Glycolic acid: Benefits, uses and side effects
Help remove dead skin cells and manage sun damage with this key ingredient.
Looking to add a new skin care ingredient to your repertoire? One that may help with exfoliation? You may want to consider glycolic acid, the smallest of the alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Let's dive into how it works and what it can do for skin.
En este artículo:
What is glycolic acid and what does it do?
This AHA is derived from sugarcane and is found in many over-the-counter skin care products.1 Glycolic acid has the smallest molecular weight of all of the AHAs, and it penetrates the skin easily.2
Glycolic acid works by weakening the bonds between cells in the outermost layers of the skin, a big step toward exfoliation.3 It can also increase hyaluronic acid levels in the outer layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving the quality of elastic fibers.4 This versatile little acid can also inhibit the synthesis of melanin in the skin, which can fight aging caused by the sun.5,6
Glycolic acid is available in over-the-counter products, including creams gels and toners, and as chemical peels administered by a dermatologist or health care provider.7 Use of products containing glycolic acid can help manage conditions like acne, acne scars, dark spots, hyperpigmentation, photodamage from the sun and seborrhea, which causes scaly patches.8 Talk to your health care provider about any concerning skin lesions.
How to use glycolic acid
Speak to your doctor or dermatologist before introducing glycolic acid to your skin care routine. And be sure to follow the instructions on your chosen product. There are some general ways glycolic acid can be used.
- Apply the product to clean skin using small circular motions. Do this for 30 seconds, and then wash off with lukewarm - but not hot - water. Moisturize immediately after to help keep exfoliated skin hydrated.9
- Test a small amount of a product containing glycolic acid. If the skin tolerates it, slowly increase use while following packaging instructions.10 If you are unsure about where to begin or if you have an adverse reaction, contact your health care provider.11
- Use of AHAs increases sensitivity of the skin to UV light, which can cause a sunburn. When using products containing AHA, it's a good idea to apply them at night.
- When using AHAs, avoid spending time in direct sunlight, and regularly apply sunscreen with a sun-protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
Glycolic acid and retinol
Retinoids are a class of powerful compounds that help unclog pores. They can also spur faster turnover of surface skin cells and increase collagen production.12,13 Retinol is a type of retinoid, and it helps improve uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation and skin texture.
A recent study found that a cream containing retinol, lactose and glycolic acid significantly improved the condition of photodamaged skin.14 A combination of the two compounds has also been found to significantly reduce acne scars.15 Speak to your health care provider before combining different topical products like these.
Glycolic acid side effects
Always check the product label for safety information and usage directions. Common side effects reported after the use of glycolic acid peels include reddening; a stinging sensation or sensation of pulling of facial skin; mild burning; and temporary post-inflammatory dark spots.16 In rare cases, the use of glycolic acid can cause a flare-up of pimples, persistent redness and a loss of pigmentation in the skin.17
Because glycolic acid makes skin more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light, try to use it at night and in conjunction with sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. If you have symptoms that have persisted for more than a few days or if your side effects are severe, stop using the product and contact your health care provider.
Is it OK to use glycolic acid every day?
It depends on the skin and type of product. If you have questions about frequency, talk to a health care provider or dermatologist.
Does glycolic acid remove dark spots?
Glycolic acid can help remove the appearance of dark spots by exfoliating the skin, increasing collagen production and suppressing the synthesis of melanin in the skin.18
Can glycolic acid remove tan?
No. Glycolic acid makes the skin more photosensitive, which can increase the risk of burning if skin is exposed to sunlight or other types of UV light. However, it likely does not remove pre-existing, light-induced pigmentation.19 Because it exfoliates the top layer of skin, the compound is sometimes used in products marketed for removal of artificial tans.
Este contenido es solo para fines informativos y no constituye un asesoramiento médico. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.
