Glycolic Acid 101: Everything you need to know about this Skincare Superstar

One day you're applying every lotion you can find, and the next you're wondering if you've gone overboard. You know how crazy your skincare journey can get.  Isn't it a complete balancing act?  

You seem to be always after that glow despite having too much of this and not enough of that.  In actuality, your skin is a delicate canvas that flourishes when you combine the beneficial components—those active substances that address everything from bothersome redness to troublesome breakouts.

Let's now discuss exfoliation, the true star of every skincare product line.  Imagine that your skin is like a blank canvas, begging to absorb anything you put in front of it.  However, what if it's blocked with debris?  No chance. 

That's why it's so important to keep those pores spotless.  And my own favorite candidate for the position?  Glycolic Acid.  

Yes, this tiny powerhouse doesn't play around; it gets right in, gets rid of the debris, and lets your pores breathe.  There's more, though!  Do you feel uneven or have some black areas that won't go away?  With its ability to fade hyperpigmentation as if it were no big problem, glycolic acid has your back too.  This is only the beginning of our skincare journey, so stay tuned!

What is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is commonly used in skincare products for its exfoliating properties. It helps with not only uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation but also fine lines, dry skin and dark spots caused by acne. It is sourced from sugarcanes. The acid helps the skin with the cleansing and also hydrates the skin since it is sourced from a water and sugar source (sugar helps with trapping water molecules in the skin).

The glycolic acid essentially encourages your skin to work more quickly. Do you know how dead cells are naturally removed by your skin? These cells can occasionally become lodged in your pores, giving your face a lifeless appearance, a rough texture, or even acne. Your skin normally has a mechanism for releasing those cells on its own, but glycolic acid acts as a helpful ally.

It functions by dissolving the substance that holds those dead cells together; imagine it as removing the glue binding them together. The dead skin simply sloughs off much more easily after that. And the outcome?

Your skin is left cleaner, smoother, and glowing like new again since your pores don't become blocked up.

It's really simply helping your skin do what it's already trying to do, which is to make the whole shedding process go more smoothly and quickly. It's quite neat, isn't it?

Now, since we know what it is, let's have a look at how it works:

How does Glycolic Acid work?

1. Exfoliation

Exfoliation is simply a fancy way of explaining that you are removing the dead skin that is clinging to your face.  You have two options: use a scrubby tool, like a brush or a gritty wash, or use chemicals, such as enzymes or acids.  The entire point?  help clear your pores, smooth things out, and encourage your skin to renew itself more quickly.  When it comes to feeling good, it's all about making your face look even and fresh. It's not only for skin, either—consider how rocks or plants lose their rough parts.

2. Increases Cell turnover

Now, glycolic acid takes over and accelerates the process. Your skin feels softer, seems brighter, and maybe even wrinkles begin to disappear over time as a result of the dead cells being removed, which also makes room for the formation of new ones.

3. Enhances the texture of skin

It can also help lighten dark spots, acne scars, or other uneven areas by removing the old gunk, making you look more even and radiant.

4. Moisturizes your skin

Furthermore, anything that draws water to your skin is referred to as a humectant, which is what glycolic acid is. Thus, maintaining a plump and moisturized skin is just as important as washing it, as this gives it the healthy, dewy look that we all secretly long for.

All in all, this item only intensifies the cleansing, smoothing, and lifelike appearance that your skin is already attempting to achieve.  The important deal, though, is to not overdo it.  Start slowly because if you apply too much too quickly, your skin may get overwhelmed and you may experience unexpected breakouts or dryness.  Additionally, apply sunscreen because it makes your skin slightly more susceptible to the sun.  Your face will appreciate it, I promise.

How to use Glycolic Acid?

Start slow: Use it only a few times a week, perhaps two or three, and choose something mild, like a 5–10% concentration, if you're just getting started.  Your skin can adjust to it without becoming anxious thanks to this.  Try combining it with something like hyaluronic acid to help keep things comfortable and lock that glycolic goodness into your skin.

Cleanse your skin: Rinse your face well to remove any remaining makeup, oil, and debris before you even consider wearing it.  Because moist skin and glycolic acid can lead to irritation, which is something no one wants, make sure your skin is completely dry after using them.

Apply glycolic acid (as toners or serums): You can use serums, toners, or those tiny exfoliating pads when it's time to apply.  Simply apply a small coating of the toner or serum.  A cotton pad is useful for toners, but if you're into saving trees, your fingers will work just as well.  Apply serums with a gentle pat.  However, keep it out of your eyes; the skin there is far too sensitive for this.  

