.
How and when to use glycolic acid?
Although glycolic acid has moisturizing properties, it should be noted that cosmetic products containing this ingredient remain essentially exfoliants. It is therefore imperative to maintain adequate hydration of the skin during its use. Indeed, as an exfoliating agent, glycolic acid carries the risk of drying the skin. To counter this effect, it is recommended to apply a moisturizer appropriate to your skin type after using such treatments.
Night care is a crucial moment to deeply nourish the skin, thus promoting its renewal during sleep. Glycolic acid will therefore find its place in these nighttime rituals because of its ability to eliminate dead cells and encourage the natural process of cellular regeneration.
When included in night care products, glycolic acid works in harmony with the skin's regeneration cycle, maximizing its effectiveness. It is during the night that the skin is most receptive to active ingredients, making glycolic acid a wise choice for those looking to improve their beauty routine .
Gradual Use: If you are new to glycolic acid, start with a lower concentration and gradually increase to allow your skin to adapt.
What ingredient should you combine glycolic acid with?
Glycolic acid can be combined with different ingredients to create synergistic formulations that provide comprehensive skin benefits. Here are some ingredients commonly associated with glycolic acid:
- Hyaluronic Acids : The combination of glycolic acid with hyaluronic acids creates a powerful synergy in skin care. While glycolic acid provides exfoliating properties for increased cell regeneration, hyaluronic acids provide intense hydration, balancing the sometimes drying effects of glycolic acid. This optimal combination ensures renewed and nourished skin, creating harmony between the benefits of exfoliation and hydration, contributing to improved texture and a radiant complexion .
- Vitamin C : Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, helping to neutralize free radicals generated by environmental factors such as sun exposure and pollution. By combining vitamin C with glycolic acid, which promotes cell renewal , we strengthen the skin's ability to regenerate and fight against the signs of aging. Additionally, vitamin C plays a key role in skin lightening. It inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for pigment spots, which makes it a valuable ally in reducing hyperpigmentation. Combined with glycolic acid, which gently exfoliates the surface layer of the skin, this combination helps to fade dark spots and promote a more even complexion. Additionally, vitamin C stimulates the synthesis of collagen , a protein essential for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. Glycolic acid, for its part, exfoliates dead skin cells, thus promoting better penetration of active ingredients, including vitamin C, into the deeper layers of the skin. This synergy reinforces the overall anti-aging effects, contributing to firmer, toned and radiant skin.
- Peptides : Peptides are essential compounds for stimulating collagen production and promoting cell regeneration. They can complement the action of glycolic acid to improve the firmness and elasticity of the skin.
- Aloe vera extract : Aloe vera offers soothing and hydrating properties. Pairing it with glycolic acid can help minimize potential irritation while maintaining skin hydration.
- Ceramides : Ceramides, which strengthen the skin barrier, complement the exfoliating properties of glycolic acid. While glycolic acid promotes cell turnover, ceramides help maintain the integrity of the skin barrier, minimizing moisture loss. This collaboration strengthens the balance between exfoliation and protection, providing regenerated, hydrated and resilient skin.
- Retinol : Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is often used to stimulate cell turnover. By combining it with glycolic acid, you can improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Chamomile: Chamomile extract has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Used with glycolic acid, it can help calm skin after exfoliation.
- Nourishing Oils : Light, non-comedogenic oils, such as argan oil or jojoba oil, can be added to provide additional hydration and help prevent dry skin.
What ingredients should you not mix glycolic acid with?
Although glycolic acid is a beneficial ingredient for many skin types, it can interact negatively with certain other ingredients. It is essential to avoid combining glycolic acid with the following to prevent adverse reactions or excessive irritation:
- Other Strong Exfoliating Acids : Avoid combining glycolic acid with other strong exfoliating acids, such as salicylic acid or lactic acid in high concentrations, as this may lead to excessive irritation.
- Strong Retinoids : Combining glycolic acid with strong retinoids, such as retinaldehyde or tretinoin, may be too irritating to the skin, especially for people with sensitive skin.
- Strongly scented products : Strongly scented products may worsen the sensitivity of skin exposed to glycolic acid. It is best to choose fragrance-free products to minimize the risk of irritation.
- Other Strong Physical Exfoliating Actives : Using scrubs or other strong physical exfoliating actives at the same time as glycolic acid may cause excessive abrasion and increase the risk of irritation.
- Alcoholic toners : Tonics or toning products containing high amounts of alcohol can further dry the skin, and using them together with glycolic acid can cause excessive irritation.
- Highly concentrated anti-aging products : Avoid combining glycolic acid with highly concentrated anti-aging products, as this may result in overstimulation of the skin, especially if it is sensitized.
- Products Containing Benzoyl Peroxide : Combining glycolic acid with products containing benzoyl peroxide may cause chemical instability and potentially cause irritation.
- Stripping or harsh products : Avoid cleansers or masks containing stripping agents or abrasive microbeads, as they can enhance the exfoliating action of glycolic acid and increase the risk of irritation.