Follow instructions: Read the label because some products are meant to be left on and others should be rinsed off after a while.  Whatever works for you is best, but leave-ons like night serums usually offer better value.

Moisturise: Don't forget to use a moisturizer afterward.  Put on something moisturizing to seal in the moisture and soothe your skin, as glycolic acid can leave it feeling a bit dry or touchy.  Avoid using thick, oily creams; nobody like feeling greasy.

Apply sunscreen: Here, sunscreen is your best friend.  Apply a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 but preferably 50+ every morning, even if you won't be using it during the day, because glycolic acid makes your skin more susceptible to the sun.  It's merely an intelligent defense.

Increase the frequency: You can increase how frequently you apply it once your skin is comfortable with it; if it's working, you might want to use it every other day.  However, take it easy if it becomes irritated or angry with you.  Pay attention to what your skin is telling you!

Things to Remember:

• Do Not Use with Other Strong Actives: Do not use glycolic acid in combination with other strong exfoliants or actives like retinoids or vitamin C at the same time, as this can lead to irritation.

• Don’t Overuse: Overuse can lead to dryness, irritation, or sensitivity. Stick to a consistent but gradual approach, and give your skin time to adjust.

By the slow introduction to skincare, you do your skin a favor by being patient in your journey to better skin. It is important to follow the instructions of your dermatologist as well as the procedure listed in packaging of the product.

Who should use Glycolic Acid?

1. People with uneven or dull skin

This product works wonders if your skin appears uneven or drab.  It removes all of the dead stuff from the top, making you look brighter and more balanced. This is ideal if your complexion has been looking a little drab lately.  And what about those wrinkles or fine lines that are appearing?  By encouraging your skin to produce more collagen, glycolic acid can smooth out your skin and give it a little plumpness.  However, avoid combining it with retinol since it is extremely strong and may cause your face to look irritated.

2. Acne prone and hyperpigmented skin 

Do you have acne?  Your new best friend may be this person.  It reduces breakouts, unclogs pores, and smoothes down rough patches.  Additionally, it lightens the dark blotches and bothersome markings left by old pimples; with consistent usage, even sun damage begins to subside.  The same is true for hyperpigmentation, such as sunspots or those obstinate shadows left by acne.  Over time, it lightens things up and expedites the refresh process.  When you combine it with a sunscreen that contains niacinamide, the brightening effect is amplified.

3. People with Oily or combination skin

Glycolic acid can help if you have oily skin or a strange combination of dry and oily skin.  In addition to preventing clogged pores and controlling oil production, it can also help control sporadic hormonal zits.  To be honest, it's a minor miracle for skin that is clearer.  And if that smooth, velvety feel is all you're after?  It removes the harsh accumulation, leaving your face feeling clean and smooth.

Hold on, though; it's not for everyone.  Avoid using this product if you already have a skin condition that is inflamed, such as eczema, as it may exacerbate it.  And what if you have aggressive pimples and are in the midst of a breakout?  Don't do it.  Exfoliating at that moment could cause more chaos and upset the balance. 

Conclusion 

Okay, let's have a serious conversation to finish this off!  Go easy at first whenever you're experimenting with new products, such as our star, glycolic acid.  Apply a patch test and give your skin some time to adjust to the new products because it is unique and requires some care.  Here, patience is your best ally.  The worst part is that no matter how amazing a product is, it shouldn't be used to improve your self-esteem.  Glycolic acid, and you're already fantastic?  It's merely the icing on the cake and won't make your confidence problems go away.  However, if your style is being hindered by dark spots or uneven skin, this little miracle can definitely help.

People vouch for it; in fact, it's so coveted by many that even celebrities who make a profession from glowing can't get enough of it.  When you use it in conjunction with a strong sunscreen and a moisturizing moisturizer, you'll look your best.  Go for it, and continue to feel confident in yourself!

Recommended Products by Blue Nectar:

AHA Exfoliating Plant Based Glycolic Acid Face Serum (14 herbs, 30ml)

Shubhr Kumkumadi Gel Face Scrub with Plant Based Vitamin E for Skin Radiance & Tan Removal (10 herbs, 50g)

Shubhr Coconut Sunscreen SPF 50 Face Lotion for Sun Protection (18 herbs, 50ml)

Related Articles:

All about Plant Based Actives

References:

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1685/glycolic-acid

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/glycolic-acid-for-skin